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Reversed: A Memoir
"HE'S THE WORST CHILD I'VE SEEN IN 20 YEARS OF TEACHING."
Can a child’s fate be sealed by the age of seven?
Reversed is a memoir of profound determination that follows the highs and lows of overcoming impossible odds, turning one woman into a passionate teacher for children who have been left behind. Nothing is impossible when one digs deep,
and looks at students through a new lens.
Can a child’s fate be sealed by the age of seven?
Reversed is a memoir of profound determination that follows the highs and lows of overcoming impossible odds, turning one woman into a passionate teacher for children who have been left behind. Nothing is impossible when one digs deep,
and looks at students through a new lens.
280 pages, Paperback
First published March 15, 2018
49 people are currently reading
1018 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
September 24, 2017
I have known Lois for many years and have known of, and seen firsthand, her struggles with finding solutions for Nicholas to engage him in reading and learning.
However, until I read this wonderful book, I had no idea how creative and innovative Lois was in her relentless search for helping Nicholas master skills that most of us take for granted.
Her love, patience, persistence and resilience in the face of much opposition or even apathy from teachers, and her lateral thinking, have enabled Nicholas to open the doors to learning and great success.
Nicholas’ tenacity and dedication to mastering these reading, writing and learning skills has been extraordinary.
The last few chapters had me in tears - tears of rage at yet another teacher’s negative attitude and rigidity and tears of joy at Nicholas’ successes in both the academic and sporting areas. His arrival at Oxford is an achievement for him, the teachers who did believe in him and encourage him, but most of all for a mother who wouldn’t give up in the face of negativity and opposition.
I believe this book will motivate, challenge and encourage both educators and parents to look beyond the initial learning difficulties and find ways to engage and encourage students to develop a love for reading, writing and learning. I count it a great privilege to know Lois and Nicholas, to see the journey they have traveled and to read this book and I believe that it will be a catalyst for change in the lives of many.
However, until I read this wonderful book, I had no idea how creative and innovative Lois was in her relentless search for helping Nicholas master skills that most of us take for granted.
Her love, patience, persistence and resilience in the face of much opposition or even apathy from teachers, and her lateral thinking, have enabled Nicholas to open the doors to learning and great success.
Nicholas’ tenacity and dedication to mastering these reading, writing and learning skills has been extraordinary.
The last few chapters had me in tears - tears of rage at yet another teacher’s negative attitude and rigidity and tears of joy at Nicholas’ successes in both the academic and sporting areas. His arrival at Oxford is an achievement for him, the teachers who did believe in him and encourage him, but most of all for a mother who wouldn’t give up in the face of negativity and opposition.
I believe this book will motivate, challenge and encourage both educators and parents to look beyond the initial learning difficulties and find ways to engage and encourage students to develop a love for reading, writing and learning. I count it a great privilege to know Lois and Nicholas, to see the journey they have traveled and to read this book and I believe that it will be a catalyst for change in the lives of many.
September 11, 2017
The story of Reversed-A Memoir is a captivating story about a mother's love to help her struggling son who is having difficulty learning/reading in school.
The schools do not have the interest or expertise to help, so Mom steps in and takes on the difficult task of figuring out the puzzle of his issue and how to solve it. It takes countless hours, tireless energy and the love of a Mom who doesn't quit until she can tackle his disability and make her son the best he can be. This is a heartwarming story that is well written and captures your interest so you don't want to put the book down until you get to the end!
The schools do not have the interest or expertise to help, so Mom steps in and takes on the difficult task of figuring out the puzzle of his issue and how to solve it. It takes countless hours, tireless energy and the love of a Mom who doesn't quit until she can tackle his disability and make her son the best he can be. This is a heartwarming story that is well written and captures your interest so you don't want to put the book down until you get to the end!
January 30, 2018
I reluctantly started reading Lois Letchford's Reversed-A Memoir, at the insistence of a friend. But it turned out to be one of my best reads! An incredible narrative of hope, love, determination, patience and perseverance. The writing is simple yet powerful and you ache for Lois at every hurdle and cheer for Nicholas at each of his milestone.
A book for every parent, every teacher.
