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Silence
Love is blind, but it's also deaf. Stella was born to sing. Someday Broadway. Even though she's only a sophomore at a new high school, her voice has given her the status as a "cool kid." But everything changes when a tragic accident renders her deaf. She can't hear herself sing not to mention speak. She can't hear anything. Silence. What happens when everything you've dreamed of and hoped for is shattered in a single moment?
Enter Hayden, the boy with blond curls who stutters. He's treated like an outcast because he's not "normal." And, yet, Stella feels an attraction to him that she can't explain. As Hayden reaches out to help Stella discover a world without sound, his own tragic past warns him to keep a distance. But their connection is undeniable. Can the boy who stutters and the girl who's deaf ever find a happily-ever-after? Silence is a story of friendship and hope with a lesson that sometimes it takes a tragedy to help us find and appreciate beauty and love in unexpected place.
Enter Hayden, the boy with blond curls who stutters. He's treated like an outcast because he's not "normal." And, yet, Stella feels an attraction to him that she can't explain. As Hayden reaches out to help Stella discover a world without sound, his own tragic past warns him to keep a distance. But their connection is undeniable. Can the boy who stutters and the girl who's deaf ever find a happily-ever-after? Silence is a story of friendship and hope with a lesson that sometimes it takes a tragedy to help us find and appreciate beauty and love in unexpected place.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published January 6, 2015
18 people are currently reading
978 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Lytton
8 books52 followersI love writing books for all ages. My goal is to take readers on an emotional journey along with my characters. Thanks for reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
March 5, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley.)
“The injury to your head caused sensorineural hearing loss. That’s why you can’t hear anything.”
This was a story about how one girl coped with losing her hearing, and the boy who helped her.
“My name is there. Not in the supporting cast list. But as the lead. As Maria. The lead in the school musical. Me.”
I felt quite sorry for Stella in this story. To lose your hearing must be awful, and especially awful if you are dependent on your hearing like a singer would be.
“When I do open my eyes, this is what I see. My mother is devastated, even though she tries to hide it from me. Her face is weepy every second.”
The storyline followed Stella as she lost her hearing in a freak accident, and then how she coped afterwards. I found the prose to be quite poetic, and it was lovely to see how Hayden helped her and kept her positive about the chances of recovering her hearing.
“Someday Broadway. There is not someday Broadway now. Without singing, I am invisible. A nobody. The girl with the voice is dead. Nothing can fix that.”
There was a touch of romance, but I wasn’t really a fan unfortunately.
“And that’s when it pours out of me. All of it. I tell Hayden everything. What’s wrong with me, and how I don’t even know if I will ever hear again.”
The ending to this was fairly happy, and I was glad with the way things worked out.
6 out of 10
“The injury to your head caused sensorineural hearing loss. That’s why you can’t hear anything.”
This was a story about how one girl coped with losing her hearing, and the boy who helped her.
“My name is there. Not in the supporting cast list. But as the lead. As Maria. The lead in the school musical. Me.”
I felt quite sorry for Stella in this story. To lose your hearing must be awful, and especially awful if you are dependent on your hearing like a singer would be.
“When I do open my eyes, this is what I see. My mother is devastated, even though she tries to hide it from me. Her face is weepy every second.”
The storyline followed Stella as she lost her hearing in a freak accident, and then how she coped afterwards. I found the prose to be quite poetic, and it was lovely to see how Hayden helped her and kept her positive about the chances of recovering her hearing.
“Someday Broadway. There is not someday Broadway now. Without singing, I am invisible. A nobody. The girl with the voice is dead. Nothing can fix that.”
There was a touch of romance, but I wasn’t really a fan unfortunately.
“And that’s when it pours out of me. All of it. I tell Hayden everything. What’s wrong with me, and how I don’t even know if I will ever hear again.”
The ending to this was fairly happy, and I was glad with the way things worked out.
6 out of 10
March 12, 2015
I loved this book! Stella moved about a year ago to a new high school but is so quiet that nobody really knows who she is and she only has one friend, Lily. She has a beautiful voice and finally took a chance by trying out for the school play. Amazingly, she lands the starring role! She's becoming more popular and is on the verge of her dreams coming true. However, a tragic accident changes everything. When she wakes up, she learns that she's deaf and she's not sure what that means for her future.
Hayden is a new boy who is considered to be weird because he speaks slowly and stutters. He's also a talented pianist and Stella feels a connection to him but doesn't make an effort to get to know him. Until the accident. He saves her physically and now he's challenging her to give him 17 days to help her imagine herself differently.
This book alternates between Stella and Hayden so we get to know both of them well. Hayden is keeping a secret and it's the reason he stutters. Stella is devastated when she learns she's deaf. She starts to retreat into herself. When there are 17 days before she is scheduled to meet with the audiologist to see if she will be able to hear again, Hayden asks her for that time so he can help her imagine herself differently. She figures she has nothing to lose so she agrees.
I loved Stella and Hayden's time together and the things they were able to experience. They slowly opened up to each other and Stella learned about other talents she had through using her other senses.
There are some great side characters, too. I loved Stella's mother and sister, Emerson. They were supportive and loving. Stella and Emerson grew closer after the accident. I also loved Hayden's grandfather. He gave Hayden a loving and stable home and expressed himself through his sculptures.
While reading this book, I thought about how it would feel to not be able to hear. Life would be so challenging. I enjoyed reading about Stella and what she was able to learn through her experience. I also love that this book is clean and one that I will be able to pass on to my daughter when she's a little older. It's a fantastic book which helps explore other options when life doesn't go the way you planned!! I look forward to reading more by this author in the future!
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
Hayden is a new boy who is considered to be weird because he speaks slowly and stutters. He's also a talented pianist and Stella feels a connection to him but doesn't make an effort to get to know him. Until the accident. He saves her physically and now he's challenging her to give him 17 days to help her imagine herself differently.
This book alternates between Stella and Hayden so we get to know both of them well. Hayden is keeping a secret and it's the reason he stutters. Stella is devastated when she learns she's deaf. She starts to retreat into herself. When there are 17 days before she is scheduled to meet with the audiologist to see if she will be able to hear again, Hayden asks her for that time so he can help her imagine herself differently. She figures she has nothing to lose so she agrees.
I loved Stella and Hayden's time together and the things they were able to experience. They slowly opened up to each other and Stella learned about other talents she had through using her other senses.
There are some great side characters, too. I loved Stella's mother and sister, Emerson. They were supportive and loving. Stella and Emerson grew closer after the accident. I also loved Hayden's grandfather. He gave Hayden a loving and stable home and expressed himself through his sculptures.
While reading this book, I thought about how it would feel to not be able to hear. Life would be so challenging. I enjoyed reading about Stella and what she was able to learn through her experience. I also love that this book is clean and one that I will be able to pass on to my daughter when she's a little older. It's a fantastic book which helps explore other options when life doesn't go the way you planned!! I look forward to reading more by this author in the future!
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
March 10, 2015
The synopsis of this book appealed to me because Stella is a musician, who looses her ability to hear music. As a teen my life revolved around my orchestra and choir concerts and I am drawn to books where the characters are involved in music.
Stella has an amazing talent as a singer. She is able to move others with her voice. While at practice for her high school musical, a new boy is introduced as the pianist. Hayden is also a talented musician, but he stutters and some people have a hard time with that. The two are drawn to each other before Stella has an accident and looses her hearing.
The way that Hayden is able show Stella more to the world than sound is beautiful. He understands her, and is able to point out dolphins in the ocean, the beauty of paint and a paintbrush, and many more things. He shows her a world that is more than the one that she had been living in. The most important thing that he shares with her is emotional support.
This book does a wonderful job at making you think. The importance of true friendship, the beauty of the world, and surviving physical trauma are all subjects of the book.
I think that this is a book that be on my mind for a while after the last page has been closed.
