A Sign of Her Own: How can a deaf woman speak out in a hearing world?

The Silent Patient is a novel that follows the life of Ellen Lark, who is deaf and on the verge of marriage when she is visited by Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor of the telephone. Bell wants Ellen to speak up in support of his claim to the patent, but Ellen has a different story to tell about how Bell betrayed her and other deaf pupils in pursuit of ambition and personal gain.

Format: Hardback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2024
Publisher: Headline Publishing Group

An exquisite portrayal of the lonely dislocation of being deaf in a hearing world, The Times aptly describes the brilliance of Ellen Lark's unforgettable character. Emilia Hart, author of Weyward, praises the book as "illuminating" and "beautifully written." Priscilla Morris, Women's Prize Shortlisted author of Black Butterflies, also commends it, highlighting its ability to shine a light into a hidden corner of history. Louise Hare, author of This Lovely City and Miss Aldridge Regrets, adds her praise, stating that the book is "fantastic." It illuminates a previously unexplored aspect of history.

Ellen Lark, on the brink of marriage, receives an unexpected visit from Alexander Graham Bell. Ellen, who is deaf, had once been Bell's student in Visible Speech, a technique aimed at teaching speech to deaf individuals. Bell, now a wealthy and renowned inventor, seeks Ellen's support in his quest to secure the patent for the telephone. However, Ellen has a different story to tell. She reveals how Bell betrayed her and other deaf pupils, pursuing ambition and personal gain at the expense of their well-being. He cut Ellen off from the community she had grown to love, leaving her feeling isolated and alone.

It is a story that few around Ellen seem willing to hear, but as the stakes become increasingly high, there may never be a more crucial time for her to share it. Ellen's voice carries the weight of truth and justice, and it is essential that her story be heard. The book serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the pursuit of equality for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Weight: 670g
Dimension: 241 x 165 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781035401611