The Best Books for Beginners of American Sign Language (ASL)

When I first started learning American Sign Language (ASL), I relied on a variety of resources, including books and classroom practice. Classroom interaction with experienced language users undoubtedly played a crucial role in my learning journey. If you're a competent ASL user looking to assist a friend in learning ASL, this guide will help identify useful resources.

Understanding the Importance of Books in ASL Learning

While books cannot fully substitute the value of practical, hands-on interaction with live, native signers, they can provide a wealth of information and help solidify your understanding of ASL. It is essential to approach book recommendations with the understanding that while books are a valuable resource, they are not a substitute for live communication and cultural immersion.

Some Highly Recommended Books for ASL Beginners

One of the most widely-used and respected ASL textbooks is the Signing Naturally series, authored by Smith et al. This series is designed with a beginner in mind and provides a step-by-step approach to mastering ASL.

Learning American Sign Language by Humphries and Padden is another great option. It offers a comprehensive introduction to ASL and covers a wide range of topics, making it suitable for those new to the language.

For those seeking to understand ASL from a linguistic perspective, the Gallaudet Survival Guide to Signing and 1000 Signs of Life are excellent choices. Both are published by Gallaudet University Press, a respected institution in the field of deaf studies.

The Bill Vicars website is also a valuable resource, providing a lot of valuable information for beginners. The site, which is free, can serve as a great supplementary tool for ASL learners.

Recommendations for Book Selection

When searching for ASL learning materials, look for books that have author bios indicating they were written by linguists. Avoid older books like The Joy of Signing and A Basic Course in American Sign Language. These may not provide the most up-to-date information and can be outdated in terms of linguistic practices.

Real-World Interaction vs. Textbooks

While books are valuable, no book can match the real-time, interactive experience of learning from a fluent, native ASL user. As a Tactile ASL user, I have found that the best way to learn ASL is to interact with live signers. If you have access to fluent Deaf interpreters or other native ASL users, they can greatly enhance your learning experience.

For those seeking a more comprehensive and immersive ASL experience, consider enrolling in classes or seeking out a mentor who is a fluent ASL user. This approach will provide a holistic learning experience that goes beyond what a book can offer.

Conclusion

Whether you choose to use Signing Naturally, Learning American Sign Language, or other recommended resources, remember that a combination of books, practice, and interaction with native signers will provide the best learning experience. Happy learning!