A book for every parent, every teacher.
March 5, 2018
Lois writes from the heart, conveying a very real sense of the determination and strength required throughout her journey.
I read this book with interest, as someone who was Home Educated and is now a teacher. I could relate to many of the author's observations about learning styles, techniques to engage students and the roadblocks encountered in the education system.
Lois writes in retrospect: a story which at the beginning, sounds as though it could never have culminated in such fantastic results for both her and Nicholas. Prior to reading, I was aware of how this particular story ends (or indeed continues on), however, this background knowledge never took away from the sense of surprise and delight I felt at every small step and achievement conveyed through her lovely story-telling.
An honest and ultimately uplifting account of what can be achieved with patience, persistence and the attitude of "never stop learning".
I read this book with interest, as someone who was Home Educated and is now a teacher. I could relate to many of the author's observations about learning styles, techniques to engage students and the roadblocks encountered in the education system.
Lois writes in retrospect: a story which at the beginning, sounds as though it could never have culminated in such fantastic results for both her and Nicholas. Prior to reading, I was aware of how this particular story ends (or indeed continues on), however, this background knowledge never took away from the sense of surprise and delight I felt at every small step and achievement conveyed through her lovely story-telling.
An honest and ultimately uplifting account of what can be achieved with patience, persistence and the attitude of "never stop learning".
December 5, 2017
“Reversed: A Memoir” is an empowering, inspiring and, at times, gut-wrenching emotional roller coaster ride. The author’s young son has a debilitating learning disability. Yet, through her unwavering maternal dedication and the boy’s extraordinary determination, he eventually reaches a pinnacle of academic success. Along the way we experience with them the frustrations and anxieties of many struggles as well as many small and large victories. I found every story and every vignette conveyed with compelling, raw and authentic emotion. Parents and teachers who are helping young people with learning disabilities will find this book encouraging and instructive. For all, it is a window into neurobiological disorders that require serious attention by our educational systems.
January 22, 2020
Wow! Just wow!
Here is mom who herself has had reading difficulties.
Here is a son who has significant reading difficulties.
Here is a mum whose belief in her son is unshakeable.
Here is an account of persistence and progress in the face of, at times, overwhelming odds.
Nicholas, at 6 labelled unteachable, is now, as an adult, a highly accomplished academic.
Lois is now a highly regarded and highly successful teacher helping many students overcome similar reading difficulties to those she and her Nicholas have.
I am going to recommend this book to the mother of a seven year old friend who is struggling with similar difficulties.
I commend it to everyone as a riveting and inspiring read.
Many, many thanks, Lois Letchford, for writing and sharing this.
Here is mom who herself has had reading difficulties.
Here is a son who has significant reading difficulties.
Here is a mum whose belief in her son is unshakeable.
Here is an account of persistence and progress in the face of, at times, overwhelming odds.
Nicholas, at 6 labelled unteachable, is now, as an adult, a highly accomplished academic.
Lois is now a highly regarded and highly successful teacher helping many students overcome similar reading difficulties to those she and her Nicholas have.
I am going to recommend this book to the mother of a seven year old friend who is struggling with similar difficulties.
I commend it to everyone as a riveting and inspiring read.
Many, many thanks, Lois Letchford, for writing and sharing this.
September 14, 2017
Nicholas could not read, the schools that should have taught him would not teach him. His mum saw promise and used Nicholas' recitation of a story about an "Enormous Turnip" and a game she made up loosely referred to as "should, could, would and elephant pee" to unlock the mystery. Lois Letchford says, "I am a risk taker, adventurous and love the unknown, but do not consider myself smart." Still, with courage and good humor, Ms. Letchford takes us on a creative adventure into the unknown and shows us how she taught Nicholas, whose difficulties were profound, to read.
Reading this book brought both smiles and tears. It is truly a wonderful story
Reading this book brought both smiles and tears. It is truly a wonderful story
April 3, 2018
"Reversed: A Memoir" is an uplifting, real-life tale of a child labelled as one of the worst seen in 20 years who ultimately graduates with a doctorate from Oxford University. How did that happen? Read this book and go on this child's, and his mother's, journeys through various education systems. You'll be challenged by questions about traditional teaching methods, measures of success and failure and what shapes how we view ourselves. This is a great read which will touch your heart and stir memories of your childhood.
