El Deafo

"It’s been a banner year for children’s graphic novel memoirs — and the best of the bunch is Cece Bell’s El Deafo. Profoundly deaf after a bout with meningitis, Cece starts first grade with the help of a new hearing device, a Phonic Ear, which is big and clunky and strapped to her chest. The Phonic Ear makes her different, sure, but it also transmits her teacher’s voice directly to her hearing aid, which makes her feel like a superhero: El Deafo! Cece has a tough time connecting with her peers — this is, of course, difficult whether you’re hard of hearing or not. The book portrays some heart-wrenching struggles, but what’s notable is Cece’s authentic positivity throughout the experience. The book is wonderfully detailed about the emotional and practical challenges she faces, and it’s also laugh-out-loud funny at times. (A lip-reading Cece mistakes a student telling her “my grandma may die” for “my grandma makes pies.”) The art is charming — all the characters have bunny faces and ears — and despite its length, it’s a book that a variety of ages can enjoy."