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The Adventures of Everyday Geniuses
If You're So Smart, How Come You Can't Spell Mississippi?: (A Story About Dyslexia)
Katie always thought her dad was smart; he is one of the busiest attorneys in town! People are always asking him for advice! She has been a bit confused since asking him for help with her weekly spelling list. How can her very smart dad struggle with one of her spelling words? This definitely didn't make sense. the word Mississippi has changes everything...
Book Series
"It is hard to overstate how much better children are served if they believe, rightly, that their efforts to improve academically actually make a difference. Research by Dr. Carol Dweck and colleagues has shown, in impressive detail, that children's beliefs about the nature of intelligence--as being either malleable or fixed--can greatly impact both their attitude towards learning and their academic achievement. It is far better to believe in a malleable rather than a fixed notion of intelligence. Thus it is a delight to see books like the present one put much needed, and scientifically credible, tools in the hands of educators, parents, and children."
Dr. Jeremy Gray, Yale University
Professor of Psychology
"The Mainstream Connections book series teaches that challenges and differences are part of the spice of life, not something to hide or fear. Each child in the series faces a challenge that makes him or her feel different and maybe not as good as other kids. Young readers will learn the value of facing challenges directly, and to respect everyone's unique challenges. Success comes from practice and improvement, especially on the things that are hardest to do."
Dr. Brian Nosek, University of Virginia
Professor of Psychology
“The Mainstream Connections Children's Book Series conveys a message that could have been lifted straight from a psychology research there is more than one way to define ‘being smart’. As these stories illustrate, for every person, large and small, there are skills that are relatively difficult to master and others that seem to come more naturally. These books emphasize the important empirical conclusion that just as regular exercise makes the body stronger, so, too, does practice and the effort to improve academically--with all the struggle, fatigue, and initial failure that it entails--allow people to capitalize on the malleable nature of human intelligence.”
Dr. Samuel R. Sommers, Tufts University
Professor of Psychology
“I applaud Barbara Esham for finding a way to teach young children how to be more mindful. In so doing, she sets the stage for their greater well-being as adults.”
Dr. Ellen Langer, Harvard University
Professor of Psychology
“This is a wonderful book series. Each story shows children that success is about effort and determination, that problems need not derail them, and that adults can understand their worries and struggles. My research demonstrates that these lessons are essential for children.”
Dr. Carol S. Dweck, Stanford University
Professor of Psychology
"If You're So Smart How Come You Can't Spell Mississippi? is a fantastic way of bringing this information to the many smart children who find reading and spelling especially difficult--and especially to those who are beginning to doubt their own potential."
Drs. Brock (M.D., M.A.) and Fernette (M.D.)
Learning Experts
As consultants, the Eides are international and national professional advisors for organizations such as SENG (Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted).
Book Series
"It is hard to overstate how much better children are served if they believe, rightly, that their efforts to improve academically actually make a difference. Research by Dr. Carol Dweck and colleagues has shown, in impressive detail, that children's beliefs about the nature of intelligence--as being either malleable or fixed--can greatly impact both their attitude towards learning and their academic achievement. It is far better to believe in a malleable rather than a fixed notion of intelligence. Thus it is a delight to see books like the present one put much needed, and scientifically credible, tools in the hands of educators, parents, and children."
Dr. Jeremy Gray, Yale University
Professor of Psychology
"The Mainstream Connections book series teaches that challenges and differences are part of the spice of life, not something to hide or fear. Each child in the series faces a challenge that makes him or her feel different and maybe not as good as other kids. Young readers will learn the value of facing challenges directly, and to respect everyone's unique challenges. Success comes from practice and improvement, especially on the things that are hardest to do."
Dr. Brian Nosek, University of Virginia
Professor of Psychology
“The Mainstream Connections Children's Book Series conveys a message that could have been lifted straight from a psychology research there is more than one way to define ‘being smart’. As these stories illustrate, for every person, large and small, there are skills that are relatively difficult to master and others that seem to come more naturally. These books emphasize the important empirical conclusion that just as regular exercise makes the body stronger, so, too, does practice and the effort to improve academically--with all the struggle, fatigue, and initial failure that it entails--allow people to capitalize on the malleable nature of human intelligence.”
