Deaf characters in novels, again

Colin Dexter and deaf character Nicholas Quinn

In a previous blog I mentioned listening to a radio play of the Morse story, ‘The Silent World of Nicholas Quinn’. I was incensed at the discrimination and ill-will aimed at the eponymous Mr Quinn because of his deafness, by his colleagues. When I found out that the author is deaf I was intrigued by his handling of the tale and decided to pick the book up when I saw it.

Unless I must have a certain book I chose from what’s on offer, that way I discover books I may not have read. I’ve just finished my first Morse novel and what a surprise, not only was Morse less grumpy than I’ve seen on TV – although I’ve never seen a whole episode – the treatment of the deaf person as written was made worse for the play.

I’m still puzzled about Quinn’s ability to use a phone and a certain plot twist, I won’t spoil the story by detailing why. I’m impressed by the description of Quinn’s discomfort, dread (?), at having to even use a phone, now there writes a deaf person.

There’s a few other points I’d love to mention but can’t so as not to spoil the story. For anyone involved with hearing loss I’d say this was an interesting read, if it wasn’t for the strong language. No prude me, I’m sure I‘ve heard a lot worse than gets in most books, it’s just that I don’t want to cause offence to anyone, so don’t read this one unless you are okay with strong language.

Romance novels aren’t on my reading list, but I did find some interesting discussion about deaf characters in books on http://dearauthor.com/features/essays/romances-and-deaf-characters . I don’t know the books mentioned but those who posted comments enjoyed reading them, well worth a look.