Effie is deaf. She communicates with American Sign Language, but unfortunately no one in her family has ever bothered to learn ASL. She manages by writing notes and pointing. She and her sister Deja have recently moved in with their father. He doesn't bother keeping food in the house or cleaning or doing laundry. Effie's life is a struggle.
At school Effie has a translator, Miss Kathy. She is worried about Effie but has a difficult time getting Effie to open up about the conditions at home. She knows something happened at Effie's mother's house which is why Effie and Deja moved in with their father.
Miss Kathy makes a surprise visit to see Effie. She brings a wonderful carry-out dinner. During the visit, she sees the poor conditions of the home and immediately steps in to help Effie. She suggests Effie come live with her, and much to Effie's surprise, her father agrees. Now Miss Kathy can work to make this temporary plan something more permanent.
Ann Clare LeZotte is also the author of the SHOW ME A SIGN trilogy. She uses her own experiences as a deaf person to give readers a realistic picture Effie's situation. Written in verse, DEER RUN HOME, is a quick and inspiring read.
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