This novel has a strong premise and makes a concerted effort at representation. What it lacks is nuance. Our protagonist views the world through a very narrow focus and refuses to see any other viewpoints. He's a frustrating character and can be a bit off-putting. The plot, too, lacks complexity. We can guess pretty early on that this experimental program is having a negative affect on the population. It keeps the action moving, though. The physical threat is real enough to be thrilling to young readers without becoming overly intense. There are a few scenes that sensitive readers will find upsetting, so be forewarned. The plot pays off in a satisfying way it just requires a little patience to get there.

This book is a great disability representation, especially for the deaf community, but it being an eco-thriller felt really out of place. I felt so engaged with the main character and his struggles with his family and his disability, but when it came to the mad scientist and the windmills that were turning everyone crazy, that's where it lost me.

Honestly, though, I would recommend this book solely for the main character's arc. How he accepts his disability and reconnects with his family is an engaging narrative. Just... the rest isn't.