A Sign of Her Own by Sarah Marsh

 A Sign of Her Own illuminates the life of Alexander Graham Bell, particularly his development of Visible Speech for deaf-mute community. The narrative revolves around the fictional character of Ellen Lark, who, after losing her hearing to scarlet fever, becomes Bell’s star pupil.

Her journey, interwoven with Bell’s quest for his invention’s patent, is skillfully depicted through a dual timeline, highlighting her life and perceived betrayal by Bell.

The tale commences with Bell, now an inventor, arriving in England. He seeks Ellen’s assistance in promoting Visible Speech. This request unsettles Ellen, as her husband is unaware of their full history. This complexity deepens when Ellen is asked to mediate a dispute over the rightful ownership of the Telephone patents, a testament to her close work with Bell’s work.

Ellen’s auditory challenges began at age four. In an era when sign language was undervalued, her mother was adamant about her learning an alternative communication method. Consequently, Ellen attended an Oral School, and later continued her education under Professor Bell of Boston University, a prominent figure in deaf-mute education.

Within the constraints of society, Ellen had limited exposure to sign language. In a world tailored for the hearing, such forms of communication were deemed inferior. Ellen excelled in lip-reading, a skill that earned her considerable recognition.

At Bell’s school, sign language was strictly prohibited; his focus was on developing vocal skills and speech reading, confidences he shared with Ellen. He also advocated the use of notebooks as an effective communication tool.

Ellen’s reunion with Bell stirs internal conflict. She feels betrayed by his contribution to the telephone, believing it undermined the deaf community. Revealing the truth jeopardizes not only her engagement and future security but also conflicts with her mother’s dying wishes.

The narrative vividly portrays the era’s patent frenzy and societal attitudes towards deaf individuals. Ellen’s experiences underscore the isolation caused by communication barriers. The story questions the disregard for the preferences of the deaf community, highlighting the tiring nature of lip-reading and the effectiveness yet societal rejection of sign language.

Narrated with eloquence, A Sign of Her Own explores the protagonist’s dilemma and decision-making, presenting a compelling story that sheds light on the era’s conflicting circumstances.

There are moments when the chapters seem to blear, not sure which time line it is. Once, I paid attention to the beginning of the chapter it became clear. Chapter titled Lesson#... is past timeline. Chapter with a picture of a sign language is present timeline.

Review originally posted at mysteryandsuspense.com

Release date: Feb. 6, 2024

Source: Park Row; HarperCollins