My Name Is Brain Brian

by Jeanne Betancourt

Struggling with problems that the kids in his class see as clowning around, such as mixing things up and spelling letters backwards, Brian learns he has dyslexia and suffers peer teasing when his friends do not understand. Reprint.

Genres: Young Adult, Middle Grade, Realistic Fiction, School, Fiction, Childrens, Classics

144 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1992

About the author

When I was growing up I never thought of being an author. I was a terrible speller and didn't want to write any more than I had to. I wanted to be a tap dancer when I grew up. After a few years of teaching junior high and high school, I wrote my first novel. It was a surprise to discover that I liked making up stories and writing them down. I liked it so much that eventually I stopped teaching and became a fulltime writer.

Besides novels for children and young adults, I've also told stories by writing scripts for television and the movies.

I live on the top floor of a sixteen-story building near the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. From my apartment I have a view of Manhattan that includes the Empire State Building and the Plaza Hotel. In my free time I draw, paint, and read. I still love to dance.

Some people think that a writer's life is lonely. But when I'm writing a story I don't feel lonely because I am actively involved with lots of interesting people – the characters in my books. I love knowing that some day readers will get to know these characters, too. If you are one of my readers I hope you have as much enjoyment in reading my stories as I have writing them.

Reviews

[Beatriz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great children's novel! Explains the difficulties and genius of dyslexia.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book takes place in 1993 (published in 1993). I love that the author used the term 'learns differently' for the main character, Brian. Brian has dyslexia and needs to figured how he can learn differently than most students in his class. He learns to use assistive technology, a tape recorder and a laptop. For the times I think this is great and right on what was available. In many ways I'd love to see this story updated but I also like how simple it is with technology.
A great story to share with students who learn differently and who don't. I can't wait to book talk this book to my students!

[Katie Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brian is a boy with dyslexia but doesn't know it. His teacher realizes his condition and gets Brian the help he needs. Brian is embarrassed of the extra attention he needs but realizes that he needs the attention becuase his brain works differently than everyone elses. This book would be used in my classroom to discuss self-esteem and always having hope.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great lesson about dyslexia for kids.

[Daniel Burnett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book I ever read, I still remember it with fondness.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice story about how it only takes one person to give a child what he needs in order to succeed. I only wish there had been some help/punishment for the trouble maker.

[Deborah Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

this is a classic book about Dyslexia. Brain/Brian reverses letter, can't read out loud, can't take notes from the blackboard, gets left and right mixed up. But he can build, he understands how things work and can problem solve. Betancourt is Dyslexic herself, and this novel reflects that awareness. Brian's home life isn't perfect, either. His father is always calling him lazy and is angry and argumentative. Brian notices that both his father and grandfather have the same problems with words as he does, and learns that it runs in families. Luckily, Brian gets a new Grade Six teacher who tests him and gets him reading help. He hides all of this from his "friends" who are more into playing pranks and joking. Two of the boys start bullying Brian, and he stands up to them. Brian gets stuck with the smartest girl in the class to do research on the Canada Goose, which fascinate Brian. He observes them and questions how they can migrate and knows exactly where they have their nests, and records their sounds while recording his observations. His project goes well, and he realizes that he is smart, just in a different way, and that he will have to work hard to live with his Dyslexia. The book ends on a positive note, and we see a different side of Brian in his kind interactions with his two-year-old brother. I would definitely share this book with middle-grade students.

[Hibbe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a sweet children’s book on what it means to be dyslectic. I’ve finished it in only a few hours, having enjoyed the little adventures of Brian, on his journey into becoming what he wants “a better student” and making his parents happy. Obviously, this is easier said than done, since he blames himself for all the mistakes he does at school, not knowing anything about his learning disability. It is only when his teacher Mr. Bigham discovers that Brian had dyslexia but nevertheless is a very smart boy that needs special attention. When Mr. Bigham introduces him to a tutor who helps him, that things start to get a lot better. He realizes that his strengths may not be in reading and writing, but that he can think in a much broader way than other people and has beautiful ideas for any project he has to work on. Using a few tools, like a tape-recorder (as to the time-period the book was published) and a computer laptop, he manages to end his school-year successfully in a way he never did before.

