Listening to the Quiet

Jacki’s mama has a rare condition. She is slowly losing her hearing. Together, they are learning Sign Language so that they’ll always be able to tell each other everything. But as Mama’s world becomes quieter, Jacki’s remains full of sound, especially on Music Appreciation Fridays. How can Jacki enjoy listening to music when her mama can no longer hear it? 

A heartfelt story, inspired by the author’s childhood, about a young girl coming to terms with her mother’s hearing loss and finding new ways to experience the world together.

“Inspired by her own childhood, Silva’s narrative is honest and compassionate, and Frances Ives’s illustrations enhance that authenticity. The climax occurs two-thirds of the way through the book on a double-page spread, with mother and daughter seated at opposite ends of a classroom full of singing children, each with a finger pointed at the other. Forget the Sistine Chapel ceiling; these are the two fingers that define how far the human mind can reach. Listening to the Quiet celebrates the community around Jacki and her mother, and signals to us — fingers pointed — that loving others is the loudest language of all.”

- The New York Times

“A personal, child-friendly approach to sensory changes. This gently loving story will be especially appreciated by readers whose family members, friends, or classmates are experiencing hearing loss.”

- Kirkus Reviews