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Hey there! I create relatable, humorous stories with Deaf characters and rich, vibrant worlds. Whether it’s Duke the Deaf Dog’s adventures or Cassandra Sato’s mystery puzzles, you’re in for a fun ride—and you might learn a thing or two along the way!
avatar of Kelly. She has shoulder length brown hair and light skin. She's wearing a sweatshirt and waving hello.
Kelly Brakenhoff
Author


picture books
Ages 3-9

duke the deaf dog chapter books logo
Ages 6-10

mystery books
Adults (rated PG for ages 12+)

HeyGuessWhat!


National Library Week author spotlight in deaf service unlimited blog
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CBC Favorites Award Winners I Belong Here and IEPs R4U and Me


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Featured Books


I belong here, it's my story, take your shot, and IEPs R4U and Me book covers

 🐾  Meet Duke the Deaf Dog in His Newest Adventures!  🐾 

Explore this fun 4-book chapter book series where Duke introduces young readers to Deaf culture, American Sign Language (ASL), and the joy of self-discovery. Perfect for kids, parents, and educators, each story combines life lessons with engaging ASL resources. 

Head to our Bookstore to grab the complete bundle and follow Duke on his journey!


i belong here teacher guide and workbook cover
NEW RELEASE!

Featured Audiobooks

Need a new audiobook binge? The Cassandra Sato Mysteries are now available and perfect for fans of campus drama, cozy twists, and Netflix-style storytelling. Narrated by Rosemary Cline, these books bring Cassandra’s chaos (and charm) straight to your earbuds.


Square audiobook cover for Death by Dissertation read by Rosemary Cline


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dead week cover audiobook


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dead of winter break audiobook cover


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death 101: extra credit audiobook cover


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Homecoming Homicide audiobook cover


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Featured Video

 🐾  I Belong Here: Learn 10 New Signs with Duke the Deaf Dog! 🐾  

Ready to add some new signs to your ASL toolkit? In this fun video, Amy, our resident ASL instructor, is here to help you and your little ones learn ten new signs. Perfect for kids (and adults!) who want to explore the world of ASL.

Join Duke for a pawsome learning adventure—click play and get ready to sign along!

https://youtu.be/nYaDMsNrAbc?si=j_7R4pLflpqY1m_f

Welcome!

Curious about how you ended up “in Brakenville”? Well, let me roll out the welcome mat and give you the grand tour. I promise, it’s more fun than an orientation pamphlet (and there’s a dog involved).


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Why I Write

Ever wondered what inspires someone to write both mysteries and children’s books? Spoiler: It’s not just caffeine (though it helps). Here’s what keeps me typing away amidst the controlled chaos of life.


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Why I Sign

American Sign Language might seem like a cool second language, but really it’s my secret weapon. Find out why I sign and how it sneaks its way into everything I do (yes, even in my mysteries!).


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Automatically save 20% when you buy 20+ books!

Need an invoice for your school or institution?

Use our Contact Form with the subject “School Orders” and we’ll get back to you quickly with details.

We love working with schools and will help make your ordering process quick and easy!

 

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