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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Train Go Sorry summary
Leah Hager Cohen
Brief summary
Train Go Sorry is a memoir by Leah Hager Cohen that explores the world of the Lexington School for the Deaf, examining the struggles and triumphs of the students and the Deaf community as they navigate a hearing-dominated society.
Table of Contents
Train Go Sorry
Summary of key ideas
A Journey into the Deaf World
In Train Go Sorry, author Leah Hager Cohen weaves her personal journey with the narrative of the Lexington School for the Deaf in Queens, New York, where her father serves as the superintendent. Set during a significant time of change in the deaf community, the book captures the struggles associated with deafness, battles for deaf rights and the nuances of Deaf culture.
The book opens with Cohen reminiscing her childhood, growing up on Lexington’s campus. She learns sign language before speaking and forms a bond with the deaf community. Meanwhile, the narrative also introduces Sofia, a Lexington student struggling with segments of American Sign Language and James, a Gallaudet University graduate struggling to integrate into the hearing world.
Deaf Culture and Misunderstandings
Cohen presents an intricate rendition of Deaf culture, contraposing it with the prevailing societal norms. She emphasizes how hearing people often misinterpret deafness as an impairment rather than a unique culture with its language. Through her first-hand experiences, she details the marginalization of deaf individuals and their fight for recognition and equality.
Through Sofia and James, Cohen portrays the realities faced by deaf individuals. Sofia, an immigrant, experiences challenges adjusting to the American deaf education system and society, while James navigates complex struggles between his personal and professional life, highlighting the struggles many deaf individuals encounter.
Transformations and Triumphs
The story unfolds during the Deaf President Now! protest, a pivotal moment in Deaf history. The Lex, too, is going through a transition, shifting from a nurturing voice-off community to accepting aids like cochlear implants, symbolizing larger changes in the deaf community’s views towards technology. During this transition, Sofia begins to adjust and progress in her language abilities.
James, on the other hand, starts teaching at 'The Lex' and finds his passion and a sense of belongingness. Cohen uses these triumphs to demonstrate the community's resilience and the potentialities unlocked when deaf individuals are given opportunities and acceptance.
Exploration of Identity and Acceptance
Cohen’s personal narrative intertwines with the accounts of the Lexington School and its students. She wrestles with her identity, caught between the Deaf and hearing worlds, and her guilt towards what she sees as her 'hearing privilege'.
By the end of Train Go Sorry, Cohen realizes that her path is forever entwined with Deaf culture. She arrives at a deeper understanding of Deaf life and reinforces the idea that the world needs to recognize and value the richness of Deaf culture, demonstrating that 'sorry' signifies not only regret but a longing for more inclusivity and understanding.
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What is Train Go Sorry about?
"Train Go Sorry" is a memoir by Leah Hager Cohen that delves into the world of the Lexington School for the Deaf in New York City. Through personal anecdotes and interviews, Cohen explores the challenges and triumphs of the deaf community, shedding light on the complexities of communication and the importance of understanding and acceptance. It offers a unique perspective on deaf culture and the power of language.
Train Go Sorry Review
Train Go Sorry (1994) is a poignant memoir that delves into the author's experiences growing up in a deaf community and the challenge of bridging the gap between the hearing and deaf worlds. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- It offers a deeply personal and insightful exploration of deaf culture and the struggles faced by the deaf community.
- The book sheds light on the power of communication and the importance of understanding and empathy in creating a more inclusive society.
- With its raw honesty and thought-provoking anecdotes, it captivates readers, providing a unique perspective that challenges common misconceptions about deafness and disability.
Who should read Train Go Sorry?
- People interested in the experiences of the deaf community
- Individuals curious about the challenges faced by deaf students in mainstream education
- Readers who appreciate personal narratives that shed light on the power of communication and understanding
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Train Go Sorry FAQs
What is the main message of Train Go Sorry?
Train Go Sorry is a moving account of deaf culture and the struggles faced by deaf individuals in a hearing world.
How long does it take to read Train Go Sorry?
The estimated reading time for Train Go Sorry varies, but the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Train Go Sorry a good book? Is it worth reading?
Train Go Sorry is a compelling read that offers insight into a unique perspective. It's definitely worth reading.
Who is the author of Train Go Sorry?
The author of Train Go Sorry is Leah Hager Cohen.
What to read after Train Go Sorry?
If you're wondering what to read next after Train Go Sorry, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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