MindField

My name is Julie Storck and I am a student at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities as well as a tutor for the American Sign Language department there. I recently read the MindField and would like to encourage others to take the time to do the same. MindField enlightens the world of Deaf and hearing culture without any “preachy” undertones. I like that the author chose to write a fictional book to express his views. It allows the reader to truly become engaged in the subject. One doesn’t even realize that they are learning while they enjoy reading this novel. I think the best part of this book is that it allows the reader to question his or her current way of thinking. A hearing reader may begin to realize how much hearing individuals and organizations rely on hearing. As many individuals in this book become deaf questions start to arise such as “how would I feel if I was deaf?”, “would I be limited?”, “how would I communicate with family and friends?”, “how would I want others to treat and view me?”. I think these are all important questions so that one may come to a better understanding and respect for Deaf culture. MindField also displays some of the techniques hearing individuals use to “improve” deaf people. American Sign Language, although becoming more popular, was often shunned and oral education and other “cures” pressed upon individuals. Even in times of emergency when much of the population in this book was becoming deaf, no deaf individuals were included in the “recovery process”. What a perfect resource…left untouched. Issues like this are addressed indirectly throughout the story. MindField is filled with suspense and enjoyment while still addressing an important issue. Enjoy!
-Julie

Posted on January 24th, 2007 by egbertpress
Filed under: Uncategorized