When I ordered El Deafo by Cece Bell, I didn't realize it is a graphic novel. I usually don't like graphic novels, so I almost returned it. However, so many people have raved about El Deafo that I decided to keep it, and I'm glad I did. The fact that the main character is a rabbit is another potential stumbling block for me in this book, as I generally prefer books with people, but Cece is a pretty human-like bunny. She relays her hopes and struggles with honesty, insight, and humor. Additionally, she teaches readers about the reasons for deafness, the struggles of deaf people, and the different ways deaf people are able to communicate. I laughed at loud at some of her adventures as she learned to lip read, and I completely understood her aversion to American sign language. I'm not sure how effective it is to use graphic novels as read-alouds--has anyone tried it?--but this book would be a great book club title to use in a character or social issues unit. Talking about El Deafo would lead to conversations about empathy, friendship, perceptions and realities, as well as learning differences and disabilities.
On a different reading note, I have to give a shout-out to The End of Your Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe. An incredible reader recommended it to me so strongly that I ordered it that night. A memoir, written to honor a mother's well-lived life, this book is full of great books, wise words, humor, and important insights about how to lead meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Happy reading!
We loved El Deafo and were so excited to meet Cece Bell at the NCTE conference this fall. Have you seen her video? It is so powerful - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cnj5STG0SZo
ReplyDeleteI definitely haven't figured out a way to read graphic novels aloud. My older son (the struggling reader) often wants me to read GNs to him (they're very popular among his classmates and he wants to be up-to-date on the popular books) but it just doesn't work. Maybe someone else will chime in with some brilliant simple solution! If you liked El Deafo, you might try Raina Telgemeier's Smile.
ReplyDeleteLoved this book, too - best of all, it's having the same effect on my students. Wonderful!
ReplyDeleteI've had several students enjoy El Deafo, Melanie & wonder if one could use it as a read aloud-much in it to discuss as a group! Thanks also for the other title!
ReplyDeleteWe have a hearing impaired student and I was able to get a signed copy of El Deafo for her at NCTE. Cece Bell is lovely, and I'm thrilled for her that El Deafo has received so many well-deserved honors. As far as using graphic novels as a read aloud, I haven't tried it. Maybe on a document camera?
ReplyDeleteEl Deafo is very popular at my school. even though we have three copies, there is still a long reserve list for it.
ReplyDeleteBeen meaning to read El Deafo for quite awhile now - I had to return it back to our public library unread as there were so many books I have yet to finish. Hopefully in the next few weeks, I get to find it again. :)
ReplyDeleteI've just ordered this after reading so many great reviews. I'm looking forward to it!
ReplyDeleteHi! Thanks for asking. I am currently reading a great book named "Rich Dad, Poor Dad," which discusses the mentality of different economic classes in such a way that it is challenging to Put the book down. I am enjoying this book so much that I am reading it so fast without caring about any other commitment, even my assignments, for which I am availing the assignment help for nursing students to cope with my academics as well.
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