From Publishers Weekly
Starred Review. In a passionate and well-articulated guide that puts to rest the idea that dyslexic people are unintelligent, disabilities advocate Foss (himself dyslexic and the creator of Intel Reader, a text-to-speech device) describes dyslexia as a characteristic and a disability that should be accommodated in the same way as blindness or mobility issues. Foss reframes the use of film, audiobooks, and material read aloud as ear-reading, in contrast to the eye-reading that is the educational standard. Though, as Foss notes, eye-reading is a useful skill that can be improved by teaching methods like Orton-Gillingham, by mid-elementary school, dyslexic students should be accommodated with auditory materials. He hopes that parents can learn to explain their child's needs in a way that will win them essential support, and that they can help their child build self-esteem. Foss describes the current state of assistive technology and highlights the availability of material from resources like Learning Ally; he also discusses how to navigate good accommodations in the school environment and determine if a school is inappropriate for your child's welfare. This extremely practical and motivational book will be welcomed by parents of dyslexic children. Agent: Carol Mann, Carol Mann Agency. (Aug.)
Review
“A passionate and well-articulated guide that puts to rest the idea that dyslexic people are unintelligent . . . This extremely practical and motivational book will be welcomed by parents of dyslexic children.”
—Publishers Weekly (starred review)“I study dyslexia in the lab and am a parent of a wonderful daughter who fits this profile. Ben Foss’s book should be considered essential to any collection on the subject. It was extremely useful, especially for a mom. Thank you!”
—Maria Luisa Gorno Tempini, M.D., Ph.D., professor of neurology, UCSF, Memory and Aging Center “Foss has used his journey to provide readers with a unique and insightful view of the strengths and challenges that come with being dyslexic. The talent and creativity with which Ben has written this book make it stand out as a guide to navigating the remarkable world of dyslexia.”
—Claudia Koockek, head of school, Charles Armstrong School, Belmont, CA “As someone with a learning profile that made school tough, and as a parent, I know kids need the right support. Ben Foss knows how to get access to education because he’s been through it. I was thrilled to read this book. It offers a wise collection of insights that are both practical and touching. Buy it today if you want a get a plan for your child.”
—James Gandolfini, actor, The Sopranos “As an educator with forty-two years of experience, with half of of that time supporting dyslexic learners, I cannot think of a more valuable and insightful resource for parents and teachers to empower dyslexic kids. As a dyslexic adult myself, and the head of an independent school for dyslexics, I know Ben Foss’s wisdom is dead-on and I recommend this book to any parent.”
—Muir Meredith, head of school, Westmark School, Encino, California “This is the book we have been waiting for, synthesizing the head and the heart issues in dyslexia. Our organization supports millions of parents looking for information on dyslexia and other specific learning disabilities; Foss’s step-by-step guide will become a go-to resource for them.”
—James H. Wendorf, executive director, National Center for Learning Disabilities See all Editorial Reviews