September 11, 2017
Reversed is an interesting recollection of a mother and son never giving up on one another and beating the odds together. Lois's personality & passion come out on every page and draw you in. If you or someone you love have ever struggled with reading, you'll relate deeply to this story and be inspired to find someone like Lois to help them. I highly recommend it!
November 15, 2022
After reading Reversed : A Memoir by Lois Letchford I believe her husband Chris said it best when he was quoted in the Acknowledgement section. He said “It’s important to read, as reading unlocks the imagination and opens windows to the world.” That is why I have ALWAYS read and the main reason that if I have read a book and it gets turns into a movie, I refuse to watch the movie…..there is no way that what I have imagined can even compare to the movie and I do not want to ruin what I have in my head.
Unfortunately I have never given any thought to how I learned to read. Obviously I didn’t struggle with learning, if I did I would remember the hardship. I was one of the lucky ones….but after reading Reversed : A Memoir and reading about the struggle that Nicholas endured when he was young and just starting his education, it breaks my heart. And he was not alone….
Lucky for Nicholas, who is the middle child of Lois and Chris’, he has a strong and determined mother and she did whatever she could to see that he received the help he needed in the school system and beyond. I cannot imagine being told that your child is “the worst child I’ve seen in 20 years of teaching” by a teacher !!! Teachers are suppose to be there for the children, lifting them up, helping them to become smarter, better human beings….not by making them feel useless, stupid and unworthy. I have to give credit to Lois for not going postal on that teacher but instead taking that statment and using it as fuel for their journey.
Readers, whether you have a child suffering with learning, had a child who suffered or just love to read memoirs, you will thoroughly enjoy reading about Nicholas and his journey. You will experience several emotions while reading but when you get to the end and close the book for the final time, you will have a smile on your face and a tear in your eye….a happy tear.
Unfortunately I have never given any thought to how I learned to read. Obviously I didn’t struggle with learning, if I did I would remember the hardship. I was one of the lucky ones….but after reading Reversed : A Memoir and reading about the struggle that Nicholas endured when he was young and just starting his education, it breaks my heart. And he was not alone….
Lucky for Nicholas, who is the middle child of Lois and Chris’, he has a strong and determined mother and she did whatever she could to see that he received the help he needed in the school system and beyond. I cannot imagine being told that your child is “the worst child I’ve seen in 20 years of teaching” by a teacher !!! Teachers are suppose to be there for the children, lifting them up, helping them to become smarter, better human beings….not by making them feel useless, stupid and unworthy. I have to give credit to Lois for not going postal on that teacher but instead taking that statment and using it as fuel for their journey.
Readers, whether you have a child suffering with learning, had a child who suffered or just love to read memoirs, you will thoroughly enjoy reading about Nicholas and his journey. You will experience several emotions while reading but when you get to the end and close the book for the final time, you will have a smile on your face and a tear in your eye….a happy tear.
September 14, 2023
I recently read this magnificent book 'Reversed' which is an inspiring memoir that beautifully captures the unwavering dedication of a mother, Lois Letchford, in the face of her son's early struggles with learning.
Their story takes us on a heartwarming journey, showcasing the power of hope, determination, and the unbreakable bond between a parent and child.
Lois's relentless efforts to help her son overcome challenges, despite having no formal reading education herself, are truly commendable.
This book not only sheds light on the flaws in the educational system but also underscores the importance of personalized and adaptable learning approaches.
I would love to share a quote on this aspect that I found in this book -
"The test of a good teacher is not how many questions he can ask his pupils that they will answer readily, but how many questions he inspires them to ask him which he finds hard to answer. —ALICE WELLINGTON ROLLINS"
It's a testament to the power of advocacy and champions for those who have been marginalized.
In this captivating memoir, Lois Letchford reminds us that with unwavering determination and a belief in one's potential, the impossible can be achieved.
Some good strategies are discussed in this book that can be really helpful for many who are in need of help in this matter.
