Raised in Silence by Maria Gallucci
What growing up as a Child of Deaf Adults taught me about communication, culture, and connection.
At age five, Maria’s introduction to school was interpreting between her parents and teachers. By twelve, she was interpreting the family’s mortgage documents and medical conversations.
As a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA), her first language was ASL. She grew up fluent in two worlds—one Deaf, one hearing. As a result, her earliest lessons in empathy, advocacy, and presence came from inside her own home.
Raised in Silence might be Maria’s story, but it’s also a reflection of other CODAs.
This book is an invitation to listen more closely and build more authentic connections with people who communicate in ways you might not yet understand. It tells a powerful story of what happens when you allow yourself to see the world through the lens of inclusion, awareness, and deep understanding.
At our core, we all just want to be accepted and understood. This book will show you what happens when you do that for yourself and for others.
This Book Is for You If:
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You’re a parent, educator, or professional trying to build more inclusive spaces.
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You want to connect with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community with respect and ease.
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You love someone whose communication style is different from your own.
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You’ve ever felt caught between cultures, roles, or expectations, and want to advocate for yourself and others, including the LGBTQ+ communities.
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You want to be someone who listens with their eyes and heart.
What You’ll Learn in Raised in Silence
What it’s really like to grow up as a CODA
From childhood interpreting to family dynamics, Maria shares honest stories about navigating two cultures at once. You’ll laugh, you’ll be moved, and you’ll change your perspective.
How to connect with Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals—without needing to be fluent in ASL
Maria shares why presence and patience matter more than perfection, and how small gestures create lasting trust. Plus, she’ll give you tools, resources, and communication ideas.
Why inclusion isn’t about fixing people—it’s about changing the room
Whether it’s how we plan events, conduct job interviews, or show up at the doctor’s office, Maria shares how we can do better. You’ll learn why inclusion matters.
You don’t have to get it perfect. You just have to try.
If you’re learning your first ASL sign or figuring out how to support someone you love, Raised in Silence is a powerful reminder that the best connections are built on effort, empathy, and everyday moments. Get your copy today and start the conversation.
What Readers Are Saying
A New Way to Show Up
Maria’s story will change how you think about communication and what it means to show up for people on their terms.
— Robert Reffkin, Founder & CEO of Compass
More Than a Memoir
A deeply personal glimpse into what it means to grow up in Deaf culture. This book is a beautiful contribution to identity, connection, and inclusion.
— Cliff Moers, Former Director, Colorado Commission for the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind
A Quiet Revelation
Raised in Silence is a quiet revelation. It’s a tender, empathetic portrait of life within the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community…
— Mila, Advocate
Powerful in Purpose
Maria Gallucci is a rare force in this world. She is powerful in purpose, compassionate in presence, and deeply committed to making a meaningful impact through every word she writes in this amazing book!
— Skye Michiels, CEO With Heart Coaching
About the Author
Maria Gallucci
Maria Gallucci is a multi-award-winning real estate agent, a proud CODA (Child of Deaf Adults), and a lifelong advocate for inclusive communication.
Growing up as one of six hearing children raised by Deaf parents, Maria learned American Sign Language before English and acted as an unofficial interpreter—helping her parents buy a home at just 12 years old. Her childhood shaped her passion for helping people feel seen and respected, especially those who are often overlooked or misunderstood.
For more than 30 years, Maria has supported homebuyers from all walks of life, with a special focus on serving the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and LGBTQ+ communities. She’s the founder of Uptown Realty Group and Gallucci Homes, a top-producing agent at Compass Real Estate, and among the top 1.5% of agents nationwide. She also founded ASL Realty, a national platform connecting Deaf and signing clients with agents who communicate in American Sign Language.
Outside of real estate, Maria serves on the boards of the Rocky Mountain Deaf School, DOVE (Deaf Overcoming Violence through Empowerment), and CAD (Colorado Association of the Deaf). She’s passionate about language access, cultural inclusion, and creating spaces where everyone truly belongs.
Maria’s motto, “Just try,” is a reminder that meaningful connection can start with one small step. You don’t have to be perfect to communicate with someone who’s different from you. You don’t even have to speak their language. You just need to be willing to try.
Raised in Silence is Maria’s first book—a love letter to the community that brought her up, and a guide for anyone seeking to bridge communication gaps in their own life.
Not everyone communicates in the same way, yet everyone deserves in to be understood and feel valued.