Stella has an amazing talent as a singer. She is able to move others with her voice. While at practice for her high school musical, a new boy is introduced as the pianist. Hayden is also a talented musician, but he stutters and some people have a hard time with that. The two are drawn to each other before Stella has an accident and looses her hearing.
The way that Hayden is able show Stella more to the world than sound is beautiful. He understands her, and is able to point out dolphins in the ocean, the beauty of paint and a paintbrush, and many more things. He shows her a world that is more than the one that she had been living in. The most important thing that he shares with her is emotional support.
This book does a wonderful job at making you think. The importance of true friendship, the beauty of the world, and surviving physical trauma are all subjects of the book.
I think that this is a book that be on my mind for a while after the last page has been closed.
February 11, 2019
The premise of this book--a girl with a passion for musical theatre has to adjust after an accident causes her to lose her hearing--has promise, and the first few chapters, which focus on Stella's musical theatre ambitions and the accident itself, were fairly engaging. However, the way the book handles the subject of deafness and the romance between Stella and Hayden made the remainder of the book intensely frustrating.
As is the case in many romance novels, the connection between Stella and Hayden is formed the second they see each other, before they even have a conversation. While this approach is unsatisfying and makes it more difficult to become invested in the relationship, it was not the biggest issue with their dynamic. In his first text conversation with Stella, Hayden informs her that he will have to "save her from herself." Rather than chafing at the presumtuous and patronizing tone of this message, Stella is won over and eagerly agrees to let him prove that losing her hearing hasn't rendered her life worthless. Throughout the rest of the book, Stella is portrayed as a low-autonomy character who depends on Hayden to dispense wisdom and uncover her complete self. Both characters repeatedly congratulate him for this behaviour, with Hayden reflecting that he "chose to save Stella from drowning... and chose to save her from herself" and Stella gushing to him that "not only did you save my life, you saved my soul."
The 'Hayden as saviour' angle also defines the central source of conflict in the second half of the book, which is essentially this: although Stella has been professing her deep, undying love for Hayden since their relationship began, Hayden knows that, once her hearing returns, she'll realize she's too good for him and decide staying with him would only hold her back. Therefore, although both partners are thrilled with the relationship, Hayden knows he must do the noble thing and end it. On the surface level, it's difficult to get emotionally involved in a conflict that boils down to 'will these characters who love each other break up... just because?' The larger problem, however, lies with the offensive ideology unpinning this source of tension. During all his tortured ruminations on the subject, Hayden never acknowledges that Stella has only expressed positive feelings about the relationship and given no indication that her love for Hayden is dependent on her inability to hear--in his mind, he knows what she wants better than she does and can therefore ignore the implications of the things she says and does. Additionally, the idea that Hayden is an acceptable boyfriend for her while she's deaf but will be "holding her back" once she can hear again sends a pretty clear message about the relative worth of deaf and hearing people which is never critically examined. Finally, there's a long passage where Hayden laments his stutter because he knows that, once Stella hears him speak, she'll be repulsed and realize she's "better than him." Not only does this argument make no sense (since Stella hears him speak several times before the accident and is fully aware of how he sounds), it's incredibly insensitive to people with atypical speech patterns.
There are several other elements of the book which serve as sources of frustration. For one thing, the existence of a thriving Deaf community with their own culture and language is never even discussed--there are zero references to sign language as a possible means of communication, and the only allusion to other deaf people is a brief mention of Helen Keller. Additionally, the prose is extremely overwrought and refuses to leave any of the protagonists' thoughts or feelings implied rather than stating them outright. Overall, Silence is a book that could have benefitted from ruthless editing, some critical thought about the messages being sent, and a great deal more research into the deaf experience. Lytton needs to allow both her protagonists to have autonomy and recognize that things like deafness and speech difficulties are complex conditions which many of her potential readers have personal experience with, not just props to make a love story more dramatic.
As is the case in many romance novels, the connection between Stella and Hayden is formed the second they see each other, before they even have a conversation. While this approach is unsatisfying and makes it more difficult to become invested in the relationship, it was not the biggest issue with their dynamic. In his first text conversation with Stella, Hayden informs her that he will have to "save her from herself." Rather than chafing at the presumtuous and patronizing tone of this message, Stella is won over and eagerly agrees to let him prove that losing her hearing hasn't rendered her life worthless. Throughout the rest of the book, Stella is portrayed as a low-autonomy character who depends on Hayden to dispense wisdom and uncover her complete self. Both characters repeatedly congratulate him for this behaviour, with Hayden reflecting that he "chose to save Stella from drowning... and chose to save her from herself" and Stella gushing to him that "not only did you save my life, you saved my soul."
The 'Hayden as saviour' angle also defines the central source of conflict in the second half of the book, which is essentially this: although Stella has been professing her deep, undying love for Hayden since their relationship began, Hayden knows that, once her hearing returns, she'll realize she's too good for him and decide staying with him would only hold her back. Therefore, although both partners are thrilled with the relationship, Hayden knows he must do the noble thing and end it. On the surface level, it's difficult to get emotionally involved in a conflict that boils down to 'will these characters who love each other break up... just because?' The larger problem, however, lies with the offensive ideology unpinning this source of tension. During all his tortured ruminations on the subject, Hayden never acknowledges that Stella has only expressed positive feelings about the relationship and given no indication that her love for Hayden is dependent on her inability to hear--in his mind, he knows what she wants better than she does and can therefore ignore the implications of the things she says and does. Additionally, the idea that Hayden is an acceptable boyfriend for her while she's deaf but will be "holding her back" once she can hear again sends a pretty clear message about the relative worth of deaf and hearing people which is never critically examined. Finally, there's a long passage where Hayden laments his stutter because he knows that, once Stella hears him speak, she'll be repulsed and realize she's "better than him." Not only does this argument make no sense (since Stella hears him speak several times before the accident and is fully aware of how he sounds), it's incredibly insensitive to people with atypical speech patterns.
There are several other elements of the book which serve as sources of frustration. For one thing, the existence of a thriving Deaf community with their own culture and language is never even discussed--there are zero references to sign language as a possible means of communication, and the only allusion to other deaf people is a brief mention of Helen Keller. Additionally, the prose is extremely overwrought and refuses to leave any of the protagonists' thoughts or feelings implied rather than stating them outright. Overall, Silence is a book that could have benefitted from ruthless editing, some critical thought about the messages being sent, and a great deal more research into the deaf experience. Lytton needs to allow both her protagonists to have autonomy and recognize that things like deafness and speech difficulties are complex conditions which many of her potential readers have personal experience with, not just props to make a love story more dramatic.
March 5, 2015
(I received a copy from Netgalley, In exchange for an honest review.)
I felt really sorry for Stella. It would be awful to suddenly lose your hearing like that, and trying to adjust to life without it would be really hard and confusing.
Not only did she lose her hearing, she lost her dreams of singing, and lost the relationship she had with her best friend.
I really liked the romance between Stella and Hayden. They understood each other, and they made a nice couple.
Overall, A moving read about a girl dealing with deafness.
I felt really sorry for Stella. It would be awful to suddenly lose your hearing like that, and trying to adjust to life without it would be really hard and confusing.
Not only did she lose her hearing, she lost her dreams of singing, and lost the relationship she had with her best friend.
I really liked the romance between Stella and Hayden. They understood each other, and they made a nice couple.
Overall, A moving read about a girl dealing with deafness.
March 19, 2015
Stella has big dreams, Broadway dreams, and she's been blessed with a great voice. But just when things start to look like they're really happening for her, she goes to party (I don't consider this a spoiler as I KNEW it was going to be a party) and gets hurt. She gets hurt in a manner that takes away her hearing. And while our (deaf people) voices vibrate and we can control our volume for the most part, deafness usually results in tone deafness--I know this. So naturally, Stella fears her dreams have gone down the toilet, and quickly.
And she doesn't know how to do, how to be, anyone besides who she was before.
