'This book is important, because we know that hearing loss is something that is simply not talked about enough' - Mark Atkinson, CEO of the Royal National Institute for the Deaf This is an all-you-need-to-know book about hearing loss and deafness, including facts, experiences and words of wisdom from experts at the RNID, audiologists, deaf activists and people who use and teach sign language. Having been on her own deaf journey, Samantha Baines has met wonderful, interesting, courageous people of all ages who also happen to be deaf. In this book, alongside the experts, she weaves together their insights and advice and, importantly, teaches those of us who aren't deaf, what it is like for those who are. Along the way, she looks at: * The first signs of hearing loss * What is tinnitus? * What to expect at a hearing test * Will I lose my job? * Am I disabled? * What are hearing aids and why do you need them * Top fears about hearing aids * Deaf dating * Lipreading * What is sign language? * What not to say to someone with hearing loss * And much more. 'This is the book I wish I could have bought when the audiologist told me I needed a hearing aid, and I hope it can help you understand this new world you are stepping into. When I was diagnosed with hearing loss, aged twenty-nine, it was a bit of a shock. Not even my mother could really help me with my feelings of premature ageing and 'otherness'. I wasn't expecting to find out that deafness can actually be a strength: it can change your life for the better like it has mine (plus you will get a third off public transport, cheap tickets at the theatre, and can listen to Britney songs via your hearing aid without anyone knowing!).

Welcome to the deaf club.'.