Show Me a Sign

"Show Me a Sign" transports readers to Martha's Vineyard in 1805, a unique community where many, including protagonist Mary Lambert, are deaf and communicate through sign language. The story explores Mary's grief after her brother's death and the rising tensions between English settlers and the Wampanoag people. A cunning scientist arrives, determined to uncover the "origin" of deafness, leading to Mary becoming a "live specimen" in his unethical pursuit. Written by a deaf author and based on historical context, this book offers a powerful narrative about identity, resilience, and the historical treatment of deaf individuals. It's ideal for readers aged 9-12, sparking discussions on disability, ethics, and cultural heritage.

Mary Lambert has always felt safe and protected on her beloved island of Martha's Vineyard. Her great-great-grandfather was an early English settler and the first deaf islander. Now, in 1805, over a hundred years later, many people there -- including Mary -- are deaf, and nearly everyone can communicate in sign language. Mary has never felt isolated. She is proud of her lineage. But recent events have delivered winds of change. Mary's brother died, leaving her family shattered. Tensions over land disputes are mounting between English settlers and the Wampanoag people. And a cunning young scientist has arrived, hoping to discover the origin of the island's prevalent deafness. His maniacal drive to find answers soon renders Mary a "live specimen" in a cruel experiment. (Written by a deaf author and based upon a true story.)