Dr. Samuel R. Sommers, Tufts University
Professor of Psychology
“I applaud Barbara Esham for finding a way to teach young children how to be more mindful. In so doing, she sets the stage for their greater well-being as adults.”
Dr. Ellen Langer, Harvard University
Professor of Psychology
“This is a wonderful book series. Each story shows children that success is about effort and determination, that problems need not derail them, and that adults can understand their worries and struggles. My research demonstrates that these lessons are essential for children.”
Dr. Carol S. Dweck, Stanford University
Professor of Psychology
"If You're So Smart How Come You Can't Spell Mississippi? is a fantastic way of bringing this information to the many smart children who find reading and spelling especially difficult--and especially to those who are beginning to doubt their own potential."
Drs. Brock (M.D., M.A.) and Fernette (M.D.)
Learning Experts
As consultants, the Eides are international and national professional advisors for organizations such as SENG (Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted).
29 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2008
34 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
May 11, 2021
This book did a great job at explaining dyslexia. So many people all around the world have dyslexia and can still be smart and do great things. Katie thought her dad was the smartest person in the world until he couldn't help her with spelling homework. Then he was able to explain dyslexia and all the things it effects. Then Katie related her dad to mark in her class. I would have liked to see Katie helping Mark and being nice to him. This book mentioned it but i would have liked so much more to actually see it. Otherwise, a great book.
September 7, 2011
The Adventures of Everyday Geniuses series by Barbara Esham
If You're So Smart, How Come You Can't Spell Mississippi?
From the back of the book: Katie always thought her dad was smart; he is one of the busiest attorneys in town! People are always asking him for advice! She has been a bit confused since asking him for help with her weekly spelling list. How can her very smart dad struggle with one of her spelling words? This definitely didn't make sense. the word Mississippi has changes everything...
This is one of four books in a series about children who learn differently. Each of the books explains different learning challenges (dyslexia, difficulty with timed tests, handwriting and ADD) in kid friendly lingo without talking down to the children.
What I liked about the book: It is a great book for explaining dyslexia to students who have been diagnosed with dyslexia or who may have classmates with it. I loved it when Katie's dad pointed out that " . . . dyslexia does not mean a person isn't smart. In fact some of the greatest scientists, doctors, and inventors struggled with symptoms of dyslexia." As an educator and librarian, my heart just swelled when Katie asked her mom to take her to the library so she could learn more. Young readers will be able to see themselves in this story, either as Mark Twingle, who can't spell anything or as Katie who had the wrong idea about Mark. At the end of the story, the author has included additional resources for parents and teachers.
What I didn't like about the book: I liked it all. I highly recommend this book for anyone who has a child who learns differently. It's a must addition to any school/classroom library.
Recommended for ages 6 and up.
AR Reading Level: Not listed on AR.
Mrs. Archer's Rating: 5 of 5!
If You're So Smart, How Come You Can't Spell Mississippi?
From the back of the book: Katie always thought her dad was smart; he is one of the busiest attorneys in town! People are always asking him for advice! She has been a bit confused since asking him for help with her weekly spelling list. How can her very smart dad struggle with one of her spelling words? This definitely didn't make sense. the word Mississippi has changes everything...
This is one of four books in a series about children who learn differently. Each of the books explains different learning challenges (dyslexia, difficulty with timed tests, handwriting and ADD) in kid friendly lingo without talking down to the children.
What I liked about the book: It is a great book for explaining dyslexia to students who have been diagnosed with dyslexia or who may have classmates with it. I loved it when Katie's dad pointed out that " . . . dyslexia does not mean a person isn't smart. In fact some of the greatest scientists, doctors, and inventors struggled with symptoms of dyslexia." As an educator and librarian, my heart just swelled when Katie asked her mom to take her to the library so she could learn more. Young readers will be able to see themselves in this story, either as Mark Twingle, who can't spell anything or as Katie who had the wrong idea about Mark. At the end of the story, the author has included additional resources for parents and teachers.
