Jennifer Stewart publishes children’s book, honoring her late father’s legacy
Creating the Deaf Studies Certificate program at HFC has been one of the most rewarding aspects of HFC American Sign Language instructor Jennifer Stewart’s career.
Another rewarding aspect has been the recent publication of her children’s book called Deaf, like David, illustrated by Courtney Crider. Her father, the late Dr. David Stewart, who was the Director of the Deaf Education Graduate Program at Michigan State University for 18 years, served as the driving force behind Deaf, like David.
“The inspiration came from my father and the life he lived. This book is about how ASL changed my dad’s life drastically – how he didn’t know it and how once he learned it, everything changed for the better,” said Stewart. “As a child, I never saw books that portrayed Deaf individuals as leaders, professionals, parents, and role models. I wanted to create a story that celebrates Deaf identity and helps children understand that deafness is not something that limits a person. The book is both a tribute to my father and a celebration of the Deaf community as a whole.”
While the story is written for children, it reflects many of the values, experiences, and lessons her father shared with her throughout his life, Stewart noted.
“The character, David, is my father. This was my way of honoring his legacy and ensuring that his impact continues to reach future generations,” she said. “At its heart, Deaf, like David is a story about belonging, identity, and celebrating differences. It introduces children to a Deaf character who is proud of who he is and encourages readers to see that our adversity is our strength. The book promotes empathy, inclusion, and respect while helping children understand Deaf culture in a positive and meaningful way.”
Trilingual format makes book accessible to a wider audience
Working with Crider was a wonderful experience for Stewart.
“Courtney shared my vision of creating a story that was both educational and engaging for children,” said Stewart. “Her creativity and collaboration helped bring the story to life in a way that feels authentic, heartfelt, and accessible to families from many different backgrounds. She is also a Michigan resident and was my daughter's art teacher – that’s how we connected!”
Deaf, like David is written in English and Spanish, and has ASL interpretation by Deaf interpreter Valentino Ballentine. Stewart explained the reasoning behind that.
“Accessibility and inclusion were important goals from the beginning,” explained Stewart. “As an educator, I work with families and students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Including Spanish allows the book to reach more children and families, while incorporating ASL introduces readers to a visual language and the rich culture of the Deaf community. We wanted every child to feel represented and included.”
She continued: “What makes Deaf, like David unique is that it combines authentic Deaf representation, multiple languages, and a personal story rooted in real-life experiences. This is not simply a story about a Deaf character; it is inspired by the life of a Deaf man who broke barriers and positively impacted thousands of people. The trilingual format also helps make the book accessible to a wider audience. I believe this is the first ever book of its kind.”
Her father’s profound influence
Born in Lansing, Stewart is the third of four children and the youngest daughter. She lives in Metro Detroit. She has two children and is also a foster parent.
“Family has always been the foundation of who I am and the reason I am passionate about creating a more inclusive world for children of all backgrounds,” she said.
After graduating from Mason High School, Stewart enrolled in Sinclair Community College in Dayton, OH, where she earned her associate degree in sign language interpreting. She later earned her bachelor’s degree in ASL interpreting and Deaf studies from Siena Heights University. She earned her master’s degree in special education and her certification in teaching Deaf and hard of hearing students from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia.
In addition to her degrees, Stewart has completed extensive coursework and professional development in Deaf education, language acquisition, accessibility, and early childhood education through the American Sign Language Teachers Association. She also completed other professional development programs in her field.
Before joining HFC in 2015, Stewart worked in a variety of educational settings, including early childhood education, special education, Deaf education, and autism support classrooms. She also worked professionally as an ASL interpreter in the United States and Canada. Those experiences gave her a unique perspective on language access, inclusion, and the importance of communication for all learners.
“My father dedicated his life to education, advocacy, and advancing opportunities for Deaf individuals,” said Stewart. “Growing up as his daughter gave me a front-row seat to the challenges Deaf people often face, and also to the incredible resilience, determination, and accomplishments within the Deaf community. He inspired me to become an educator, advocate, and lifelong learner. His influence can be found in nearly everything I do.”
Differences should be celebrated, not feared
Stewart has authored educational materials and ASL resources, including ASL: A Beginner's Guide to American Sign Language, which she co-wrote with her father. She also penned The Magic of Simple Signing, which she self-published. Deaf, like David is her first children's book.
“Growing up as a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults), working as an interpreter, and becoming an educator shaped the message I wanted to share. I first wrote the book in my early 20s as I was grieving the loss of my father. From there, it took almost two decades to perfect and complete,” she said. “The most challenging part was balancing the deeply personal aspects of my father's story while creating a book that would resonate with young readers. I wanted to tell a meaningful story while keeping it engaging, hopeful, and accessible for children.”
The best part about writing Deaf, like David was being able to honor her father, celebrate the Deaf community, and pass down the story of his legacy to his grandchildren.
“Knowing that Deaf children may see themselves reflected in the story and that hearing children may gain a greater understanding of Deaf culture makes the project incredibly meaningful to me,” explained Stewart. “I hope Deaf, like David helps children understand that differences should be celebrated, not feared. Growing up with a Deaf father shaped my life in countless positive ways, and this book is my opportunity to share that experience with others. If even one child walks away with a greater appreciation for Deaf culture, inclusion, or the importance of communication, then the book has accomplished its purpose.”