I appreciated that story line and I could relate, even though my hearing loss was gradual, even though I was able to properly prepare myself, as much as one can for such a circumstance, I got it. "The day is happening around me. Not to me."
Stella is only 15, so it's a shock to her. She wallows in self pity for much of the story. I confess this irritated me after a while. I understood it, mind you, but it still irritated me, partly because I couldn't help but see all the advantages she instantly had that certainly weren't available in my day. She instantly has captioning (I didn't get that until my teens. Don't even get me started on how difficult it was to understand the tv until then), a cell phone with text messaging (I was in my twenties), and cochlear implant(s).
And yet, she being 15, she doesn't realize all the things she's lucky to have. This made sense, but doesn't mean I didn't find her attitude a little frustrating.
I must say I appreciate the research the author did into all this. I think teenagers will learn a lot from this book and perhaps see the everyday things they take for granted.
And then a boy vows to show Stella in 17 days how she can live with her new disability, that she can still be happy and do things. And with this comes new insight and growth. I thought I knew who I was. But I was limiting myself to being one thing. Defining myself by my talent. There's more to me than that. More I can give. More I can share.
The author tackled a lot of things in this story: abuse, trauma, hearing loss, anxiety, divorce, stuttering. And her writing is beautiful. It's really too beautiful though, nearly poetic. And while this prose would be fabulous in literary fiction or poetry, it seemed out of place in a young adult book.
"The tightness in my chest begins to loosen like a rosebud beginning to bloom in the sun. Petals slowly open."
I don't know many people--adults or teenagers--who sit there and think in metaphors like that. And it got to be a lot, so much that I began to skim at points.
I love that this heroine isn't just cured. Too often when deaf heroines are tackled, it seems they can't have happy endings without suddenly being cured, like you can't be deaf/HoH and have a happy ending-an insult, really. I love the cochlear implant story line but at the same time I feel a great educational opportunity was squandered, as not much time was spent on them. What does she notice after they're implanted? What's it feel like? What's in there exactly? And I'm confused as to the one bandage when she was deaf on both sides. They only go in one side? More details would have been appreciated.
The romance was a over dramatic, their feelings for each other a bit over the top, but they are fifteen and at that age, everything is over dramatic. At times, however, they said things way advanced for their ages. And to be perfectly honest, it's easier to read lips when people speak normally. I can't say I really bought the "I only understand him because he stutters" thing, because as a lipreader, I can say that would make it harder.
Full review, favorite quote: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2015/...
And she doesn't know how to do, how to be, anyone besides who she was before.
I appreciated that story line and I could relate, even though my hearing loss was gradual, even though I was able to properly prepare myself, as much as one can for such a circumstance, I got it. "The day is happening around me. Not to me."
Stella is only 15, so it's a shock to her. She wallows in self pity for much of the story. I confess this irritated me after a while. I understood it, mind you, but it still irritated me, partly because I couldn't help but see all the advantages she instantly had that certainly weren't available in my day. She instantly has captioning (I didn't get that until my teens. Don't even get me started on how difficult it was to understand the tv until then), a cell phone with text messaging (I was in my twenties), and cochlear implant(s).
And yet, she being 15, she doesn't realize all the things she's lucky to have. This made sense, but doesn't mean I didn't find her attitude a little frustrating.
I must say I appreciate the research the author did into all this. I think teenagers will learn a lot from this book and perhaps see the everyday things they take for granted.
And then a boy vows to show Stella in 17 days how she can live with her new disability, that she can still be happy and do things. And with this comes new insight and growth. I thought I knew who I was. But I was limiting myself to being one thing. Defining myself by my talent. There's more to me than that. More I can give. More I can share.
The author tackled a lot of things in this story: abuse, trauma, hearing loss, anxiety, divorce, stuttering. And her writing is beautiful. It's really too beautiful though, nearly poetic. And while this prose would be fabulous in literary fiction or poetry, it seemed out of place in a young adult book.
"The tightness in my chest begins to loosen like a rosebud beginning to bloom in the sun. Petals slowly open."
I don't know many people--adults or teenagers--who sit there and think in metaphors like that. And it got to be a lot, so much that I began to skim at points.
I love that this heroine isn't just cured. Too often when deaf heroines are tackled, it seems they can't have happy endings without suddenly being cured, like you can't be deaf/HoH and have a happy ending-an insult, really. I love the cochlear implant story line but at the same time I feel a great educational opportunity was squandered, as not much time was spent on them. What does she notice after they're implanted? What's it feel like? What's in there exactly? And I'm confused as to the one bandage when she was deaf on both sides. They only go in one side? More details would have been appreciated.
The romance was a over dramatic, their feelings for each other a bit over the top, but they are fifteen and at that age, everything is over dramatic. At times, however, they said things way advanced for their ages. And to be perfectly honest, it's easier to read lips when people speak normally. I can't say I really bought the "I only understand him because he stutters" thing, because as a lipreader, I can say that would make it harder.
Full review, favorite quote: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2015/...
March 2, 2015
Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I received a copy of this book from the publisher Shadow Mountain via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Netgalley says that the publication date is expected for March 3rd however Goodreads says it was on January 6th.
I really should have disliked this book. It was so full of "rainbows and unicorns" and so squeaky clean. It spoke of a powerful love that went deeper than anything I have ever experienced and the main character was only 15. It had two people who could communicate without words. Sounds kind of corny doesn't it? Let me tell you...it wasn't! I couldn't help but fall in love with this story.
I will not be discussing the plot today. Read the synopsis, it covers the basics. This story made me feel one thing and that was optimistic. Today's novels rarely leave you feeling that way but this story did. Think about that first mild spring day you go out for a nice leisurely walk after a bitter cold winter. Or cuddling with your pet with a good book. This is just a couple of examples of how I felt reading this.
Think about first love and the butterflies you got every time you saw them. How one smile from them could brighten your entire universe. I could go on and on. This story reminded me of the innocence of youth and first loves and discovering who you are through someone else's eyes. How could you not be lured in by that.
While the relationship between Stella and Hayden could be argued as bordering on the sappy factor it just worked for this story. Perhaps the fact that I have a hard time picturing real life like this story is what made it work for. I honestly don't really care and I am going to stop trying to analyse it. The bottom line is that the story got under my skin and made me smile. It was nice to read something that makes you feel good for a change. I also think Hayden was a wonderfully written character.
I will close by saying that I predict good things for this story in the YA genre. In a market dominated by dystopian and paranormal stories this one stands out as refreshing because it is not. I can see this being a big hit among YA females. I am already recommending it to my teenaged nieces
I received a copy of this book from the publisher Shadow Mountain via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Netgalley says that the publication date is expected for March 3rd however Goodreads says it was on January 6th.
I really should have disliked this book. It was so full of "rainbows and unicorns" and so squeaky clean. It spoke of a powerful love that went deeper than anything I have ever experienced and the main character was only 15. It had two people who could communicate without words. Sounds kind of corny doesn't it? Let me tell you...it wasn't! I couldn't help but fall in love with this story.
I will not be discussing the plot today. Read the synopsis, it covers the basics. This story made me feel one thing and that was optimistic. Today's novels rarely leave you feeling that way but this story did. Think about that first mild spring day you go out for a nice leisurely walk after a bitter cold winter. Or cuddling with your pet with a good book. This is just a couple of examples of how I felt reading this.
Think about first love and the butterflies you got every time you saw them. How one smile from them could brighten your entire universe. I could go on and on. This story reminded me of the innocence of youth and first loves and discovering who you are through someone else's eyes. How could you not be lured in by that.
While the relationship between Stella and Hayden could be argued as bordering on the sappy factor it just worked for this story. Perhaps the fact that I have a hard time picturing real life like this story is what made it work for. I honestly don't really care and I am going to stop trying to analyse it. The bottom line is that the story got under my skin and made me smile. It was nice to read something that makes you feel good for a change. I also think Hayden was a wonderfully written character.
