“One line from Willy Conley’s story 'Characters in El Paso' would sum up this whole collection and the breadth of Conley’s work: 'Hearing people worldwide need to see that deaf people lead normal lives and they could even be artists on the stage'—or on film, or on the page. Conley’s creative pieces within these pages showcase his work as a playwright, essayist, short story writer, and photographer. He advocates directly in essays and by example in his own art for deaf artists to have access to platforms for their work—and for how this benefits everyone interested in the arts.”

“Willy Conley is a gifted Deaf writer, photographer, and actor who shares his memories with readers in his latest book. Conley reflects on his career beginning with his studies at NTID, where he found his identity as a Deaf person and honed his professional photography skills. Many of the stories he shares are common for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals who are educated in mainstream settings and serve as a powerful reminder that we have work to do to improve the inclusion of Deaf students in these settings. A recommended read for all who are engaged in preparing future generations of Deaf students to excel and thrive.”