Picture a storyteller who turned silence into spellbinding stories—meet Henry Kisor! A deaf journalist and author, Kisor transformed his unique perspective into a vibrant literary career. From his evocative memoir to gripping mystery novels set in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, his work captivates with heart and intrigue, proving that barriers can fuel brilliance.
Born in 1940, Kisor lost his hearing at age three due to meningitis, yet his journey as a Pulitzer Prize finalist and Chicago Sun-Times book editor showcases resilience and talent. Let’s dive into the life and legacy of this remarkable writer!
The Making of Henry Kisor
Henry Kisor’s early life was shaped by determination. After losing his hearing, his parents embraced the ‘oralist’ method, teaching him to lip-read and speak, defying the era’s tendency to institutionalize deaf children. Raised in Evanston, Illinois, Kisor was mainstreamed in public schools—a bold move for the 1940s. His academic path led to a B.A. from Trinity College and an M.S.J. from Northwestern University, laying the foundation for a stellar journalism career. Starting at the Evening Journal in Wilmington, Delaware, he honed his craft before joining the Chicago Daily News and later the Chicago Sun-Times, where he served as book editor for over three decades.
Henry Kisor’s Unforgettable Stories
Kisor’s literary portfolio is as diverse as it is compelling. His 1990 memoir, What’s That Pig Outdoors?: A Memoir of Deafness, offers a candid, witty look at navigating a hearing world, earning the Chicago Foundation for Literature Award. In Zephyr: Tracking a Dream Across America (1994), Kisor captures the romance of the California Zephyr train, blending travelogue with vivid storytelling. His aviation memoir, Flight of the Gin Fizz: Midlife at 4,500 Feet (1997), chronicles his daring cross-country flight in a Cessna, echoing a 1911 journey by deaf pilot Cal Rodgers—a testament to defying limitations.
Kisor’s fiction shines in his Steve Martinez mystery series, set in the rugged Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Titles like Season’s Revenge (2003) and The Riddle of Billy Gibbs (2016) feature a Lakota deputy sheriff unraveling small-town secrets, infused with Kisor’s love for the region’s stark beauty. His writing blends sharp prose, cultural nuance, and suspense, earning praise from critics like Marilyn Stasio of the New York Times. Kisor also co-authored Traveling with Service Animals (2019), showcasing his practical yet heartfelt storytelling.
Why Henry Kisor Matters
Henry Kisor’s impact transcends his books. As a deaf journalist thriving in a verbal profession, he shattered stereotypes, inspiring countless readers and writers with disabilities. His honest reflections on deafness, coupled with his adventurous spirit—whether flying planes or crafting mysteries—resonate with those facing their own challenges. His induction into the Chicago Journalism Hall of Fame in 2001 and Pulitzer Prize finalist nod in 1981 underscore his influence. Through blogs like The Reluctant Blogger and The Whodunit Photographer, Kisor continues to engage, offering glimpses into his creative mind.
- Born: 1940, Evanston, Illinois
- Key Works: What’s That Pig Outdoors?, Zephyr, Flight of the Gin Fizz, Steve Martinez series
- Awards: Pulitzer Prize finalist (1981), Chicago Journalism Hall of Fame (2001)
Snag What’s That Pig Outdoors? or dive into the suspense of Season’s Revenge to experience Henry Kisor’s captivating blend of heart and mystery!