This book is highly recommended for all —specially for parents, educators, and anyone seeking inspiration from the resilience of the human spirit.
Happy Reading.
Their story takes us on a heartwarming journey, showcasing the power of hope, determination, and the unbreakable bond between a parent and child.
Lois's relentless efforts to help her son overcome challenges, despite having no formal reading education herself, are truly commendable.
This book not only sheds light on the flaws in the educational system but also underscores the importance of personalized and adaptable learning approaches.
I would love to share a quote on this aspect that I found in this book -
"The test of a good teacher is not how many questions he can ask his pupils that they will answer readily, but how many questions he inspires them to ask him which he finds hard to answer. —ALICE WELLINGTON ROLLINS"
It's a testament to the power of advocacy and champions for those who have been marginalized.
In this captivating memoir, Lois Letchford reminds us that with unwavering determination and a belief in one's potential, the impossible can be achieved.
Some good strategies are discussed in this book that can be really helpful for many who are in need of help in this matter.
This book is highly recommended for all —specially for parents, educators, and anyone seeking inspiration from the resilience of the human spirit.
Happy Reading.
August 30, 2018
Every teacher, anyone who works with children, every parent who struggles with a child who struggles to succeed, needs to read this book. In fact, parents who don't struggle should also read it, as it will give them an idea of what their friends and loved ones may endure with their children. I was a parent who endured, and I wish my friends and family had this book to read, to help them understand.
March 28, 2018
This book is brilliantly written - I could stop reading it and finished within just a couple days after it arrived.
A fascinating true story about a mother that didn't give up on teaching her son despite the hopeless of the teachers.
A book I would definitely recommend, especially to any mother or anyone lightly related to education. It's important to raise awareness of these type of difficulties and change the education system to pay attention and promptly help children with learning disabilities instead of labelling them with 'low IQ', and let them on their own and to believe they are just not capable.
I truly would love to see this story transformed into a movie!
A fascinating true story about a mother that didn't give up on teaching her son despite the hopeless of the teachers.
A book I would definitely recommend, especially to any mother or anyone lightly related to education. It's important to raise awareness of these type of difficulties and change the education system to pay attention and promptly help children with learning disabilities instead of labelling them with 'low IQ', and let them on their own and to believe they are just not capable.
I truly would love to see this story transformed into a movie!
March 29, 2018
I love buying non fiction reads for our school library and this is one that I will definitely be purchasing. It is important that the students read a range of books on a diverse array of subjects and Lois Letchford's book was incredibly readable. The senior students will definitely enjoy reading it and I think that they'll find it extremely interesting as well as giving them a better insight into the subject matter. I have ordered a copy and look forward to recommending it to our seniors who enjoy non fiction as much as a good novel. An excellent read!
March 14, 2018
I didn't know Lois Letchford until I came across her book - Reversed: A Memoir - via a mutual contact on social media. When Lois offered to send me a pre-publication version of her book, I jumped at the opportunity. Something told me that this was a book I really needed to read. I was right.
In fact, I think it's a book that lots of people need to read - for all sorts of reasons.
For me, reading this book was like taking a walk down memory lane. At each step in Nicholas' literacy journey, I was reminded of the countless 'Nicholases' I've worked with and the conversations I've had with distraught parents or concerned and frustrated teachers. I'm sure many others who read this book will also relate to it in a very personal way whether it's because they themselves have had similar experiences, have recently found themselves navigating the rocky road of learning difficulties with their child or have been tasked with the responsibility of teaching a 'Nicholas' in a classroom, tutoring or clinical setting.
Whatever the reason for choosing to read this book, the thing that will resonate with you will be the warmth of a mother's love, her instinctive will to help her child and her tenacity in protecting him from the perils of an education system that still has a long way to go in knowing how best to support students with special learning needs. In all of that, Lois' story is one of discovery, commitment, validation and hope and the message is very clearly, 'Never give up.'
Carolyn Hastings
Speech Language Pathologist
Melbourne, Australia
In fact, I think it's a book that lots of people need to read - for all sorts of reasons.
