Apple TV+

CODA

PG-13. Apple TV+ and in theaters now.
White teenager Ruby balances the pressure of work on the family fishing boat with school and dreams of a singing career, a life that might take her away from her Deaf parents. Marlee Matlin stars as Ruby’s mother in this moving, Oscar-winning film.

READ-ALIKES

Five Flavors of Dumb by Antony John. Dial. 2010.
Gr 9 Up–After her parents raid her college fund to pay for her younger sister’s cochlear implant, gutsy deaf teen Piper, who is white, talks her way into a job managing local rock band Dumb. This witty novel explores issues of deafness and music and features a strong, determined lead character.

Impossible Music by Sean Williams. Clarion. 2019.
Gr 9 Up–When white Australian musician Simon suddenly loses his hearing after a stroke, he must figure out a new way to include music in his life. This thought-provoking, angst-filled novel explores what it means to redefine one’s passion. It will appeal to readers interested in the intersection between music and deafness.

The Victoria in My Head by Janelle Milanes. S. & S. 2017.
Gr 9 Up–Tired of living up to everyone’s expectations, Cuban-American 15-year-old Victoria decides to join a band in need of a lead singer in this musical romcom. Readers interested in stories of teens living their musical dreams will enjoy this sweet, funny story.