True Biz

True Biz, an ASL expression that means “seriously” or “real-talk,” is the title of Sara Nović’s coming-of-age novel published in 2022 by Penguin Random House. This sophomore novel was named one of the best books of the year by NPR, Publishers Weekly, and Booklist. Notably, Academy Award-winning actress Reese Witherspoon selected it for Reese’s Book Club, and The New York Times praised it as “moving, fast-paced, and spirited,” as well as “skillfully educational.” The book is currently being adapted for a television series starring Millicent Simmonds, a Deaf actor who is best known for her role in John Krasinski’s A Quiet Place film series. Simmonds will also serve as an executive producer on the project.

Plot Summary

Set in the fictional town of Colson, Ohio, the novel follows Charlie Serrano, a Deaf girl with newly divorced parents. Though the novel shifts points of view throughout, moving from one major character to another, Charlie is its central protagonist. The novel also includes inserted diagrams and informational texts regarding the conventions of ASL and facts about Deaf culture, history, and activism, both as related to the Deaf community and otherwise. Charlie experiences a series of significant life changes due to her parents’ separation.