A review by oliviakt07
I Hear the Sunspot by Yuki Fumino

4.0

Oh, how much I loved this first volume in what is sure to be an enlightening series!

Yuki Fumino's "I Hear the Sunspot" shines a much needed spot light on the variety of methods and preferences those with hearing disabilities communicate with others in the hearing world. Many think that everyone who is deaf or hard of hearing already know sign language or how to read lips. More often than not this is not the case either due to the environment the person grew up in, or their own feelings about these methods.

Even though our lead does not feel 100% comfortable with the use of a visual or signed language, he self advocates for his preferred communication method. Anyone who knows or works with someone who is deaf/Deaf/H.O.H knows, respects, and celebrates this choice, even if they would use another method if they were in his shoes. And who knows, his method (like his hearing) could change just like those who are in the deaf/Deaf/Hard of Hearing community in real life. It is the joy of growing, you have more room to try something new and see how it works.

I cannot wait to start volume two, and see what happens between Kohei and Taichi. Not only in their understanding of how to communicate with one another, but also in their relationship as friends...or something more? While some might be interested for the romance, many will enjoy the series for the authentic look on disabilities and LGBTQ+ love.

I hope this book, like many, MANY others in the vast libraries of the world, cause you to better inform yourself so you can be the best inquirer and advocate you can be.