Rebecah - A Mother's Story by Jill Taylor Publisher: Athena Press ISBN: 1 84401 256 5

Twenty-six years ago in Malaysia, the author gave birth to a small miracle. She was called Nadya - later Rebecah - and was profoundly deaf.

This is a magical account of a life with a difference. Rebecah's mother knew soon after the birth that her child was special. As she says, 'Seeing and knowing what has been achieved here touches my heart and gives me joy. No wonder I have been guided to write her story.'

Rebecah's discovery of ideas and words, her ventures into lip-reading and conversation, school days in West Yorkshire and Berkshire, art school and a university degree - these steps are faithfully and painstakingly recorded. With her mother's help Rebecah was able to venture out into the world and investigate the more spiritual dimensions of human existence. Indeed, there are moments of wonder, humour and mysticism here in the author's own life that are as intense as Rebecah's triumphant struggle to slip the surly bonds of silence... and touch the face of God.

Forward by Jill Taylor

Rebecah is deaf and her story is written through my eyes and ears, with the intention to touch the hearts of many. Events within her life are highlighted through poignant memories, underscored with a meaningful emotional charge and purpose in their telling. They are encapsulated under such headings as 'Funny Times' or 'Magic and Wonder' rather than being strictly chronologically told.

Delightfully, and in story form, my story emerges from a natural progression of those deeper insights. This exotic adventure gives us an encapsulating yet penetrating synopsis of that inner purpose; that drive to know truth. The story culminates, ultimately, in connecting Rebecah's and my own life's purpose with a oneness of heart.

Finally with both candour and humour, Rebecah's own account is written through her eyes and ears.