El Deafo by Cece Bell

 

Title:  El Deafo

Genre: Fiction

Author: Cece Bell

Major awards: Newberry Honor

Age group: 3rd-7th

Summary: 

Of all the books I read this semester, this book is by far my favorite. This book is by Cece Bell, an author who has experienced hearing loss. Bell shares her childhood experiences in a series of graphics, from the perspective of her character Cece. Cece refers to herself as "El Deafo."This nickname may seem a bit harsh, but Cece found power in what most may refer to as an insult. Her superhero identity presents itself throughout the novel. I have yet to read a book that targets the Deaf community. The comic like format of this book gives an inside look on Cece's hearing loss journey. We see Cece experience a meningitis diagnosis, doctor visits, bullying, and friendship through illustrations that show her voice. In the end of the book, Cece learns that being different is a superhero power, and the best friend that she makes along the way, is her sidekick. 

Why would I use this book in the classroom: 

As a future educator, I'd use this book in my classroom to raise awareness of the Deaf community. The references to hearing loss in this book, display the reality of what it is like to lose your hearing. Cece's personal outlook on what it is like to be deaf, will resonate with readers. It allows readers to understand the world of someone who has lost their hearing. The book revolves around Cece and her life. Her school experiences will be relatable to students. The visuals in the book bring Cece's world to life, in a way that will resonate with students. The book teaches readers that it's okay to be different, and everyone should be treated with kindness. Cece displays courage and strength that are real life super powers, that anyone can have. Her character is one that I think students will look up to. The illustrations in this book may also be inviting for some students. The images may intrigue students, since there isn't so much text. 

Appropriate grade level:

I think an appropriate grade level for this book is 3rd-7th. Although this a chapter book, the graphics are easy to follow. The dialogue does present high vocabulary, but the conversation bubbles and illustrations can help a reader interpret the idea. Students in this age group will also understand the references in the book. Cece also falls in this age group. Her experiences will be relatable to students. 

Ideas for unit of study to include the book in and how you might use the book in the classroom:

• Language Art: I would use this book to develop visual literacy skills. The graphics in the book will help students learn to interpret hidden meaning, and to make connections to the text.