I will close by saying that I predict good things for this story in the YA genre. In a market dominated by dystopian and paranormal stories this one stands out as refreshing because it is not. I can see this being a big hit among YA females. I am already recommending it to my teenaged nieces
March 2, 2015
“Silence” is a romance for teens about a boy who has a speech impediment and a girl who loses her hearing in a freak accident. At its heart it’s a very sweet story, and I wish I could have given it four stars.
I’ll begin with the good. It’s nice to see a book written featuring different sorts of disabilities and how they affect lives of both those with them and those around them. There are no sexual acts outside of kissing, faith is featured heavily, and there is no bad language. It’s written in a very simple-to-read manner which makes it a good choice for middle readers and those looking for “clean” romances, which I know are often difficult to find.
Unfortunately, the writing, while easy to read, is also over-the-top flowery. Considering there are two narrators, and both speak in flowery language, it is difficult to distinguish between their voices. Therefore, character development is stagnant. The plot is not bad, but seems more suited to a short story, making it seem like quite a bit is filler.
I recommend “Silence” for those looking for a “clean” romance for younger middle graders, but don’t think it would appeal to other demographics. Your mileage may vary.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I’ll begin with the good. It’s nice to see a book written featuring different sorts of disabilities and how they affect lives of both those with them and those around them. There are no sexual acts outside of kissing, faith is featured heavily, and there is no bad language. It’s written in a very simple-to-read manner which makes it a good choice for middle readers and those looking for “clean” romances, which I know are often difficult to find.
Unfortunately, the writing, while easy to read, is also over-the-top flowery. Considering there are two narrators, and both speak in flowery language, it is difficult to distinguish between their voices. Therefore, character development is stagnant. The plot is not bad, but seems more suited to a short story, making it seem like quite a bit is filler.
I recommend “Silence” for those looking for a “clean” romance for younger middle graders, but don’t think it would appeal to other demographics. Your mileage may vary.
This review is based upon a complimentary copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2015
Overall: 4.5 Stars
Silence is a very thoughtful, sweet, and poetic read exploring the depths of self-identity, hopefulness, and new love. Not only is it well-written, but it is cleanly written, stripping away the distractions of over-sexualization and vulgarity that have become commonplace in this genre, and replacing them with sincere motives and purity of intention and heart. Silence is a beautiful and meaningful story and one I have no hesitance recommending.
I had not intended to read this book as quickly as I did, but once I got started I had a difficult time putting it down. I was instantly drawn into the story of Stella, who lost her hearing right before starring in the school musical, and has to find a new way to identify herself. Enter Hayden, who has had his own very difficult journey, and takes it upon himself to help Stella transition. But at the same time as he's trying to help her, it is obvious that a deeper connection is developing between them. A kindred spirit, a gentle friendship, and quiet love, developing over time and within the bond that they've created. There was such a sweetness and tenderness to the two of them, and I loved the way they handled each other's griefs and triumphs, woes and healing. Despite their youth, circumstances have forced a maturity of outlook upon them, and I loved how they handled it all, overcoming their fears, winning over their pasts, and finding that special person who truly understands you, the whole you. This was a beautiful, sweet, and meaningful read, and I loved it.
Silence is a very thoughtful, sweet, and poetic read exploring the depths of self-identity, hopefulness, and new love. Not only is it well-written, but it is cleanly written, stripping away the distractions of over-sexualization and vulgarity that have become commonplace in this genre, and replacing them with sincere motives and purity of intention and heart. Silence is a beautiful and meaningful story and one I have no hesitance recommending.
I had not intended to read this book as quickly as I did, but once I got started I had a difficult time putting it down. I was instantly drawn into the story of Stella, who lost her hearing right before starring in the school musical, and has to find a new way to identify herself. Enter Hayden, who has had his own very difficult journey, and takes it upon himself to help Stella transition. But at the same time as he's trying to help her, it is obvious that a deeper connection is developing between them. A kindred spirit, a gentle friendship, and quiet love, developing over time and within the bond that they've created. There was such a sweetness and tenderness to the two of them, and I loved the way they handled each other's griefs and triumphs, woes and healing. Despite their youth, circumstances have forced a maturity of outlook upon them, and I loved how they handled it all, overcoming their fears, winning over their pasts, and finding that special person who truly understands you, the whole you. This was a beautiful, sweet, and meaningful read, and I loved it.
May 8, 2018
This ya contemporary has lots of feels. My heart broke for Stella when she lost her hearing and her journey was hard to read. I love books that change or challenge our perspective and help us not take things for granted. Having Stella and Hayden's povs helped so much and I loved seeing what they were both thinking.
Stella starts going to a new school and is shy and quiet until someone hears her sing. Her dream is to be a professional singer one day. She tries out for the school play and is shocked to see that she has the lead role! This will help her so much with her future career. She is now on the road to popularity and everything seems perfect.
Stella has an accident and now she can't hear anything. It's like she's living in a nightmare she can't wake up from and nothing is helping. Her mom and sister are very supportive and do their best to help her acclimate to her new life. In pops Hayden, a guy who is socially outcast because he has an intense stutter. A dumb reason for people not to like you in my opinion but bullying is fierce and seems to only get worse.
Hayden and Stella have a pull to each other and become friends. He plays the piano and encourages Stella in ways no one else does. He helps her start seeing the good things about life and she sees him for who he is and not his stutter. He helps Stella see she still has a voice and it matters.
Stella starts going to a new school and is shy and quiet until someone hears her sing. Her dream is to be a professional singer one day. She tries out for the school play and is shocked to see that she has the lead role! This will help her so much with her future career. She is now on the road to popularity and everything seems perfect.
Stella has an accident and now she can't hear anything. It's like she's living in a nightmare she can't wake up from and nothing is helping. Her mom and sister are very supportive and do their best to help her acclimate to her new life. In pops Hayden, a guy who is socially outcast because he has an intense stutter. A dumb reason for people not to like you in my opinion but bullying is fierce and seems to only get worse.
Hayden and Stella have a pull to each other and become friends. He plays the piano and encourages Stella in ways no one else does. He helps her start seeing the good things about life and she sees him for who he is and not his stutter. He helps Stella see she still has a voice and it matters.
March 3, 2015
There are a lot of things in life that I take for granted. My five senses are at the top of the list. I can't even imagine what it would be like to have the world at the tip of my fingers and with one accident, lose it all.
Stella has an amazing voice and has a big goal-- "Someday Broadway." She's only a sophomore, yet she has the lead in the school musical. Until a freak accident at a party leaves her unable to hear...leaves her world silent. She starts to lose hope and is so afraid of what the future will bring. Until Hayden.
"I know only one thing. He is the white feather of hope drifting through the darkness of my days. And if I can hold on, I just might be able to fly."
Hayden is a new boy in school and Stella feels an instant connection with him. He's had a hard life and knows what it's like to be silent, in a way. He spent eight years unable to talk and now he talks slowly, with a stutter, but he's incredibly talented on the piano. He is determined to help Stella and seems to be the only one who can, but life doesn't make it easy for them to be together.
I love the way Hayden is able to help Stella really feel the other senses. I love the connection they share and the way that's expressed. I was moved by the relationship Stella has with her mom and her younger sister, Emerson. When times get tough, true friends are the ones who stick around and there's nothing that says those friends can't be family. Told in first person, in alternating views, this story is one that will really make a reader think and feel a range of emotion--love, happiness, fear, and even anger.
Content: Squeaky clean romance; no language or violence; mild religious elements (characters attend church)
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
Stella has an amazing voice and has a big goal-- "Someday Broadway." She's only a sophomore, yet she has the lead in the school musical. Until a freak accident at a party leaves her unable to hear...leaves her world silent. She starts to lose hope and is so afraid of what the future will bring. Until Hayden.
"I know only one thing. He is the white feather of hope drifting through the darkness of my days. And if I can hold on, I just might be able to fly."
