This clip is posted in gratitude to Dr. Jean Andrews for being in the path of this myth. As a grant writer extraordinaire, she was able to secure federal grants for the Lamar University Deaf Studies doctoral program which enabled me to receive my doctorate degree with no cost to myself. At the beginning of our correspondence, I found out she loved mythology and expressed enthusiasm this mythology project. At Lamar University, I used this mythology to teach the Introduction to Deaf Studies course which gave great boost to the development of this project. And because Jean is an author herself (click here for an interview with her), I dedicate this clip to her. And she is the second of only two scholars (the first being Paddy Ladd) to cite the myth in her work. Thank you, Jean, for all you do that enabled me to get my doctorate degree and being part of the development of this myth.

Enjoy watching how a “first” book was acquired by the archetypal Deaf Child. Click away . . .

Click here for YouTube and DVTV if above is not or slowly downloadable. In youtube, you can enlarge to full screen. Apparently the link to videoserver.us is not working properly and I will need to consult the videoserver person. Thank you.

Myth Commentary: The Deaf Child’s first book symbolizes securing something that serves as a major milestone that contributes to the positive lifelong development. A good example would be acquiring the sword of Excalibur for the young Arthur in his journey to become a king. The first book the Deaf Child acquired and read shows not only the growth but an indication that bigger things are yet to come (in terms of deaf history - or the deafhood development of the Deaf Child or the deaf community).

Deaf History Commentary: There is no direct deaf history connection this clip has other than the fact that most deaf people in the past and present became successful because of their ability to read, to say at the least.

Deafhood Questions: Do you remember reading and possessing your first book that gave you reasons to feel good as a deaf person and knowing that deaf people can read?

Quote: Reading Brings the Deaf Forward