When a child is diagnosed with hearing loss, it is overwhelming. The future can feel uncertain and parents might worry whether or not their child will thrive. Harper's real life story allows readers to follow her journey, providing both parents and children who are facing any kind of diagnosis a much-needed dose of encouragement. Through Harper's navigation of hearing loss, kids can imagine what is possible. Understanding and awareness are key to feeling included, and the community around a child with hearing loss is critical. This story shares ways people in a deaf or hard of hearing child's life can better support them. Harper's witty approach to storytelling resonates with young readers and will surely inspire the people who love and support them.
"All the Ways I Hear You" first introduces our young hard of hearing narrator, Sy, and his neat hearing aids. From there, Sy goes on to introduce his diverse group of friends who are deaf, hard of hearing or deafblind and their own hearing technology and communication styles, like cochlear implants, bone anchored hearing systems, communication boards/tablets and sign language. The book also introduces other children in familial and support roles, namely a hearing sibling and a child of deaf adults.
This is the first book written by Stephanie Marrufo, who is Sy's mom. When Sy was diagnosed with hearing loss as a 2-year-old, Stephanie began searching for children's books that featured or included deaf and hard of hearing characters and found this type of resource to be extremely lacking. Once she decided to write her own, she realized the importance of being as inclusive as possible, and following that decision, this unique story came to life.
"All the Ways I Hear You" is beautifully illustrated by Priscila Soares, an artist with hearing loss who wears bilateral bone anchored hearing systems, and mother to a child born deaf who now has cochlear implants. She uses her talents to advocate for people with hearing loss by sharing their stories through her mixed media work.
If you are a d/Deaf or hard of hearing person, the parent or family member of a d/Deaf or hard of hearing child, an educator, a daycare provider, a medical or support professional providing services to d/Deaf and hard of hearing people, a community organization supporting d/Deaf and hard of hearing people, or if you are simply interested in adding inclusive resources to your children's book shelf... This is the book you've been waiting for!
This illustration reimagines the cochlear spiral as part of a natural design, with delicate flowers and leaves growing from its curves. Rendered in a black-and-white 6B pencil style, the drawing combines the elegance of the cochlea’s structure with the simplicity of botanical elements. It offers a subtle and creative interpretation of the inner ear, making it a thoughtful piece for audiologists, teachers and ear health professionals.
This illustration portrays the intricate inner structure of a cochlea, reimagined as a delicate flower. Rendered in black and white with fine 6B pencil strokes, the cochlear spirals form the soft petals, while the central core transforms into the flower’s heart. Adding a subtle vibrancy, a gentle blue aura radiates around the design, symbolizing energy, hearing, and connection. This blend of anatomy and organic beauty offers a thoughtful and artistic perspective, perfect for audiologists and ear health professionals who appreciate the elegance of their work.
This illustration reimagines the eardrum and the three ear bones—the malleus, incus, and stapes—as a whimsical plant. The eardrum serves as the central bloom, with the intricate shapes of the ear bones forming elegant stems. Delicate leaves sprout from the ligaments, creating a harmonious blend of anatomy and nature. The hand-drawn pencil strokes add a raw, organic feel, making it a perfect piece for audiologists or ear medical professionals who appreciate both the science and art of hearing.
A playful black and white illustration that reimagines the inner ear in a fun and whimsical way. This creative piece brings a lighthearted twist to anatomical art, turning the complex structure of the ear into an engaging and imaginative design.
Perfect for adding a touch of charm and curiosity to your space, "Whimsical Ear" invites viewers to appreciate the beauty of the human body through a unique and artistic lens. It's an ideal addition to offices, homes, or any setting that could use a bit of whimsy and wonder.
A symbol of inner transformation and growth. It shows a woman outdoors, observing butterflies emerging from her illuminated womb. This powerful imagery represents the metamorphosis that happens within, highlighting the beauty and strength of personal evolution.
Perfect for those who embrace the journey of self-discovery, this print adds a touch of inspiration and serenity to any space, serving as a gentle reminder of the transformative power we all hold inside.
A heartfelt artwork that explores the unique experience of living with an invisible disability, such as hearing loss. It reflects the feelings of being different and navigating the world in extraordinary ways that others may not see or understand. This poignant piece invites empathy and awareness, celebrating the strength and resilience found in these personal journeys.
Originally painted in pastels and colored pencils on wood, this print brings the artwork's rich textures and colors to life. Printed on museum-quality, thick, durable matte paper, "Extraordinary" is a beautiful addition to any room or office, offering a meaningful accent that brightens the space while sparking thoughtful conversation.
A raw and powerful exploration of the emotional burden that hearing loss can impose. Created from personal experience, this piece reflects the heaviness, the pain, and the isolation that can accompany an invisible disability. While much of the world may not see the struggle, Weight makes the emotional weight of hearing loss visible, showing its true impact on one's mental and physical well-being. The piece was created with pastels and colored pencils on wood, a medium that allows the softness of the materials to contrast with the intense emotion conveyed, offering a deeply personal perspective on the vulnerability and resilience of living with hearing loss. It is a reminder that while the journey through this challenge can feel overwhelming, facing the hard truths is an essential part of healing and finding strength.
This piece visually captures the triumphant moment of a woman leaping over a giant ear, symbolizing her victory over the fears and limitations tied to her hearing loss. Created during a transformative period of self-acceptance, this piece speaks to the power of embracing one’s true self, unapologetically. Through bold and dynamic imagery, the woman’s leap represents breaking free from the constraints of self-doubt and moving toward empowerment and dreams. Painted with acrylics on wood, Conquering offers a vibrant portrayal of overcoming challenges, inviting viewers to reflect on their own strength and ability to rise above obstacles.
You're Not Alone captures the isolation I often feel in social situations because of my hearing loss. In this painting, I depict a woman sitting alone in a chair at a party, with exaggerated, oversized ears that represent the emotional weight and struggle of hearing loss, keeping her separated from the lively energy around her. The title You're Not Alone reflects that many of us with hearing loss experience similar feelings during social events. Through this piece, I want to convey that while hearing loss can feel isolating, it’s a shared experience, and no one with hearing loss is truly alone in their journey.