What I didn't like about the book: I liked it all. I highly recommend this book for anyone who has a child who learns differently. It's a must addition to any school/classroom library.
Recommended for ages 6 and up.
AR Reading Level: Not listed on AR.
Mrs. Archer's Rating: 5 of 5!
Read
November 2, 2016Katie is keen observer and a curious third grader. So when her dad explains why he finds spelling difficult, Katie wants to investigate. She learns that her very intelligent dad, a lawyer, has dyslexia probably like a couple of Katie's classmates. Expressive line and wash illustrations enhance the engaging, illuminating story. Part of The Adventures of Everyday Geniuses series.
Subject: Dyslexic children -- Juvenile fiction.
Self-esteem -- Juvenile fiction.
Spelling ability -- Juvenile fiction.
Anxiety -- Juvenile fiction.
Learning disabled children -- Juvenile fiction.
Cognitive styles in children
Subject: Dyslexic children -- Juvenile fiction.
Self-esteem -- Juvenile fiction.
Spelling ability -- Juvenile fiction.
Anxiety -- Juvenile fiction.
Learning disabled children -- Juvenile fiction.
Cognitive styles in children
September 6, 2014
I would recommend this story if you are interested in understanding, or helping others understand, that dyslexia is having trouble with reading and spelling. It does not mean that a person lacks intelligence.
Children who have dyslexia will be reassured and classmates may gain compassion.
This is one of the books in a series on the different ways people learn.
Children who have dyslexia will be reassured and classmates may gain compassion.
This is one of the books in a series on the different ways people learn.
July 9, 2015
A must read . . .
This is a great book for children and their care givers. Regardless if you have a learning difference or not. If you do this will help you feel empowered, if you or child knows someone who h as difficulty it gives you an moment to walk in there shoes. : )
This is a great book for children and their care givers. Regardless if you have a learning difference or not. If you do this will help you feel empowered, if you or child knows someone who h as difficulty it gives you an moment to walk in there shoes. : )
August 4, 2022
Excellent children's book that is part of the Adventure of the Everyday Geniuses series. Katie is a curious and observant third grader, who enjoys learning about new things. She considers her dad to be one of the smartest people she knows. When she finds out that he can't spell Mississippi, she is surprised, which leads to her father's discussion with her regarding his dyslexia and his problems in school with both spelling and reading.
Well written with the cutest illustrations, especially of her little sister who wants to change her name to Eduardo after watching a cooking show. :) Highly recommend it!
Well written with the cutest illustrations, especially of her little sister who wants to change her name to Eduardo after watching a cooking show. :) Highly recommend it!
December 5, 2017
Katie has always been under the impression that her dad is one of the smartest men in town. But, when he has trouble with one of her spelling words, she starts to question everything. This is a great story that leads kids to realize that everyone, even adults, have unique abilities and acceptance of those abilities is very important.
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June 24, 2019There are lots of layers - and a bit of humor - to this exceptional story about a little girl who learns that being smart doesn't mean you know everything. So much to love about this book.
January 20, 2018
Must read
The simplest of issues in life are the most difficult to understand... Why? Well this short book addresses that. A must read for all parents. And a visit to the website is also a must. Will be doing that myself soon.
The simplest of issues in life are the most difficult to understand... Why? Well this short book addresses that. A must read for all parents. And a visit to the website is also a must. Will be doing that myself soon.
May 7, 2021
I am not too sure why I picked up this book. Maybe I got it for free somewhere. Anyway, this is a book about dyslexia. It's a short little book. Pretty well written. Would be a good book for kids to understand the condition.
November 17, 2017
This is a cute book that could easily be used to introduce social lessons to students while encouraging them to succeed regardless of struggles they may face.
November 12, 2018
I good book to describe dyslexia to children.
January 9, 2019
It was a cute little book. I thought it was pretty inspirational, especially as a teacher :)
April 5, 2019
Good book
Not what I expected, but a good book. I did not read the description before hand. Very interesting book about dyslexia.
Not what I expected, but a good book. I did not read the description before hand. Very interesting book about dyslexia.
May 21, 2020
Cute little read.
