Apple Is My Sign (Sandpiper Houghton Mifflin Books)
What’s inside...
A ten-year-old boy returns to his parents' apple farm for the holidays after his first term at a school for the deaf in Philadelphia.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-12
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Harry felt when he was trying to communicate with people who don't know sign language?
What are some ways you can make friends with someone who is different from you?
What did you learn about sign language and deaf culture from this story?
Why do you think the apple tree was so important to Harry?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book's characters and events. Use the opportunity to discuss the importance of inclusion and understanding diverse cultures and abilities. Share your own experiences related to communication barriers or friendships with people from different backgrounds.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Communication is key
Explanation: The protagonist, Harry, navigates both the hearing and deaf worlds, using American Sign Language and spoken language, demonstrating the importance of effective communication.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of clear communication and understand different methods of expressing themselves, aiding them in better interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of diversity
Explanation: Harry’s experiences in the dual worlds highlight the diversity in ways of living and communicating, promoting an understanding and appreciation of different cultures.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be open and appreciative towards people from different backgrounds and cultures, fostering an inclusive environment at school and in their community.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Adaptability
Explanation: Throughout the book, Harry shows resilience as he adapts to different situations in the hearing and non-hearing communities, demonstrating the ability to thrive amidst change.
Real-World Application: Children learn to adapt to new environments and challenges, building resilience that helps them navigate through various situations in life.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community support
Explanation: Harry receives support from both his family and the deaf community, which is crucial in helping him find his identity and place in both worlds.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the significance of having a supportive network, encouraging them to cherish and seek support from their own family and community.
Example Lesson: Pursuing personal identity
Explanation: The book follows Harry’s journey towards self-discovery and balancing his identity between the hearing and deaf communities, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to explore and embrace their own identities, learning to be confident in who they are and finding their own place in the world.