[Huỳnh Phạm Minh Khuê · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember how much I used to hate reading until recently when it has become one of the things that makes me happy. And this book just adds more to it. I have had students who seem to have a learning disability, which turns out to be dyslexia. People often mistake having dyslexia for being stupid or unable to absorb knowledge, but that is entirely false. Dyslexic students have their own way of thinking and can know anything even adults struggle to find the answer. They just need the right method and someone to guide them along the way. They will definitely improve over time, therefore enhance their confidence growing up. I have more understanding about dyslexia thanks to the book. It's also a reminder that no one should ever have to feel ashamed for being the smartest and most hardworking person in the room.
I only have a pdf copy of the book, which means I have to read it on my phone, but what's written in it has got me all the way. Worth every minute of reading.

[Sarah Tutt · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was a quick/easy read. It was clear it was written in the 90s based on some outdated language and themes. However, with that said. The fact the teacher said learning difference and not disability was nice. The way he was encouraged was good. However, the bullying was pure 90s boys will by boys attitude. The teacher announcing the tape recorder was unacceptable. Brian leaving his friends and moving forward was great. It’s good to show a character grow and not feel like they have to stay with toxic people. The dad and even the mom were not great parents. Mom was supportive of his dyslexia and getting help, but they both just saddled him with his baby brother like that was his job. I have some mixed feelings about if I would read it to a class or not. It is definitely a product of the 90s with all the good and bad from those times.

[Jemeecia Trice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this book I don’t really know too much about dyslexia or any books on it. This book stuck out to me because I seen that it took place kinda back in the day. I didn’t know people back then knew about learning disorders. This book is about a boy name Brain who has dyslexia but of course he doesn’t know it, his teacher is actually the one who finds out that he has it. He realizes that he needs the extra attention to help him learn because his brain works a little different than the rest of his friends, but at first he was a little embarrassed of it. Teachers and/or parents can use this book to help children with dyslexia and self-esteem.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read this with my third grade grandson. Great story focusing primarily on a 6th grade boy with dyslexia. He recognizes he is intelligent and capable as he begins to learn different approaches to reading. Growth is seen in his character as he realizes his grandfather and father also have dyslexia and understands how it has negatively effected their lives; as he learns to have more confidence in himself; which in turn helps him make better life choices.

[Rebecca van den Ham · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good book for boys. Deals with struggling with a learning disability as well as choosing friends. Friends may turn out to be former enemies, and you may have to separate yourself from supposed friends who turn out not to be at all.
A little dated, but read it as historic fiction! (Marvel at the antique technology, etc.)

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book all kids with dyslexia can relate to. Author describes so many of the fears, embarrassments, name calling, bullying these kids can go through. Also how up until recently, educators didn’t really understand the problem.

[Samuel Otilien · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book helps me relate to my life because I know someone in the same situation as Brian, it can be tough, but they shouldn’t hide anything, because eventually it will be to late.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dyslexic author gets the story of a dyslexic student right

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for a student struggling with dyslexia or other learning disabilities. Students perspective of school, friends and family difficulties.

[Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very much a book from the early 90s. Wholesome, sensitive, and relatable. Feels like: early mornings and those Canada Geese...

[Lisa Huninghake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent portrayal of issues for a student with dyslexia. I was also pleased that it is a black teacher who recognizes the problem and does something about it. Well written!

[Jill]

Great book for fourth grade dyslexia

[Ranette · Rating 3 out of 5]

A 6th grade boy and his friends like to tease the other students when Brian's teacher realizes he is dyslectic. As he gets help his desire to tease others lessons and he becomes a better learner.

[Estelle Vlieger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable story about overcoming struggles and finding your inner strength

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a find! This is such an incredible book about dyslexia, friendship, families, bullying and making choices. Wow!

[Sky Hopkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine that you were struggling in school every day and trying really hard, but everyone around you thought you were lazy. My Name is Brian not Brain is a book about a kid with dyslexia who struggles with school. His parents think he is indolent and that Brian does not work hard, but really he does. Brian’s mom has an idea of why brian just gives up right away. On the other hand, Brian’s dad just thinks Brian doesn’t work hard enough. Brian thinks he is dumb no matter how hard he tries. Then his 6th-grade teacher changes his life.

One reason why I enjoyed this book is because I could relate to having a teacher that changed my life. Like Brian, I also have dyslexia and a teacher that believed in me. It can be challenging, and it has been challenging to keep up with other students when reading a book. When Brian goes to school, he has a new teacher named Mr.Bigham. On the first day, Mr.Bigham asks the class if they could write their name on the board and he notices that Brian spells his name as Brain. Then Mr. Bigham wants Brian to undergo some tests to see if Brian has a learning difference. When Mr.Bigham gets the tests back, he tells Brian that he has dyslexia. After Brian gets the help he needs, he finally starts to have some success in school. The author does a nice job describing the juggle of emotions that people often have when they find out they have a learning difference, like relief and mixed feelings about this.


