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American Sign Language (ASL) is more than just a language—it’s a bridge to communication, connection, and culture. Author and educator Deb Myers understands this deeply. Having taught ASL for over 15 years, she has devoted her career to helping families of Deaf children foster meaningful communication. Now, she’s bringing that same passion to children’s literature with her debut book, WASH, the first in Winnie’s ASL Adventures series.
Deb’s mission is clear: to create engaging stories that not only entertain but also educate young readers on the importance of conceptually accurate ASL. In this interview, she shares the inspiration behind her series, her experiences growing up Deaf, and what’s next for Winnie’s adventures.
The Inspiration Behind WASH
Q: Congratulations on publishing your first children’s book in Winnie’s ASL Adventures! Can you tell us about WASH? What inspired you to write it, and how did you develop the story?
Deb: It was during COVID when I realized there were no children's books written specifically to introduce children to conceptually accurate ASL signs. At the time, I was teaching ASL to families of Deaf children, and parents would often ask, “Isn’t this the sign for that word?” I would explain that, while they weren’t wrong, the meaning depends on context. That’s when I started writing.
My books follow Winnie, a playful little fox, who goes on adventures with her grandparents. In WASH, Gramma asks Winnie to wash different things—until Winnie grows tired of helping. But in the end, she learns that washing can actually be fun!
Bridging the Gap Between Deaf and Hearing Families
Q: You are a passionate advocate for fostering communication between Deaf and hearing family members. How do you hope WASH will help bridge that gap?
Deb: I hope this book encourages families to sit and read together while learning ASL. Not only does it teach multiple signs for a single concept, but it also helps Deaf children understand the meaning behind words. Using the right sign is essential for effective communication.
Growing Up Deaf and the Importance of Language Access
Q: You’ve taught ASL for over fifteen years. Can you share your experience growing up Deaf? Was your family Deaf, and how did that shape your view of language and communication?
Deb: I was born Deaf to Deaf parents and am the oldest of three—my siblings are hearing. I was fortunate to be exposed to ASL from birth since both of my parents attended Deaf schools. However, my grandparents were not fluent in ASL. My maternal grandparents relied on homemade signs to communicate with my parents, and my paternal grandmother knew about 20 survival signs.
My paternal grandmother and I had a special bond, but because of the language barrier, we mostly wrote notes to each other at the kitchen table. Looking back, I wish I had been able to truly communicate with my grandparents. That’s why I am so passionate about teaching ASL to families—it changes lives. Seeing those “aha” moments when families begin to understand their Deaf loved ones is the most rewarding part of my work.
Illustrating ASL Accurately: Working with Deaf Illustrator Julie Bourne
Q: Working with Deaf illustrator Julie Bourne must have been a unique experience. How did your collaboration shape the visual style of the book and the way ASL is represented in the illustrations?
Deb: Working with Julie Bourne has been an incredible experience. She understands, uses, and values ASL as a cherished language and that shows in every illustration. The details in WASH reflect Deaf culture—from eye contact while signing to how the characters use both hands in communication. Julie and I work well together, sharing our visions and ideas.
The publisher I work with, Trudy Scruggs of Savory Press Publishing, is also Deaf. Having a Deaf publisher is a huge advantage because she understands my goals and vision for the series. Working with someone who speaks my language makes the entire process seamless.
Why Conceptually Accurate Signs Matter
Q: In WASH, you introduce readers to multiple ways of signing “wash.” Why is it important for young readers to understand that a word can have different meanings depending on the context?
Deb: Using conceptually accurate signs is essential for Deaf children to fully grasp meaning. Words in English often have multiple definitions, and the same is true for ASL. If I tell you, “I love running,” I would sign it one way. But if I use that same sign to say, “My nose is running,” it would look like my nose literally has legs and is running away! That’s why choosing the right sign matters—it enhances both comprehension and literacy.
What’s Next for Winnie’s ASL Adventures?
Q: What excites you most about the future of Winnie’s ASL Adventures? Can you give us a sneak peek into the next book?
Deb: I am most excited about helping Deaf children feel seen in literature. There are not enough books created for Deaf children. The more resources available, the more families can learn and grow together.
The response to WASH has been overwhelmingly positive! Readers keep asking if I will write more books and what the next word will be. I’ve already written the second book, but the next word is a surprise! I can share one hint: Granddad will be making his debut in this story. Julie is currently working on the illustrations, and I can’t wait to share it soon!
A Heartfelt Thank You to Deb Myers
A huge thank you to Deb Myers for sharing her journey, insights, and passion for ASL storytelling with us. Her dedication to bridging the communication gap between Deaf and hearing families is truly inspiring, and Winnie’s ASL Adventures is sure to make a meaningful impact on young readers.
We can’t wait to see what’s next for Winnie and Granddad and their exciting adventures in conceptually correct ASL!
For more information on Deb Myers and Winnie’s ASL Adventures, visit Savory Words Publishing. Follow Savory Publishing on Instagram: @savorywordspublishing
Find "WASH" on our ASL Picture Books Favorite Books Page.
About the Book
Format: Paperback, full color
Length: 28 pages
Published: October 2024
Language: English
ISBN: 979-8-9907693-0-4
Dimensions: 7.5x 0.2 x 9.25 inches
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Limitless Potential of ASL: ASL Picture Books Sign Language Blog is a platform that invites you to explore the world of American Sign Language and the Deaf community. The blog offers insights, author interviews, and educational materials for anyone interested in ASL education and Deaf culture. It's a valuable resource, whether you're new to ASL or a seasoned member of the Deaf community. Subscribe today for free to start your ASL journey with us!
Kathleen Marcath advocates for literacy, and the Deaf community is passionate about creating inclusive spaces through ASL Picture Books. With a B.A. in Deaf Studies and a deep love for storytelling, Kathleen works tirelessly to inspire young readers and empower educators.
When Kathleen isn’t writing, she is busy connecting with audiences through dynamic author visits—both virtual and in-person. These sessions bring ASL to life and leave lasting impressions on students, classrooms, libraries, and organizations.
Want to bring the magic of ASL Picture Books to your community? Schedule an author visit today! Whether you’re an educator, librarian, or parent, these visits are the perfect way to inspire children and celebrate Deaf culture through engaging stories and activities.
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