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A review by sarah_faichney
Hear No Evil by Sarah Smith
5.0
What a debut from Sarah Smith! The writing talent coming out of Scotland at the moment is immense and Smith is right up there with the best.
Based on a real case, and featuring some real characters from history, "Hear No Evil" is a fictionalised account of the trial of Jean Campbell at the High Court in Edinburgh in 1817 - a time when women were under the guardianship of either their fathers or husbands. Smith writes beautifully and has clearly researched her subject extensively, displaying great attention to detail.
Through the inclusion of sign language, and discussion around the provisions for deaf people at the time, I gained a valuable insight into the deaf community. I was also fascinated to learn about Robert Kinniburgh and the Deaf and Dumb School in Edinburgh. I found the process of development, and standardisation, of sign language extremely interesting, as well as the links between signing and etymology.
I enjoyed the author's use of some Scots words and phrases, some of which I haven't heard in years. Smith's vividly painted locations really brought the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh to life. I could almost smell the animal carcasses on King St! The author also illustrates, with sensitivity, the effects of privation and exclusion.
Jean Campbell's case is intriguing, the cast of supporting characters diverse and well-drawn. Smith's compassion for Jean really comes through. "Hear No Evil" is a book about preconceptions and prejudices, and ultimately about justice. I found it an incredibly engaging, moving novel and I expect it will be a huge hit!
Based on a real case, and featuring some real characters from history, "Hear No Evil" is a fictionalised account of the trial of Jean Campbell at the High Court in Edinburgh in 1817 - a time when women were under the guardianship of either their fathers or husbands. Smith writes beautifully and has clearly researched her subject extensively, displaying great attention to detail.
Through the inclusion of sign language, and discussion around the provisions for deaf people at the time, I gained a valuable insight into the deaf community. I was also fascinated to learn about Robert Kinniburgh and the Deaf and Dumb School in Edinburgh. I found the process of development, and standardisation, of sign language extremely interesting, as well as the links between signing and etymology.
I enjoyed the author's use of some Scots words and phrases, some of which I haven't heard in years. Smith's vividly painted locations really brought the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh to life. I could almost smell the animal carcasses on King St! The author also illustrates, with sensitivity, the effects of privation and exclusion.
Jean Campbell's case is intriguing, the cast of supporting characters diverse and well-drawn. Smith's compassion for Jean really comes through. "Hear No Evil" is a book about preconceptions and prejudices, and ultimately about justice. I found it an incredibly engaging, moving novel and I expect it will be a huge hit!