I love you.” What can I get you?” Let’s take a walk.” Wanting to say simple things like these but not being able to is frustrating and disheartening—but learning how to communicate can be easy and fun! This book is a basic guide to the alphabet, vocabulary, and techniques it takes to connect using American Sign Language. Whether signing out of necessity or learning for the sake of growing, you will enjoy this practical primer. After reading this book, you will be able to use American Sign Language in a social, educational, or professional setting. Whether the goal is to communicate with hearing-impaired grandparent, a child with special needs in school, or an infant, people learn sign language for many different reasons. Easy to read and reference—and complete with images and examples of common signs —this basic guide allows you to make a meaningful connection that’s otherwise impossible.

Irene Duke (Mashpee, MA) has been a professional instructor of American Sign Language for more than twenty years. She is the director of ASL programs at Massasoit College and in the Whitman-Hanson (Massachusetts) Regional School District. She establishes direct onsite ASL courses, workshops, and lectures throughout New England for educators, child-care providers, medical personnel, and special needs and community service organizations.