Cece is a new kid at school. She’s also the only deaf kid. Young readers will recognize and identify with Cece’s struggles to fit in and make friends, and while her additional challenge may be unfamiliar, readers will certainly still empathize. Cece Bell’s graphic novel memoir—filled with bright illustrations and rabbit characters—starts by showing how she lost her hearing and acquired a clunky hearing aid called the Phonic Ear. The real action begins when Cece straps the Phonic Ear to her chest, finds herself imbued with super hearing, and becomes El Deafo (Amulet, $21.95 HB / $10.95 PB). Not only does the Phonic Ear amplify the teacher’s voice in the classroom, but Cece can also hear her teacher throughout the entire school. Although superheroes’ unique abilities make them awesome, they’re often lonely. Things start looking up, however, when Cece’s classmates learn of her unique superpower and she makes a true friend. Ages 8-12. HWP