Deaf Ghosts Demystify Middle School — True Biz!

MOLLY’S IN MIDDLE SCHOOL!
“Remember me? I’m Molly! I’m Deaf! The last time you read about me I was in elementary school, but now, I’m in middle school. I’ve learned a lot since I transferred from my Deaf school to a hearing school back in fifth grade. At first, English was very confusing. It was so different than American Sign Language, which is what we used at my Deaf school. However, with help from the Deaf ghosts, I was able to succeed!
“Then, when I was ready to start middle school, everyone said that it would be even more challenging — not just the schoolwork, but with things to do with growing up. Well, spoiler alert, it turns out they were right. But you know me, I’m not a quitter! Read my story to find out how I met the many challenges of middle school, all with the help of Deaf ghosts!”
DEAF GHOSTS SERIES
The author’s vision is to make a difference in the lives of students like Molly through a fictional book series that, on the surface, contains a captivating story, but underneath, conveys a much deeper message. Deaf Ghosts Demystify Middle School — True Biz! is the second book in the Deaf Ghosts series. Each book in this series takes place in a school setting, and all are written for middle grade students, ages 8-12. Books 1 & 2 are ready to read! Books 3 & 4 will be coming out soon!
MEET THE AUTHOR!
This book series was inspired by the author’s twenty-five years of interpreting in mainstream education for students of all ages who identify as being Deaf, deaf, or hard-of-hearing. The purpose of this book is two-fold. It is a work of literary fiction filled with symbolism, which is meant to both entertain and educate. Young people will be fascinated with the Deaf ghosts, the intriguing cast of characters, and will relate to Molly through the overall theme of overcoming challenges. Parents will enjoy reading these books to their children and learning about deafness together. Educators will notice this chapter book exposes readers to a wide variety of challenging vocabulary and figurative language that can be used to support reading goals and promote in-depth discussions on language.
One of the defining moments in the author’s career as an educational interpreter was when a teacher of the deaf revealed her secret for literary success, “Find a book that a student loves that they can connect to emotionally and that challenges their reading level. Once students connect to a character, topic, or story, they are eager and excited to learn!” Hence, the author’s personal passion for developing literacy skills in this special population, coupled with her colleague’s own secret for success, moved her to write this book series!
HOW CAN EDUCATORS AND PARENTS IMPLEMENT THIS TOOL? Classroom teachers: Use this novel for read-aloud time. The whole class will benefit, and what a perfect story to read in the fall as Halloween approaches! For even more practice, team up with different grade levels, and have older students read this book to younger students. Teachers of the deaf, speech language pathologists, special education teachers, and teachers who specialize in instructing multilingual learners: Reinforce what is taking place in the classroom during read-aloud time by using this book when working with students who have vocabulary and language goals. College and university professors: Use this book in programs for educators and sign language interpreters to prepare upcoming professionals with the language challenges Deaf students often face in a mainstream setting. Parents: Searching for a gift for a special occasion — for your child, a teacher, or a special someone? Look no further!