The author of the children’s book series, Shelly’s Adventures, is working to bridge the gap between the deaf and hearing.

Kentrell Martin was born and raised in Jacksonville, but he has called Tampa Bay home for over a decade. Sign language has been a part of Martin’s entire life.

“Growing up with a deaf brother, you always notice how others are staring and looking because it’s different,” Martin said.

With Martin’s brother being hearing impaired, signing became his second language. It was common inside of his house. However, it was when they stepped outside of their home when the stares and judgement would arise.

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