Sky, the Deaf Home Run Hero by Mickey Carolan

Summary

Young Sky is a boy who was born deaf, but it doesn’t stop him from doing what he loves most: playing baseball. Eager and determined, he works hard on his skills until he notices that, swing after swing, every ball is hit, soaring out of the ballpark like an eagle…Sky has a superpower! Not hearing enables him to focus on the ball and hit home runs with ease. But when the bullies try to bring him down, baseball gives him the courage to face them and win them over, and “with every home run, a bully becomes a friend.”

Reaction

For a child, being able to relate to a character in a story is invaluable. Whether it's an Asian girl seeing an Asian story character or a boy with a physical disability identifying with a story character in a wheelchair, it means something and goes a long way to feel seen and included.

In the delightful new picture book, Sky, the Deaf Home Run Hero: A Lesson in Courage, the protagonist is a strong, brave, and positive boy who is deaf and doesn't let it stop him from doing what he loves: playing baseball. And not only that, but being deaf is his superpower in baseball -- it helps him concentrate and hit home run whoppers! This impresses even the bullies who have heckled him.

Author Mickey Carrolan's story is a wonderful opportunity to have a constructive social emotional learning dialogue about feeling different and also coping with bullies. It reminds young readers that with courage, they can face any obstacle or challenge that comes their way. A great resource for families and educators.