The Loudest Silence

Gr 7-10–Langford’s debut explores universal themes of grief, belonging, and anxiety. The story focuses on two high school juniors. Casey is a bisexual singer who has had a sudden loss of hearing. Hayden is a Cuban-Italian American aro-ace soccer captain trying to live up to his family’s legacy while coping with anxiety and hiding his passion for theater. The author’s own experience of hearing loss is incorporated into Casey’s character, and the text seamlessly includes ASL (American Sign Language) and SimCom (simultaneous communication, or speaking and signing at the same time). The plot brings experiences of D/deaf folks into more mainstream conversation and includes resources for readers. There is queer representation in the friend group, and the plot is mostly focused on friendship and community, not coming out. Also, there is a positive depiction of how to support someone experiencing anxiety as well as a positive depiction of parent support around seeking therapy.