El Deafo, written by Cece Bell, is an autobiography.
The story begins with Cece as a four-year-old. She enjoys bike rides with her dad, wearing her mum’s make-up, and watching television with her siblings.
Then, Cece contracts meningitis and loses her hearing. She isn’t thrilled when she is fitted with a hearing device because it makes her look different. When she is sent to a special education kindergarten with other deaf kids, Cece is heartbroken because her best friend isn’t with her.
After kindergarten, Cece and her family move to a new city, where she longs for a fresh start. In school, Cece realises how amazing her hearing device can be – for example, she can even hear what teachers talk about.
But some of the children don’t want to be close to her. Fortunately, Cece finds a true friend, Martha, and they play together every day. But one time, while playing a chasing game with Martha, Cece accidentally hurts her eye. Martha blames herself for Cece’s injury and is scared of hurting her again. But in the end, they become even stronger friends.
I have learned not to discriminate against a person with a disability. This is why I recommend that you read this book.
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