WHAT: I Can Hear You Whisper: An Intimate Journey through the Science of Sound and Language by acclaimed science writer Lydia Denworth was released to praise and media attention. Interviews with CBS News reporter Lee Woodruff, the health section of the NY Times, and Opinions in the Washington Post all feature Ms. Denworth’s personal experience via her son’s significant hearing loss and insights gleaned through her extensive research on brain plasticity, language, literacy and the ongoing debate on sign language for deaf children.
WHO: Lydia Denworth, a parent of a child who uses a cochlear implant and a hearing aid, explores why children learn language. She relates her decisions regarding cochlear implantation and the impact of early access to sound on children’s brains. Along the way, she also learns and relates the role of parents in the language learning process.
WHY: Ms. Denworth shared her perspective on why this book is important with ACI Alliance:
“A cochlear implant changed my son Alex's life. Ten years ago, when his hearing loss was first identified, I was able to use my experience as a reporter to throw myself into understanding what was at stake and figuring out how to help him. But most parents of deaf and hard of hearing kids don't also happen to be science writers. Families--and adults confronting the same decisions for themselves--need clear, accurate information about cochlear implants and the other choices they face."
WHERE: For more information about the book and to view the CBS interview with Ms. Denworth:
https://lydiadenworth.com/books/i-can-hear-you-whisper/overview/
https://www.cbsnews.com/videos/a-mothers-journey-through-her-childs-deafness/
https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2014/04/18/4e2d144c-ba8e-11e3-9c3c-311301e2167d_story.html
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/brain-waves/201404/the-importance-connections
ABOUT COCHLEAR IMPLANTS:
The American Cochlear Implant Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving access to cochlear implantation through research, advocacy and awareness. For more information, go to www.acialliance.org. Contact Donna Sorkin, Executive Director dsorkin@acialliance.org / 703.534.6146.
