Fly on the Wall by Bill Pugin (audio book)

"A moving tribute to the Deaf community and a master class in compassion..."

Synopsis -

For over five decades, Bill Pugin has stood at the crossroads of two languages and cultures—bridging communication between the Deaf and hearing worlds. In this heartfelt and often humorous memoir, Pugin takes readers on a journey from his small-town Southern childhood to the global stages and studios where he built a lifetime of stories as a sign language interpreter, performer, and advocate.

From his first exposure to American Sign Language through his Deaf sister, Mary Anne, to interpreting alongside Oscar-winner Marlee Matlin, Fly on the Wall celebrates the beauty of connection, the art of interpretation, and the human spirit’s unshakable drive to be understood. Pugin’s reflections reveal not just the life of one man, but the evolution of a profession—and a culture—rooted in empathy, expression, and resilience.

A moving tribute to the Deaf community and a master class in compassion, this memoir is a must-read for anyone interested in language, accessibility, and the extraordinary power of understanding.

Review - 

Bill Pugin is a great story teller, so no surprise that he is an amazing interpreter. Giving a platform to the voice of others is a very special passion.  I like to do the same as a writer. It is amazing that he discovered his calling at a fairly young age.  His sister Mary Anne was born deaf, and he was intrigued by her use of sign language and felt drawn into that world. When he began working in the deaf school she attended he found his community and his future. 

Bill Pugin on Our City Tonight

Pugin is also a performer, dancer, and actor. He has worked on cruise ships, met celebrities, and worked as an interpreter everywhere from movie sets, to medical facilities, to conferences, and more. I think what I loved most is his willingness to take a leap into the unknown whether he had the skills or even sometimes a solid knowledge of what was expected.  He is a people person, and always willing to reach out and open doors to new friendships. 

Where the author is such a great story teller, I think this book is best listened to as an audio book, but I do have one comment.  While Pugin's personality and excitement, as well as great timing stand out, the recording itself isn't the best.  It's clear, but I don't think it was recorded in a fully padded recording booth.  That said, I still think it's best listened to. 

Buy the book: Amazon US ~ Amazon CA

Meet the Author -

Bill Pugin believes people can master the skills of powerful communication by being open to life’s experiences and developing natural tools of social observation. Signing started Pugin on his road to discovery. His sister, Mary Anne, is deaf and his great affection toward her inspired him to learn sign language. He attended Gallaudet University, a university for the Deaf in Washington DC, where he completed his formal training in Sign Language Interpreting in 1979. Along the way, Bill earned certifications with the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, National Association of the Deaf, California Association of the Deaf, and numerous other awards and recognitions.

Bill has traveled the world providing exceptional sign language interpreting services for four U.S. Presidents, His Holiness The Dalai Lama, World Leaders and Entertainment Industry Icons. He founded The Sign Language Company in order to offer the industry a higher level of talent and service. Bill is ‘hands on’ with the day-to-day operations at The Sign Language Company, ensuring his company maintains the high standards and industry reputation he established over 35 years ago. He is also a published author having penned his memoir in recently released Fly on the Wall.

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