Hayden is a new boy in school and Stella feels an instant connection with him. He's had a hard life and knows what it's like to be silent, in a way. He spent eight years unable to talk and now he talks slowly, with a stutter, but he's incredibly talented on the piano. He is determined to help Stella and seems to be the only one who can, but life doesn't make it easy for them to be together.
I love the way Hayden is able to help Stella really feel the other senses. I love the connection they share and the way that's expressed. I was moved by the relationship Stella has with her mom and her younger sister, Emerson. When times get tough, true friends are the ones who stick around and there's nothing that says those friends can't be family. Told in first person, in alternating views, this story is one that will really make a reader think and feel a range of emotion--love, happiness, fear, and even anger.
Content: Squeaky clean romance; no language or violence; mild religious elements (characters attend church)
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
October 27, 2024
This book was a breath of fresh air compared to the last one. (When my heart joins the thousands) I loved the plot, the dynamic, the way it was written, everything! Hayden and Stella were the purest, most beautiful couple that exists. It wasn't sexual or gross, it was just sweet and lovely. I finished it very quickly because I wanted to know what happened and how their relationship would develop.
If you like "Silence” you'll like “All Our Broken Pieces” by L.D Crichton.
If you like "Silence” you'll like “All Our Broken Pieces” by L.D Crichton.
January 17, 2020
2.5 stars. There were a lot of really good things about this book but I couldn’t get past the instalove, the writing that seemed like it was meant for a much younger grade level, and the message that romantic love is needed for recovery. I liked the thought behind this book, but it felt like it was aimed more at preteens despite the characters’ ages.
February 21, 2023
This was cute 🥰
March 11, 2015
Stella has a mantra she lives by.
'No boys. No distractions. Someday Broadway.'
She has dreams of singing on Broadway some day and boys will only get in the way. And it seems like she might be on the right path. She lands the starring role of Maria in Westside Story and she is only a sophomore. Usually the leading role goes to a senior. Yes, sir - her dream just might come true.
'When I sing, I make my own soundtrack. I believe anything is possible. Miracles can happen.'
That all changes one night after an accident which leaves Stella completely deaf. She can't even hear anything, how is she supposed to sing? There goes her dream. But then along comes Hayden, the high school misfit who has no friends but with whom Stella feels a very strong comnnection. Hayden has his own issues weighing him down but he wants to be there for Stella.
'Why am I doing this, letting myself get so close? It's better if I keep to myself. It's better not to let anyone in. Trust is synonymous with pain. And love is nothing more than a shiny, wrapped present that turns out to be empty inside.'
Stella and Hayden become very close as Hayden embraces this chance to teach Stella that there is so much more to life and being able to hear and sing should not be her reason to live. And that maybe living in silence is not the end of the world.
'A lone tear slips down my cheek. Lodges itself between my skin and the pillow. I feel the dampness soak into the pale blue cotton. I keep the other tears inside, not letting them fall. One tear is enough. If I let them out one at a time, maybe I won't drown.'
I really did love this story. It was sad. And sweet. And touching. These young adults rely on each other to get through the tough hands that they have been dealt. It is an emotional journey as we watch these young people deal with their pain, as well as witnessing their joy as their relationship develops.
'He is the white feather of hope drifting through the darkness of my days. And if I can hold on, I just might be able to fly.'
Deborah has such a beautiful way of writing. As you can see by all the quotes I pulled out of the story that there were so many great lines that spoke to me, ones that I just wanted to savor. I look forward to reading more of Deborah's stories!
'No boys. No distractions. Someday Broadway.'
She has dreams of singing on Broadway some day and boys will only get in the way. And it seems like she might be on the right path. She lands the starring role of Maria in Westside Story and she is only a sophomore. Usually the leading role goes to a senior. Yes, sir - her dream just might come true.
'When I sing, I make my own soundtrack. I believe anything is possible. Miracles can happen.'
That all changes one night after an accident which leaves Stella completely deaf. She can't even hear anything, how is she supposed to sing? There goes her dream. But then along comes Hayden, the high school misfit who has no friends but with whom Stella feels a very strong comnnection. Hayden has his own issues weighing him down but he wants to be there for Stella.
'Why am I doing this, letting myself get so close? It's better if I keep to myself. It's better not to let anyone in. Trust is synonymous with pain. And love is nothing more than a shiny, wrapped present that turns out to be empty inside.'
Stella and Hayden become very close as Hayden embraces this chance to teach Stella that there is so much more to life and being able to hear and sing should not be her reason to live. And that maybe living in silence is not the end of the world.
'A lone tear slips down my cheek. Lodges itself between my skin and the pillow. I feel the dampness soak into the pale blue cotton. I keep the other tears inside, not letting them fall. One tear is enough. If I let them out one at a time, maybe I won't drown.'
I really did love this story. It was sad. And sweet. And touching. These young adults rely on each other to get through the tough hands that they have been dealt. It is an emotional journey as we watch these young people deal with their pain, as well as witnessing their joy as their relationship develops.
'He is the white feather of hope drifting through the darkness of my days. And if I can hold on, I just might be able to fly.'
Deborah has such a beautiful way of writing. As you can see by all the quotes I pulled out of the story that there were so many great lines that spoke to me, ones that I just wanted to savor. I look forward to reading more of Deborah's stories!
March 6, 2015
Something is different about him today. I sense it. He's more open, somehow. More present. I have no idea what caused the change, but I like it. Then it occurs to me maybe the one who is different is me. (Stella)
I have won. Not with my fists, but with words. I have won with the power of speech. (Hayden)
With a lovely ornate style of writing, author Deborah Lytton brings to life a tale of acceptance, redemption and love in her gripping YA novel, Silence. Stella and Hayden are two gentle teens, she with an exceptional singing voice and he more of an outcast, forgotten because of his stutter. Before her big break as the lead in "West Side Story," the unthinkable happens and Stella has an accident. This tragedy robs her of what she loves and prizes most: her voice. But Hayden understands what she will have to endure for the next seventeen days as she heals, forced to readjust to a temporary new life of silence. With his help, he wants to show her the beauty and possibilities of the world around her if she'll let him.
The first chapter totally reined me in with Stella's strong voice and winning personality. Some may not care for 'flowery' language, I appreciate it when done well. The relationship between Stella and Hayden grows out of one's need to help another thrown into a situation where the outcome could be one of depression or sadness or unacceptance. By having a dual narration, we experience the beauty, faith, and determination of these two teens as they learn to conquer the difficulties life tosses at us, and as they do, they also fall in love.
Silence is a clean YA and its messages will resonate with many. I really liked it.
I have won. Not with my fists, but with words. I have won with the power of speech. (Hayden)
With a lovely ornate style of writing, author Deborah Lytton brings to life a tale of acceptance, redemption and love in her gripping YA novel, Silence. Stella and Hayden are two gentle teens, she with an exceptional singing voice and he more of an outcast, forgotten because of his stutter. Before her big break as the lead in "West Side Story," the unthinkable happens and Stella has an accident. This tragedy robs her of what she loves and prizes most: her voice. But Hayden understands what she will have to endure for the next seventeen days as she heals, forced to readjust to a temporary new life of silence. With his help, he wants to show her the beauty and possibilities of the world around her if she'll let him.
The first chapter totally reined me in with Stella's strong voice and winning personality. Some may not care for 'flowery' language, I appreciate it when done well. The relationship between Stella and Hayden grows out of one's need to help another thrown into a situation where the outcome could be one of depression or sadness or unacceptance. By having a dual narration, we experience the beauty, faith, and determination of these two teens as they learn to conquer the difficulties life tosses at us, and as they do, they also fall in love.
Silence is a clean YA and its messages will resonate with many. I really liked it.
March 11, 2015
I loved this book. I wasn't sure how I would feel about it at first--it is written in first person, present tense, which is tricky to do and keep everything straight. Lytton did a great job with the voice and point of view as well as the present tense. Silence struck a chord with me because I love music and enjoy singing, so I kept imagining myself in Stella's place and how I would handle things.