Overall, I liked this book, but I think that there were some moments that were unsettling. For example, when the parents find out that Brian has dyslexia they are mad about having a child with a learning difference. I thought this was interesting because we find out that the dad has dyslexia too. Before Brian’s dad finds out that Brian has dyslexia, his dad does not support him even when he is struggling. This is an upsetting moment for me because I think that the parents should be supportive, especially since the dad has experienced this type of struggle. Since I have also experienced a journey of having some difficulty reading, I have supportive parents and I think it pushes me to work hard. On the other hand, not having supportive parents you might not want to try in school because you might not have the motivation to work hard. However, Brian’s teacher helped him become confident about school. You can still be successful in school but you might just need one person who believes in you.


If there is one thing that I could take away from reading this book it would be that even if you have a learning difference, you can still be successful. If you like books that keep you thinking and that you don’t know what will happen, you would like this book. I also recommend this book to tweens and teenagers because if you don’t have a learning difference you could understand about having one, and if you do, you could relate to this book very well. When I found out that I had a learning difference, I saw things from a different perspective.

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Betancourt, Jeanne. My Name Is Brain Brian. New York: Scholastic, 1993. Print.
Summary: Brian is a 6th grade boy who has problems with school work. His father accuses him of being lazy, despite the fact that Brian is trying as hard as he can. His best friends are John, Dan and Richie. They hang out in the shed of the Colgate Mansion (which really exists), an abandoned home in Sharon, Connecticut. The boys invent 1Cthe Joker 19s Club 1D. They get points for playing jokes on different people, but not on each other. At the beginning of each month they put money into a jar then depending on each Joker Club member 19s points, they can take out money from the jar. Brian is identified as having dyslexia and begins tutoring. He finds out how he learns best and begins to be more successful in school. Due to his tutoring sessions and his determination to succeed in school, he can 19t spend as much time with his Joker Club members. John begins to hang out with a group of older boys and turns on Brian. It is refreshing to see Brian make the 1Cright 1D decisions and to know that if you try hard, you have a chance to be successful. This book is written from personal experience as the author is dyslexic.
Ridiculously Simple Synopsis: Boy with dyslexia learns how to read and learn.
Curriculum Connection: Reading, Bullying, diversity, social issues, making choices, students may also read Thank You Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco
Reading Level: Intermediate
Awards:
Genre: Fiction
Characters:
Brian Toomey: The narrator of the story who is having a difficult time with school work.
Ray Toomey: Brian 19s father. He does not seem to understand that Brian is not lazy.
Hilary Toomey: Brian 19s older sister.
Tyson Toomey: Brian 19s baby brother who he has to care for when his mother begins to help him with his homework.
Grandpa Al: Brian 19s grandfather and Roy 19s father.
Ellen Toomey: Brian 19s mother who has a job and takes care of the family.
Dan: Brian 19s friend and member of the Joker 19s club.
John Fedray: Brian 19s not so loyal friend who becomes a bully. Leader and member of the Joker 19s Club.
Richie: Friend of Brian 19s at the beginning and 4th member of the Joker 19s Club. He is a follower of John and becomes a bully.
Mr. Bigham: Brian 19s teacher who realizes that he is smart boy, but may have learning issues.
Dr. Ruth Jenner: Tested Brian for dyslexia.
Mrs. Samuels: A retired teacher who is Brian 19s tutor.
Mrs. Freedman: School Principal at Sharon Center School.
Isabel: Brian 19s nemesis in class who becomes his friend and colleague.

[Mary Feeney · Rating 3 out of 5]

My Name is Brain Brian, is about a young boy entering 6th grade who is challenged with the difficulties of reading and writing. He can’t even write his name correctly (writes Brain for Brian) but is unsure of why he can’t. He compensates for his insecurities by the acting out in class, joking around, and being known as the “class clown” He thinks that his friends like him, however, when he finally receives help from a caring teacher his “so called friends” tease him him and call him a “teacher’s pet”. Brian is faced with the challenge of peer pressure and searching to find his true self.

