Eat Dessert First by Michelle Paris (Book Review #1816)

“MOM DAD NOT HEAR” by Mickey Carolan offers a profound and heartwarming exploration into the life of a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA), providing powerful insights into leadership, communication, and the value of embracing one’s identity. Growing up in the 1980s in Saginaw, Michigan, Carolan was catapulted into adulthood from a young age, serving as the bridge between his Deaf parents and the hearing world. This unique upbringing laid the foundation for a memoir that is both enlightening and deeply moving.

Carolan’s narrative is rich with lessons learned from navigating two worlds, embodying the complexities of acting as an interpreter for his parents in scenarios ranging from the mundane to the critical. Through these experiences, he crafts thirty invaluable lessons on leadership, life, and love, each offering a fresh perspective on overcoming challenges and fostering effective communication.

What makes “MOM DAD NOT HEAR” particularly compelling is Carolan’s ability to draw wisdom from his lived experiences, translating them into actionable advice for both Deaf and hearing readers. His insights into managing finances, resisting distractions, and embracing advocacy are not only practical but also underscore the importance of understanding and empathy in all facets of life.

Carolan’s humor and candid observations provide a delightful balance to the book’s more profound themes. His reflections on his father’s wisdom and the sometimes humorous, sometimes baffling encounters with the hearing world, like the instance of being presented with a braille menu, illuminate the everyday realities of living in a Deaf family with warmth and wit.

At its heart, “MOM DAD NOT HEAR” is an uplifting journey through Carolan’s life, filled with anecdotes that span the spectrum of human emotion. From the pivotal moment of a misunderstood encounter with law enforcement at the tender age of four to navigating the challenges and joys of love and relationships, Carolan’s memoir is a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit.

Carolan reminds us that amidst the trials and tribulations of life, there is always a way forward, often found through improved communication and a deepened understanding of oneself and others. His book is not just a guide to leadership but a celebration of the richness of the CODA experience, offering a window into a world that bridges silence and sound.

“MOM DAD NOT HEAR” by Mickey Carolan is more than a memoir; it is an essential read for anyone looking to be inspired, learn, and see the beauty in our differences. Carolan’s journey from a young interpreter to a wise and compassionate leader shows us that we all have the potential to be someone’s superhero, to make a difference in our communities, and to choose paths that lead to understanding, love, and fulfillment.

Written by Jeyran Main

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