"An inspiring tale of friendship, courage, and the power of empathy to transform a school community."
Moving to a new country is hard for anyone, but for Mai, it feels overwhelming. After emigrating from China, she not only has to adjust to a new culture but also navigate the world of sound through her cochlear implants. At her new school, the sounds are different, the faces are unfamiliar, and she worries that her differences might hold her back from making friends.
Then Mai meets Ted. Ted is fascinated by Mai's cochlear devices and wants to understand how they help her hear. Their curiosity and kindness spark a special friendship. With Ted's support, Mai starts to feel more confident, and together, they create the "friendship club"-a place where everyone feels welcome and included.
But when Mai faces bullying from classmates who don't understand her differences, Ted shows what it means to be a true friend. Together, they help their school become a more empathetic and inclusive place for everyone.
Written by Elizabeth Yeung, an Audiologist and Author with over 15 years of experience supporting children and adults with hearing loss, this heartwarming story is inspired by her passion for empowering kids with hearing devices and educating others about embracing diversity.
Perfect for readers aged 7-14, parents, and educators, this book is a celebration of kindness, inclusion, and the beauty of friendship.