Envisioning her struggle through a teen's eyes, she handled things extremely well. It was neat to read about all the possibilities there are for hearing loss and also be reminded of just how difficult it is to live without sound or impaired hearing.
I enjoyed experiencing the push and pull of Stella's relationship with Hayden as they both rediscover themselves and found a way to heal.
Lytton's writing is lyrical, full of music itself and the story carries itself forward in a realistic way that makes you feel as if you really know Stella and Hayden and their families.
I have an almost twelve-year-old who gets excited about reading romance but there's not much that is safe for her young age. I'm very pleased that I can pass this book on to her next, knowing that she will not only love the story but learn something from it too. Thank you to Deborah Lytton for crafting a tale that can be enjoyed in the wide age-range of teen readers (and their moms too!)
This is a young adult contemporary novel with a story about life, learning, tragedy, romance, and rediscovering yourself. I highly recommend this book as a clean teen read.
I was given a review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Envisioning her struggle through a teen's eyes, she handled things extremely well. It was neat to read about all the possibilities there are for hearing loss and also be reminded of just how difficult it is to live without sound or impaired hearing.
I enjoyed experiencing the push and pull of Stella's relationship with Hayden as they both rediscover themselves and found a way to heal.
Lytton's writing is lyrical, full of music itself and the story carries itself forward in a realistic way that makes you feel as if you really know Stella and Hayden and their families.
I have an almost twelve-year-old who gets excited about reading romance but there's not much that is safe for her young age. I'm very pleased that I can pass this book on to her next, knowing that she will not only love the story but learn something from it too. Thank you to Deborah Lytton for crafting a tale that can be enjoyed in the wide age-range of teen readers (and their moms too!)
This is a young adult contemporary novel with a story about life, learning, tragedy, romance, and rediscovering yourself. I highly recommend this book as a clean teen read.
I was given a review copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 4, 2015
Great book for readers of all ages!
Stella is 15 and moved about a year ago to a new high school but is so quiet that nobody really knows who she is and she only has one friend, Lily. She has a beautiful voice and finally took a chance by trying out for the school play. Amazingly, she lands the starring role! Stella is cast as Maria in the school's production of "West Side Story" and is instantly on the raider of the more popular crowd at school.
Hayden is 17 and is considered to be weird because he speaks slowly and stutters. He's also a talented pianist and has the ability to read people and situations very clearly.
Stella and Hayden have an instant connection, but because of her friend and his speech and trust issues, they don't rally talk, just communicate silently.
Stella's dreams are shattered when she loses her hearing in a freak accident. During this time, Hayden is her savior. Because of his stuttering speech, he speaks slowly and more pronounced, so Stella is able to read his lips easily, and he "get" her and she him.
As Stella and Hayden work through high school drama and life while fighting huge disadvantages, this store teaches lessons about love, loss, acceptance, hope and faith.
Highly recommend for ages 13 and up.
Stella is 15 and moved about a year ago to a new high school but is so quiet that nobody really knows who she is and she only has one friend, Lily. She has a beautiful voice and finally took a chance by trying out for the school play. Amazingly, she lands the starring role! Stella is cast as Maria in the school's production of "West Side Story" and is instantly on the raider of the more popular crowd at school.
Hayden is 17 and is considered to be weird because he speaks slowly and stutters. He's also a talented pianist and has the ability to read people and situations very clearly.
Stella and Hayden have an instant connection, but because of her friend and his speech and trust issues, they don't rally talk, just communicate silently.
Stella's dreams are shattered when she loses her hearing in a freak accident. During this time, Hayden is her savior. Because of his stuttering speech, he speaks slowly and more pronounced, so Stella is able to read his lips easily, and he "get" her and she him.
As Stella and Hayden work through high school drama and life while fighting huge disadvantages, this store teaches lessons about love, loss, acceptance, hope and faith.
Highly recommend for ages 13 and up.
March 31, 2015
Two diffident teenagers with communication issues fall in love in this endearing romance. The novel alternates chapters from Stella’s and Hayden’s first-person perspectives. Lytton creates believable backstories for her characters to explain why they are both wary of love. Teens who enjoyed The Fault in Our Stars and
Gracefully Grayson
should find plenty to relate to in this novel about the forces that so often threaten us into silence and the struggle to find a voice anyway.
(See my full review at Foreword.)
(See my full review at Foreword.)
July 14, 2016
A very good read. I'm glad it ended the way it did. Any other way and it would not have been worth reading. Job well done.
February 11, 2019
This book was recommended by a friend and that is why I took a chance and read outside of my regular genres. And I'm glad I did!
The story is about Stella and Hayden and the tragic to triumph story that they both were experiencing. I enjoyed that we were able to hear from both of their POVs. I loved that as we read some of the inner dialogue it was written like musical staccato measures that I felt referred back to the musician in both of them.
My favorite part was the effort in re-creating your dreams and the lessons that we learn when we are faced with life obstacles. I was in love with grandpa and Emerson, I wanted to hug them both!
The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is that I felt the depth of emotion/love/connection that Stella and Hayden were feeling for each other was unrealistic, especially at the very young ages of 15 and 17 and the length of time they knew each other.
Overall, the story kept me interested. And it was clean and you can recommended to anyone, even young teens.
The story is about Stella and Hayden and the tragic to triumph story that they both were experiencing. I enjoyed that we were able to hear from both of their POVs. I loved that as we read some of the inner dialogue it was written like musical staccato measures that I felt referred back to the musician in both of them.
My favorite part was the effort in re-creating your dreams and the lessons that we learn when we are faced with life obstacles. I was in love with grandpa and Emerson, I wanted to hug them both!
The only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is that I felt the depth of emotion/love/connection that Stella and Hayden were feeling for each other was unrealistic, especially at the very young ages of 15 and 17 and the length of time they knew each other.
Overall, the story kept me interested. And it was clean and you can recommended to anyone, even young teens.
February 20, 2022
i heavily disliked this book wow. The way the author writes just made me so mad. Like 1.) she used way too much punctuation, girl really thought she was making it more meaningful but it was just bad. 2.) omfg she used metaphors every other sentence it was so dumb. Like we don’t need a whole paragraph describing how the shirt was blue like sapphires or bringing in stuff that had nothing to do with it. It was just so dumb I have no other words. Also, she was so inconsistent like random things would happen and it was too fast. Overall just a bad book. Good idea, bad author
Last thing, she was also repetitive, i cannot count how many times they described his eyes like it’s just annoying
Last thing, she was also repetitive, i cannot count how many times they described his eyes like it’s just annoying
August 11, 2018
Stellanak az az alma, hogy hires enekesno legyen, de egy baleset miatt elveszti a hallasat. Orom az uromben, hogy kozben talalkozik egy fizikai es (foleg) lelki serulesekkel rendelkezo fiuval, aki megmutatja neki, mennyire teljes lehet az elet hangok nekul.
Igazi tiniregeny, nyari limonadenak tokeletes.
Igazi tiniregeny, nyari limonadenak tokeletes.
February 12, 2024
okay maybe it’s not as good as i remember… it’s cute but it’s predictable and boring.
May 23, 2021
The author had very good central themes and tied everything together throughout the story.
September 29, 2019
Nem állítanám, hogy nem érintett meg a történet, be is szippantott kezdetben. Aztán valahogy kiestem a hangulatból, túl sok lett és túl szép. Túl értelmesek és empatikusak a főszereplők, túl megértők a szülők, túl könnyen elsimulók a konfliktusok. Fontos dolgokról szól: elfogadásról, türelemről, kitartásról, bátorságról, a kis dolgok megbecsüléséről – ifjúsági regénynek remek. Kevesebb líra és némi humor azért jót tett volna neki, de nekem biztosan.
July 16, 2015
*** A 3.4 Review as posted on KindleObsessed blog ***
Silence is defined as: the complete absence of sound.
