Family

The novel presents family as a defining feature of the development of Deaf children and their ultimate success and comfort in the world. The novel focuses on the various ways in which Deaf children are hurt or helped by their families. Because Deaf children are born with a disability that the world at large is not equipped to support, they require additional support from their families if they are to grow up to be happy, well-adjusted, self-confident, and successful young adults.

Charlie is born to a hearing mother who is unsupportive of her, and this results in many problems when Charlie as she begins to develop as a person because she does not have adequate family support to guide her through the world as a Deaf person. Her mother loves Charlie and wanted a daughter with all her heart. However, when Charlie is born Deaf, she...