March 5, 2021
OpenDyslexic for the win!
October 14, 2021
Kid's father is successful attorney with dyslexia. Very smart twist.
January 29, 2013
My Husband and 10yr old daughter are both dyslexic. This book is a delightful way of explaining dyslexia to not just children, but adults who don't understand it also! I have read many, many books on this subject and this is one of the best written.
The only thing is that a dyslexic child will not be able to read this book for themselves which is frustrating to them. In showing how smart the little girl is and how smart the adults with dyslexia are and the great things they grow up to learn and do. There are some huge words used that a child with dyslexia would grow very frustrated with and would not try to read this book on their own. Which would in turn leave them feeling not as smart as the other dyslexics.
I wish this had been explained again at the end instead of just the beginning when her Dad was talking to her.
The only thing is that a dyslexic child will not be able to read this book for themselves which is frustrating to them. In showing how smart the little girl is and how smart the adults with dyslexia are and the great things they grow up to learn and do. There are some huge words used that a child with dyslexia would grow very frustrated with and would not try to read this book on their own. Which would in turn leave them feeling not as smart as the other dyslexics.
I wish this had been explained again at the end instead of just the beginning when her Dad was talking to her.
July 7, 2012
Katie thinks that her dad is the smartest person around. One night she asks him for help with her spelling, but he says for that you'll need your mom. Katie asks her dad if your so smart, how come you can't spell Mississippi? He explains to her about being dyslexic. He tells her that with dyslexia it's hard for him to read and spell. He explains to her that those things are hard for him and he has to work at them but he does it! Katie want's to know more about dyslexia so she goes to the library and finds a book on it. She learns that many smart people have dealt with being dyslexic. This book helps children understand what dyslexia really is. I would recommend this book to teachers, parents, and anyone who works with children.
July 18, 2012
Wonderful way to cover the subject of dyslexia for children. The story is about a young girl that observes people. After asking her dad to help spell a word, she learns her dad has dyslexia. Her investigative practice of learning lead her to some suggestions for her teacher and classmate.
This was an rewarding all around read. The illustrations were vivid and worked well in moving the story forward. The suggested website at the end is extraordinary. Check it out for ways to make connections by visiting mainstreamconnections.org. Must add to every kindle...certainly recommend.
This was an rewarding all around read. The illustrations were vivid and worked well in moving the story forward. The suggested website at the end is extraordinary. Check it out for ways to make connections by visiting mainstreamconnections.org. Must add to every kindle...certainly recommend.
July 19, 2012
This is a children's book that explains how children can be smart, but still have trouble reading, writing, or spelling. It introduces the word dyslexia, and infers that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. There is a review from Edward Hollowell. There is also a web site for more of this type of product. www.mainstreamconnections.org
March 25, 2015
It was interesting. There is another book similar to this. They deal with issues that little kids might have or run into. I think this one dealt with dislexia, and the little girl has a friend in school who has that learning challenge. She learns her dad has it, and decides to help her friend. Cute and it explains some things in a way that kids can grasp.
October 1, 2013
The author's message comes through the voice of a child. I had never thought about people who were struggling with this difficulty until now. It made me think of the other handicaps that children, and even adults, go through just to blend in. Definitely a must-read for people of all ages.
December 19, 2014
A little girl discovers the challenges her dad has had with dyslexia and applies them to a little boy in her third grade class. A text thick with long sentences and long words but good for specific situations.
March 21, 2012
Great book for children!
July 18, 2012
See! What a good read. It's a fun read, and inspirational for kids who might have dyslexia or want to know more about how it can affect their peers!
August 23, 2012
書中的小女孩喜歡對周遭的事物進行觀察，一天她發現她這一生中認識最最聰明的人居然在難以想像的地方有「障礙」，於是她決定開始好好研究"dyslexia"到底是怎麼一回事～～
July 19, 2012
Great book to read to children about dyslexia. It helps children grasp that it is a learning difference and that many brilliant and successful people have it; it can be overcome.
October 11, 2012
Great book for kids with dsylexia!
October 14, 2012
A great kid's read about dyslexia.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews