Books are a wonderful way for coworkers and friends to share experiences, even when we’re miles, states, and countries apart. Hearing about what someone is reading is like taking a 5-minute vacation. Each week, one Piper team member will answer the question, “What are you reading?” and take you on a well-deserved, 5-minute vacation.

This week Shannon is reading El Deafo by Cece Bell.

“…sweet, funny, empowering, and perfect for people of all ages.”

SHANNON SAYS…

Have you ever read a book that, after you finished it, you immediately wanted to send a copy to everyone you knew? That’s how I felt about El Deafo, the fabulous graphic memoir written and illustrated by Cece Bell. About a girl growing up deaf in the mid-1970s, this book is sweet, funny, empowering, and perfect for people of all ages. Read it to find out just why Cece begins to think of herself as a superhero with amazing powers. Then buy it for all your friends.

AMAZON DESCRIPTION

Going to school and making new friends can be tough. But going to school and making new friends while wearing a bulky hearing aid strapped to your chest? That requires superpowers! In this funny, poignant graphic novel memoir, author/illustrator Cece Bell chronicles her hearing loss at a young age and her subsequent experiences with the Phonic Ear, a very powerful—and very awkward—hearing aid.

The Phonic Ear gives Cece the ability to hear—sometimes things she shouldn’t—but also isolates her from her classmates. She really just wants to fit in and find a true friend, someone who appreciates her as she is. After some trouble, she is finally able to harness the power of the Phonic Ear and become “El Deafo, Listener for All.” And more importantly, declare a place for herself in the world and find the friend she’s longed for.

HAVE YOU READ THIS BOOK?

Tell Shannon what you thought in the blog comments below!