Book Title: I Deaf-initely Can: Rhett the Heeler
Author: Karlie Waldrip
Illustrator: Lucy Rogers
Publisher: Karlie Waldrip
Number of pages: 29
Genre: children’s
Release Date: May 8, 2024
Synopsis: (on the back of the book)
Based on a true story. Follow Rhett and Karlie’s journey a they show the world that their deafness will not stop them from living life to the fullest! Learn sign language with us and see how YOU deaf-initely can!
This story is written by a deaf author and illustrated by a deaf illustrator about a real-life deaf dog!
My Review:
5/5 stars
I have always had an interest in learning sign language ever since I was younger. The past year or so my interest has definitely increased, taking ASL classes, teaching students and even watching a few k-dramas that incorporate Korean sign language. Since I have been surrounding myself with sign language, including seeing more and more sign language videos on tik-tok and instagram I stumbled across Karlie Waldrip’s social media pages.
I initially had no idea that her dog Rhett was also deaf and thought their story was even more amazing. I Deaf-initely Can: Rhett the Heeler is such an adorable story of how the author came to find adopt Rhett and teach him sign language. I loved that the author also incorporated basic signs to her dog, like sit stay, etc. People of any age and ability would love and enjoy reading this book. Representation is always important, especially in children’s books. I recently saw a video post of a child in a deaf family reading this book and the pure excitement for the child to see someone like him in a story was incredible to see.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone and the best part is Karlie Waldrip already has a second book coming out soon called We Deaf-initely Can, Let the Adventures Begin (pre-order)
Stay tuned for my next post where I had the chance to interview Karlie Waldrip!!
Don’t forget! September is also Deaf Awareness Month!!
About the author:
Karlie Waldrip
Hi y’all! This is Karlie Waldrip, I am the author of “I Deaf-initely Can, Rhett the Heeler.” I was born deaf and raised in Texas! I have a wide range of experience as a deaf person. I grew up wearing hearing aids and then later decided to get cochlear implants as a tool to allow me to hear more sounds around me. I grew up learning how to talk and sign. I taught as a Deaf Education teacher for 4 years! I adopted Rhett from a small town shelter in Texas and fought to give him a voice to educate others about deaf dogs! Writing this book has been a dream to continue to reach out to others and educate how awesome deaf dogs are! I hope you consider purchasing a book or two from us! Lets educate the world!
Author Websites:
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