CHILDREN OF A LESSER GOD - PLAYBILL - JANUARY 1981 (edition 1981)

Target audience: Ages 14 and up

The play focuses on the romance and marriage between a sensitive but spirited deaf girl, Sarah, and her devoted (and hearing) young speech therapist, James, whom she meets at a school for the deaf. At first, their relationship seems happy as they try to understand each other's needs and feelings. As the relationship progresses, however, Sarah becomes adamant for the rights of the deaf and rejects indications that is being patronized and pitied. In the end, the gap between sound and silence is too vast to cross. But the great love between Sarah and James holds hope of reconciliation.

The subject of the play is poignant and powerful: a hearing-impaired woman's struggle for acceptance in a hearing world. It is deeply moving and beautifully written. The most memorable quote from Sarah: "It is a silence full of sound." After reading the play, I find it difficult to think about people with hearing disabilities in quite the same way. It leaves a huge impact on me. The play, however, is a little confusing because it has many scenes taking place at the same time. In addition, the romance between James and Sarah moves a little too rapidly. Fortunately, the flaws are too few to shadow the play's greatness. It is an eye-opener and I highly recommend it in every type of library.