This novel ties in the social justice of ability, disability and ableism as well as bullying. In this story Brian tries hard to distract others from knowing that he can’t read or write. He is aware that if others know the truth that he will be made fun of, teased and bullied. Instead, he acts out and tries to be the class clown. Brian finally meets a teacher who goes out of his way to help him realize that he has dyslexia. For years, teachers and even his parents, always thought that he was being lazy or just not trying hard enough. Brian is embarrassed that he needs help but he slowly begins to learn that he is not dumb, his brain just learns in a different way. In the end, the story offers hope that with effort and guidance students with dyslexia can learn to read and write.

I would read Knees-The mixed up world of a boy with Dyslexia by Vanita Oelschloger and Joe Rossi prior to reading My Name is Brain Brian. This book is written in rhyming couplets from the point of view of fourth grader Lewis who does not understand why his “words come out backwards”. Lewis is assisted by a caring teacher who explains his dyslexia and helps him understand that everyone has unique talents. He learns about famous people like Einstein, Ford and Disney who overcome their difficulties with reading and writing to achieve success. This story would provide some background knowledge to prepare students for My Name is Brain Brian.

This text is appropriate for students ages 8-12 and in grades 2-6. It allows for the discussion bully awareness and prevention and acknowledging that getting help from others doesn’t mean that you are not smart. In Brian’s case, his brain simply learned in different ways.

[Sara · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh.

It's a story about a 12yo boy with dyslexia, lousy friends, and even lousier parents. I'm probably being picky, but a few things left a bad taste in my mouth-- for one, kids with shotguns, making fun of others as sport, and again, lousy parents.

It's nice to see a book about a main character coming to terms with his dyslexia. However, the resolution at the end left me wanting. I'm sure the author was going for the the "orphan complex" by giving the mc such uninvolved, uncaring parents. By the end, the boy is making progress with his dyslexia and has better friends, but his parents are still zombies. And the kids with guns still have guns-- let's promise not to tell on them so they won't beat us up (or was it, burn us with cigarettes?).

I think a YA author has certain responsibilities. At the very least she should resolve issues of real danger (unsupervised kids shooting off shotguns) and not teach kids to keep such dangerous secrets. At the very most, the author should try to feed a child's soul and leave them with a feeling of hope. It wasn't totally awful, but I think the ending fell short on both accounts.

[Gordon Pennington · Rating 3 out of 5]

Brian, Dan, Richie, and John are the class clowns in school. They call themselves ‘The Jokers Club’. Sometimes Brian makes people laugh without even meaning to, such as when he writes his name as Brain instead of Brian. Mr. Bigham, Brian’s sixth grade teacher, diagnoses Brian with dyslexia. The other members of the Jokers Club begin to tease Brian about his problem, which forces Brian to truly assess what makes a real friend. He ends up becoming friends with a former enemy (Isabel) and disbands the Jokers Club permanently. Through the counseling of Mr. Bigham and Mrs. Samuels (the dyslexia specialist), Brian realizes that having dyslexia is ok and that he can work around it to achieve his goals. This book is a good one to read to show students that it is okay to be different. Students can learn to let nothing hold them back through reading this book. It is a great read in which I think my students will enjoy.

[Mehdi · Rating 1 out of 5]

My name is Brain Brian
By Jeanne Betancourt

Brian, is a very funny! He makes his classmates laugh when he write his name as Brain! But Brian knows that he is not really a brain! He is very stupid, and some of his classmates call him teachers pet! One day he discovered why he was so stupid, and it changed all of it.

I would not like to be friends with any character! Some are mean, most are stupid! I did not really like the book.

I did not like the book because Brian is very stupid and he doesn't really trusty in him. People that do that are not really good to hang around with! Plus I did not like the title. If my classmates call me teachers dog, there might be a big fight! I know I'll get hurt but anyways!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I would recommend this book to my sister, she is the kind of girl that like those stupid stories.
I did not read any books like that yet! I hope not anymore. For me it was a very easy book to read.

[Nickie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't like the way kids and family are treating each other in the book but I do like that we are reading about dyslexia and the challenge of a boy who is diagnosed. One of our children also has dyslexia so it's nice to read about someone else with this challenge who is also bright in other ways that have to be discovered.

We finished this little book with some disappointment on my part. I really did not like how the parents behaved as adults. They sound unhappy and selfish.

I did like the changes that came over Brian once he had someone who believed in him and found one of his friends really wanted to be a better pupil in school. Hard work does pay off when you have dyslexia.

Our daughter Mattia sees this happening for herself through the program she is attending called Take Flight through the Scottish Rite hospital.