For the majority of us, we have never truly experienced silence. We can “be still” and “be quiet” but true silence is unfathomable, incomprehensible, a mystery. The world we live in is one MADE of sound. Even in the quietest of places ambient noise encircles us, adds depth to our surroundings. It’s what we KNOW.
But what if, in the blink of an eye, all that changed?
What if…in one second, one twists of fate, one unhappy accident your world morphed from one of music and laughter into one of abrupt silence?
Would you be able to handle it? Would losing such an important sense send you into a tailspin?
Or…
Would experiencing “true” silence for the very first time bring you to life?
Deborah Lytton explores these questions and more inside her novel “Silence.”
"Love is blind, but it’s also deaf. Stella was born to sing. Someday Broadway. Even though she’s only a sophomore at a new high school, her voice has given her the status as a “cool kid.” But everything changes when a tragic accident renders her deaf. She can’t hear herself sing not to mention speak. She can’t hear anything. Silence. What happens when everything you’ve dreamed of and hoped for is shattered in a single moment?
Enter Hayden, the boy with blond curls who stutters. He’s treated like an outcast because he’s not “normal.” And, yet, Stella feels an attraction to him that she can’t explain. As Hayden reaches out to help Stella discover a world without sound, his own tragic past warns him to keep a distance. But their connection is undeniable. Can the boy who stutters and the girl who’s deaf ever find a happily-ever-after? Silence is a story of friendship and hope with a lesson that sometimes it takes a tragedy to help us find and appreciate beauty and love in unexpected place."
Much like Benway’s “Emmy and Oliver” “Silence” is a very straight forward/sweet love story between two teens that find themselves in the middle of very unfortunate circumstances.
Stella (one of the two narrative voices inside of “Silence”) starts the book as your every day (predictable whiney, obnoxiously unhappy) teenage girl. If I’m being honest, I despised her a little at the forefront of this novel. Though seemingly “shy” she also exudes this level of arrogant flippancy that drove me crazy. She would make snide comments about her best friend Lily only to turn around and exhibit the same behavior. It was a bit of a turn off. Thankfully, Stella goes through a character development 180 after her accident (mostly due to the help of Hayden) and her personality, actions and motives become much more truthful, and…well…like-able. (Which I – personally – always find to be a positive attribute in a protagonist.) Her growth (and Hayden’s as well) drive the story forward.
As for Hayden, he was ALWAYS like-able. A little down in the dumps when it comes to self-esteem, but even that seemed to be a natural response to his horrific upbringing. (Side note: I have never wanted to punch a fictional mother as much as Hayden’s. Ever. I’m fairly certain my face turned red and I started speaking in some sort of alien tongue vaguely disguised as anger.) Unlike Stella, Hayden’s journey is an old one. Abused as a child he used vocal silence as a way to escape. Not speaking meant not condemning. (Not wise, but…there you have it.) During his time of silence though, he learned a lot about the way the world works. He discovered what makes people operate, respond, and because of this insight he decides instantly that these too are lesson Stella would benefit from. The “Education of living outside of yourself” if you will.
Life I said before, the pair entwined (Stella and Hayden) tell a simple yet beautiful love story. A story that is NOT based on misguided teenage emotions like lust and popularity but instead faith, self-discovery and genuine compassion for someone else’s circumstances and heart. In short, it made for an interesting read.
It’s not a fast paced novel, but it is an easy one quick on. (Tapping out at a little over 300 pages.) And even though I believe there is an older niche (aka: adults) that would enjoy this novel, I feel that younger audiences might benefit more from the lesson found between its pages.
Sarah Dessen fans need apply, everyone else…I recommend sampling before buying.
Happy Reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: “Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing. And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb. And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.” – Khalil Gibran
Silence is defined as: the complete absence of sound.
For the majority of us, we have never truly experienced silence. We can “be still” and “be quiet” but true silence is unfathomable, incomprehensible, a mystery. The world we live in is one MADE of sound. Even in the quietest of places ambient noise encircles us, adds depth to our surroundings. It’s what we KNOW.
But what if, in the blink of an eye, all that changed?
What if…in one second, one twists of fate, one unhappy accident your world morphed from one of music and laughter into one of abrupt silence?
Would you be able to handle it? Would losing such an important sense send you into a tailspin?
Or…
Would experiencing “true” silence for the very first time bring you to life?
Deborah Lytton explores these questions and more inside her novel “Silence.”
"Love is blind, but it’s also deaf. Stella was born to sing. Someday Broadway. Even though she’s only a sophomore at a new high school, her voice has given her the status as a “cool kid.” But everything changes when a tragic accident renders her deaf. She can’t hear herself sing not to mention speak. She can’t hear anything. Silence. What happens when everything you’ve dreamed of and hoped for is shattered in a single moment?
Enter Hayden, the boy with blond curls who stutters. He’s treated like an outcast because he’s not “normal.” And, yet, Stella feels an attraction to him that she can’t explain. As Hayden reaches out to help Stella discover a world without sound, his own tragic past warns him to keep a distance. But their connection is undeniable. Can the boy who stutters and the girl who’s deaf ever find a happily-ever-after? Silence is a story of friendship and hope with a lesson that sometimes it takes a tragedy to help us find and appreciate beauty and love in unexpected place."
Much like Benway’s “Emmy and Oliver” “Silence” is a very straight forward/sweet love story between two teens that find themselves in the middle of very unfortunate circumstances.
Stella (one of the two narrative voices inside of “Silence”) starts the book as your every day (predictable whiney, obnoxiously unhappy) teenage girl. If I’m being honest, I despised her a little at the forefront of this novel. Though seemingly “shy” she also exudes this level of arrogant flippancy that drove me crazy. She would make snide comments about her best friend Lily only to turn around and exhibit the same behavior. It was a bit of a turn off. Thankfully, Stella goes through a character development 180 after her accident (mostly due to the help of Hayden) and her personality, actions and motives become much more truthful, and…well…like-able. (Which I – personally – always find to be a positive attribute in a protagonist.) Her growth (and Hayden’s as well) drive the story forward.
As for Hayden, he was ALWAYS like-able. A little down in the dumps when it comes to self-esteem, but even that seemed to be a natural response to his horrific upbringing. (Side note: I have never wanted to punch a fictional mother as much as Hayden’s. Ever. I’m fairly certain my face turned red and I started speaking in some sort of alien tongue vaguely disguised as anger.) Unlike Stella, Hayden’s journey is an old one. Abused as a child he used vocal silence as a way to escape. Not speaking meant not condemning. (Not wise, but…there you have it.) During his time of silence though, he learned a lot about the way the world works. He discovered what makes people operate, respond, and because of this insight he decides instantly that these too are lesson Stella would benefit from. The “Education of living outside of yourself” if you will.
Life I said before, the pair entwined (Stella and Hayden) tell a simple yet beautiful love story. A story that is NOT based on misguided teenage emotions like lust and popularity but instead faith, self-discovery and genuine compassion for someone else’s circumstances and heart. In short, it made for an interesting read.
It’s not a fast paced novel, but it is an easy one quick on. (Tapping out at a little over 300 pages.) And even though I believe there is an older niche (aka: adults) that would enjoy this novel, I feel that younger audiences might benefit more from the lesson found between its pages.
Sarah Dessen fans need apply, everyone else…I recommend sampling before buying.
Happy Reading my fellow Kindle-ites and remember: “Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing. And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb. And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.” – Khalil Gibran
February 6, 2017
**Spoiler Alert**
"Trust your heart. Trust me."
The genres of Silence are drama, romance, and realistic fiction. Mostly because there is a character who can't hear and a character who stutters, they both feel an unexplainable connection between each other. I really liked this book. I think the thing I loved most was how good quotes it produces. That's one reason why I give this book 5 full stars.
Stella goes to Richmond High School, has friends, and a great voice. Hayden is considered an outcast, he stutters, and is the kid who no one wants to sit with at lunch. While at party Stella gets pushed into a pool and hits her head at the bottom causing her to not have the ability to hear. Hayden saves her life and makes a promise with Stella, he will show her what she can do without her hearing for 17 days before a hearing appointment that will tell if she will be able to hear again. Many conflicts are presented in this book such as person vs. person, person vs. fate, and person vs. self. The main one I think is person vs. self because Stella has a hard time being able to live the life she wanted without her hearing. The theme of this book is suffering because Hayden has a hard time with his family and so does Stella, Stella also has a hard time getting her life together, there is a lot of suffering presented in this book.
**Spoiler Alert**
The title relates to the book because Stella is the main character, and she can't hear, and as she says she lives in her own little bubble full of silence which is the title of the book, Silence. Another way the title relates to the book is because the main idea is Hayden keeping his promise of 17 days. So Hayden has to come up with ways to have a good life without the ability to hear for he can show Stella that not being able to hear is not the end of her life. Throughout the book there is another theme which is who you can rely on because when Stella went back to school she realized who she can trust like her sister , Hayden, and her mom. They are the ones who never leave here side no matter what she was going through.
**Spoiler Alert**
I was surprised when Hayden kind of expected for Stella to just forget him and go back to her normal life, because most people would leave him and forget it all. Even after all they been through and even if it meant him getting hurt. Then I felt really satisfied how she tells him that she won't forget him and she will always stay with him. She also says that she won't go back to the life she had because she has changed and because she has fallen in love with him and now knows how much they both really need each other.
I give this book five stars because I found it really interesting. I found it interesting because there are regular kids that go through difficult times like losing one of their senses or having disabilities yet they are able to get back up and have a good life. If you like romance than this is definitely a book for you because it is not like other books were the two people who like each other get separated or have a perfect relationship. The relationship in this book is like a relationship many people have, one that has its up and downs. Its was the journey not the destination.
"Trust your heart. Trust me."
The genres of Silence are drama, romance, and realistic fiction. Mostly because there is a character who can't hear and a character who stutters, they both feel an unexplainable connection between each other. I really liked this book. I think the thing I loved most was how good quotes it produces. That's one reason why I give this book 5 full stars.
Stella goes to Richmond High School, has friends, and a great voice. Hayden is considered an outcast, he stutters, and is the kid who no one wants to sit with at lunch. While at party Stella gets pushed into a pool and hits her head at the bottom causing her to not have the ability to hear. Hayden saves her life and makes a promise with Stella, he will show her what she can do without her hearing for 17 days before a hearing appointment that will tell if she will be able to hear again. Many conflicts are presented in this book such as person vs. person, person vs. fate, and person vs. self. The main one I think is person vs. self because Stella has a hard time being able to live the life she wanted without her hearing. The theme of this book is suffering because Hayden has a hard time with his family and so does Stella, Stella also has a hard time getting her life together, there is a lot of suffering presented in this book.
**Spoiler Alert**
The title relates to the book because Stella is the main character, and she can't hear, and as she says she lives in her own little bubble full of silence which is the title of the book, Silence. Another way the title relates to the book is because the main idea is Hayden keeping his promise of 17 days. So Hayden has to come up with ways to have a good life without the ability to hear for he can show Stella that not being able to hear is not the end of her life. Throughout the book there is another theme which is who you can rely on because when Stella went back to school she realized who she can trust like her sister , Hayden, and her mom. They are the ones who never leave here side no matter what she was going through.
**Spoiler Alert**
I was surprised when Hayden kind of expected for Stella to just forget him and go back to her normal life, because most people would leave him and forget it all. Even after all they been through and even if it meant him getting hurt. Then I felt really satisfied how she tells him that she won't forget him and she will always stay with him. She also says that she won't go back to the life she had because she has changed and because she has fallen in love with him and now knows how much they both really need each other.
I give this book five stars because I found it really interesting. I found it interesting because there are regular kids that go through difficult times like losing one of their senses or having disabilities yet they are able to get back up and have a good life. If you like romance than this is definitely a book for you because it is not like other books were the two people who like each other get separated or have a perfect relationship. The relationship in this book is like a relationship many people have, one that has its up and downs. Its was the journey not the destination.
June 4, 2015
I received this book as a "First Reads Giveaway." I love it! I have never read anything like it as far as the writing style goes but I enjoyed it. It was a cute and touching story. But I think what I enjoyed most about it is it taught me some things that will stay with me for awhile. I am not deaf but I do have a disability. I am paralyzed from the waist down. I believe at times that society as well as we as individuals limit ourselves based on our abilities or disabilities especially when they're obvious. We put ourselves in a "box"... how we see ourselves and in some ways what is expected of us based on our limitations We think, "Oh I have this limitation so I could never do that...or I can only do such and such based on what we believe our limitations are. I loved that Stella was taught by Hayden and by her own experiences to overcome in many ways what she "believed" were limitations. There will always be things we can't do, disabled or not but there's so much we can do and each of us has an important part to play. I think this book changed my perspective and helped me to think about how I've been limiting myself and what I can do to change my perspective. Leave the "box" I've put myself in often because of fears and insecurities. We all have fears, but the thing about fear is it can be overcome. I loved that both Stella and Hayden had things that they needed to overcome, fears, insecurities, feeling broken and they served a valuable purpose in each other's lives. It wasn't just the "perfect" helping the "imperfect. They both learned to go outside of themselves and their "box" and become the person they needed to be. They accepted possible limitations without letting themselves be defined by them. I often forget that what we can and can't do doesn't have to define us. It's who we are and how we can bless the lives of other people. Both Stella and Hayden blessed each other' lives. There were also other characters in the book I loved who showed love and acceptance in difficult situations. I think we all need that. I would recommend this book to anyone...but especially those who may feel "broken" or "disabled" in anyway. We can achieve things beyond or despite limitations and find joy in the journey. This book had a great message as far as I'm concerned. Plus it was just a fun and cute read.
July 27, 2015
A young adult novel that tells the story of a singer that has her heart set on Broadway, but an unexpected accident finds her looking at an alternative future. Landing a lead role at her local school play, Stella finally feels she is on the path of her dream career. Stella learns the inner world of the drama class and finds herself rising in popularity at the school. Unexpectedly a quiet boy grabs her attention, for he is one that plays the piano at her rehearsals. His name is Hayden and he is always quiet. He is an observer of the world and far too wise for his age. He does notice Stella, just as she has noticed him. The night before Stella’s play is to open, she suffers a horrible head injury and Hayden is her rescuer. From that moment on they are inseparable, but everything has changed for Stella. Gone is her hearing and somehow Hayden is going to have to show her that the world is still worth living for.
I enjoyed this book very much. I thought the story was well developed and the characters grew with it. I have a child that will be getting hearing aids after surgery this fall, so this story was very sweet to read. I felt this book was very uplifting and the author really wanted to give the reader an encouraging message. A message that spoke about how being different did not bring limitations. Stella felt that she was limited by her new found disability, but through Hayden’s encouragement she realized she could do almost everything she could before and then some. I strongly recommend this book to everyone and I think it is a great read for all young adult readers. I have to recommend this to the special needs community and the homeschoolers as well. I want to thank both the author and goodreads for sending me this book to review in a giveaway. It was much appreciated and I enjoyed it very much. I plan on handing it to my fifteen year old to read next.
I enjoyed this book very much. I thought the story was well developed and the characters grew with it. I have a child that will be getting hearing aids after surgery this fall, so this story was very sweet to read. I felt this book was very uplifting and the author really wanted to give the reader an encouraging message. A message that spoke about how being different did not bring limitations. Stella felt that she was limited by her new found disability, but through Hayden’s encouragement she realized she could do almost everything she could before and then some. I strongly recommend this book to everyone and I think it is a great read for all young adult readers. I have to recommend this to the special needs community and the homeschoolers as well. I want to thank both the author and goodreads for sending me this book to review in a giveaway. It was much appreciated and I enjoyed it very much. I plan on handing it to my fifteen year old to read next.
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