Makayla is excited for the new school year. Not just because she loves seeing her friends, but because her new friend Kyra will be in class too. Kyra is deaf, and while some students are unsure about how to interact with her, Kyra’s confidence and her mom’s classroom visit help them understand that communication comes in many forms. In No Words Needed, students learn about deafness, American Sign Language (ASL), and the power of empathy. Through Makayla and Kyra’s friendship, readers discover that being different doesn’t mean being distant, and that connection is built on kindness, not just conversation. This story is a fantastic resource for introducing children to inclusivity, disability awareness, and respectful curiosity. Ideal for classrooms, SEL programs, and family read-alouds. Written by Diana HutsellIllustrated by Rubina Akter