Reading Between the Signs: Intercultural Communication for Sign Language Interpreters - Softcover

Mindess, Anna

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1877864730 ISBN 13: 9781877864735

Publisher: UNKNO, 1999

Synopsis

Designed to help sign language interpreters and anyone interested in Deaf culture, this book investigates the cultural differences present between the Deaf and hearing worlds. Mindness, a professional sign language interpreter, begins with a general discussion of intercultural communication, with specific examinations of American culture and Deaf culture, focusing especially on their dissimilarities. Later chapters provide techniques for cultural adjustments in interpreting situations, and explore the relationship of the interpreter to the Deaf community. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

About this title

About the Author

Anna Mindess has worked as a sign language interpreter in business, legal, educational, medical, video relay and performing arts settings for more than thirty years. A noted author, educator, consultant and trainer, she has presented lectures and workshops on cultural issues across the U.S. and internationally. She is co-creator, with Thomas K. Holcomb, of two DVDs: See What I Mean and A Sign of Respect.

From Library Journal

Mindess's first book helps the professional sign language interpreter provide more effective service through an understanding of deaf culture and cross-cultural communication. Mindess, herself a veteran interpreter, introduces the main concepts of intercultural communication in the first half of her work, drawing on examples from anthropology, linguistics, and related fields. She highlights differences between hearing culture and deaf culture in America that can compromise clarity in translation situations. Finally, Mindess explores the responsibilities of translators and their primary role as mediators, recognizing that American Sign Language (ASL) translators raised outside deaf culture must learn its nuances to maintain professional quality. In comparison, Melanie Metzger's more research-oriented Sign Language Interpreting: Deconstructing the Myth of Neutrality (Gallaudet Univ., 1999) reveals how interpreters influence a translation interaction. Although less academic in nature, Mindess's book is a better resource for the interpreter and is recommended for large public libraries and appropriate educational and professional settings.AAndy Wickens, Univ. of Illinois-Chicago Lib. of the Health Sciences
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: UNKNO
• Publication date: 1999
• ISBN 10: 1877864730
• ISBN 13: 9781877864735
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 259