I believe in the power of authentic representation in literature and media. My Deaf sensitivity reading services are designed to help authors, publishers, and creators accurately and respectfully portray Deaf characters, culture, and experiences.

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Current Status: Open for Requests

To ensure a smooth process, I recommend reaching out at least 5 weeks before any deadlines.​

 

Welcome! I am currently accepting requests for non-urgent sensitivity reading services. Please read this entire page before submitting a request or question. 

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​What is a Deaf Sensitivity Reader?

A deaf sensitivity reader reviews your manuscript or project to ensure respectful and accurate representation of the nuances of Deaf identity, language, and culture. This is not the same as a beta reader; sensitivity reading focuses on portraying communities authentically. While I may offer beta reading services in the future, my primary focus right now is on sensitivity reading.

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As a sensitivity reader, I will read your manuscript thoroughly, making annotations and compiling a report that highlights issues I notice, complete with explanations. These issues can range from specific problematic words to broader concerns like harmful tropes in character arcs or plot points. I will also provide suggestions for addressing these issues, which may involve significant revisions in some cases.

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Feedback will be provided on various aspects including but not limited to: 

• Character Representation: Ensuring Deaf characters are portrayed with depth and authenticity.

• Language and Communication: Offering insights on the use of sign language, translation technology, and communication barriers.

• Cultural Nuances: Highlighting important aspects of Deaf culture, community, and identity, including the concepts of "big D" and "little d."

• Accessibility Considerations: Addressing the challenges Deaf individuals may face in different contexts and how these are represented in your work.

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For more information about the role and limitations of sensitivity readers, I recommend this Salon article and this Walrus article.

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Credentials and Experience

Formal Credentials:

• Bachelor of Arts in French Linguistics with a minor in English (Creative Writing) from the University of Alabama (Spring 2010)

  • Major GPA: 3.8/4.0

  • Relevant Coursework: Creative Writing, Introduction to the Study of Language, Linguistics of French Language, 

• ASL 1 , ASL 2, ASL 3

• Semester-long study abroad in Poitiers, France

• Tutored in English (grammar) and ASL (conversational)

• Experience with Inspire, a Deaf camp, in 2017-2018

 

Informal Credentials:

• 30+ years of life experience as hard-of-hearing (hearing loss around age 2)

• 15+ years of involvement in the Deaf community and using Sign Language

• Extensive reading in Deaf studies and linguistics

• Participation in Deaf community activities (deaf camps, ASL classes, Silent Dinners, online ASL Book club, etc.)

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Areas of Expertise

My expertise focuses on Deaf culture and experiences. As a sensitivity reader, I can provide insights into the diverse experiences and identities within the Deaf community. Here are some key areas I cover:

• Deaf and/or hard-of-hearing characters

• Deaf culture, community, services, and identity

• American Sign Language and its variations (e.g., Signed Exact English, Pidgin Signed English, Cued Speech)

• Multilingualism and code-switching

 

While I can address a range of problematic content (e.g., ableism, classism), my insights are limited to my personal experiences. After your request, we can discuss which elements I feel comfortable addressing and whether you should seek additional sensitivity readers for other aspects.​

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Past Clients

• Andrea Anderson

• Samantha Christy

• Rie Neal

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Reading Preferences

• Young Adult: Any genre

• Middle Grade: Any genre

• New Adult/Adult: Any genre except erotica and non-fiction

 

Pricing

I charge rates that reflect my specialized knowledge and experience. Here’s a breakdown of my starting rates, which are flexible and negotiable:

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• 5,000 words and under: $100 flat rate

• 5,001-10,000 words: $100 + ($0.01 per additional word)

• 10,001-30,000 words: $150 + ($0.0075 per additional word)

• 30,001 words and over: $300 + ($0.005 per additional word)

 

I offer discounts - please contact for more information.​

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Payment Terms and Conditions

 

I require either a deposit of half of the payment before starting services or you can go ahead with a full payment but I can create a payment schedule if financial difficulties arise. Payment options include:

• PayPal (3% fee added)

• Venmo

• Check

 

Payment is nonrefundable unless I am unable to complete the reading, in which case I will prorate based on the work done.

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Privacy Terms and Conditions

My role as a sensitivity reader does not endorse your work or guarantee it is free from biases. I will keep your manuscript confidential and will seek your permission before consulting others for clarification. You may include my name in your acknowledgments if your manuscript is published.

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Request Follow-Up

You can expect a response within 3-5 business days regarding your request. If I haven’t replied, please feel free to follow up. Upon acceptance, we will discuss pricing and payment options. If I must reject your request, I will provide clear reasoning.

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The  Process

​Here is short outline of my Deaf Sensitivity Reading process:

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1. Initial Consultation: Reach out to discuss your project and specific needs via email.

2. Submission: Once agreed, you will send me your manuscript or material for review.

3. Review: I will evaluate your work and provide feedback, including comments and suggestions, along with a report.

4. Follow-Up: I offer the opportunity for further discussion or clarification of my feedback after you review the work.

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