About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels like their differences are a barrier to fitting in, or if they are navigating a new medical diagnosis or physical disability. This graphic memoir follows Cece as she navigates school with a Phonic Ear, a bulky hearing aid that makes her feel like an outsider while simultaneously giving her the 'superpower' of hearing her teacher's private conversations. It is a deeply relatable exploration of the awkwardness of childhood and the quest for true friendship. While the story focuses on hearing loss, its emotional core is universal. It touches on the frustration of being treated differently, the fear of losing friends, and the ultimate triumph of finding self-confidence. Cece's journey from feeling 'broken' to embracing her identity as El Deafo is told with humor and warmth. It is perfectly suited for middle-grade readers who are beginning to navigate more complex social dynamics and are learning how to advocate for themselves in a world that doesn't always understand their needs.