For me, reading this book was like taking a walk down memory lane. At each step in Nicholas' literacy journey, I was reminded of the countless 'Nicholases' I've worked with and the conversations I've had with distraught parents or concerned and frustrated teachers. I'm sure many others who read this book will also relate to it in a very personal way whether it's because they themselves have had similar experiences, have recently found themselves navigating the rocky road of learning difficulties with their child or have been tasked with the responsibility of teaching a 'Nicholas' in a classroom, tutoring or clinical setting.
Whatever the reason for choosing to read this book, the thing that will resonate with you will be the warmth of a mother's love, her instinctive will to help her child and her tenacity in protecting him from the perils of an education system that still has a long way to go in knowing how best to support students with special learning needs. In all of that, Lois' story is one of discovery, commitment, validation and hope and the message is very clearly, 'Never give up.'
Carolyn Hastings
Speech Language Pathologist
Melbourne, Australia
March 26, 2018
Gripping, exultant!
Do not pass this book by. What I first thought would only be Nicholas' story turned into a true memoir. It was a privilege to read about how both Lois and Nicholas were transformed. This book read more like a novel whose pages I could not stop turning. I hope we hear more from Lois Letchford.
Do not pass this book by. What I first thought would only be Nicholas' story turned into a true memoir. It was a privilege to read about how both Lois and Nicholas were transformed. This book read more like a novel whose pages I could not stop turning. I hope we hear more from Lois Letchford.
July 14, 2018
Lois Letchford has written an incredible story of her determination to support her son. As you read her story, you feel as if you are sharing a conversation with her. Her writing captures the emotion of each scenario along with a vision of the interactions. Just read the short Prologue and you will be wanting to read more!
This story describes events that no parent should experience when engaging with their child’s educators! As ‘stunned’ as Lois was in meeting with her son’s teacher on his sixth day of school, I was also ‘stunned’ that this interaction even took place! Educators should read this story as a reminder of how words and actions impact students and their families. In some cases it can elevate and in others it can devastate. Lois demonstrated courage, passion, resilience and true grit in her determination to help her son.
As you read, you should pay attention to the quotes at the start of each chapter. My favorite is found at the beginning of Chapter Seven – “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops” ~ Henry Adams. Educators are very familiar with this quote but it really describes this journey. The influence of this story will affect parents, students, educators, health professionals, and the list could go on! That first teacher story will stay with me as I’m sure it stays with Lois and her son! Lois can teach us all a lesson from sharing her incredible journey with us. A beautiful read!
This story describes events that no parent should experience when engaging with their child’s educators! As ‘stunned’ as Lois was in meeting with her son’s teacher on his sixth day of school, I was also ‘stunned’ that this interaction even took place! Educators should read this story as a reminder of how words and actions impact students and their families. In some cases it can elevate and in others it can devastate. Lois demonstrated courage, passion, resilience and true grit in her determination to help her son.
As you read, you should pay attention to the quotes at the start of each chapter. My favorite is found at the beginning of Chapter Seven – “A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops” ~ Henry Adams. Educators are very familiar with this quote but it really describes this journey. The influence of this story will affect parents, students, educators, health professionals, and the list could go on! That first teacher story will stay with me as I’m sure it stays with Lois and her son! Lois can teach us all a lesson from sharing her incredible journey with us. A beautiful read!
March 5, 2023
Essential reading for SPED teachers.
March 17, 2018
The story of a mother who refuses to give up when confronted by her son's learning difficulties. Set across three continents and three decades, it is an engaging read which will entertain and give you some insight into the challenges faced by those for whom standard teaching methods have failed.
March 13, 2018
This memoir, at times, moved me to tears and at other times made my heart sing with joy. I cheered on and admired the determination and perseverance of a mother desperately searching for the keys that would open up and further engage her son to explore and learn about the world around him. When others gave up, this mother (the author) courageously carried on and believed in her son’s ability to learn. Determination, perseverance, and a mother’s undying love and support, led to remarkable discoveries.
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March 13, 2018Reversed hit home when I was able to read an early copy. As a mother of a special needs child AND a teacher, this book was so close to home, I could not put it down. The unfolding of the story and how Lois deals with triumphs and tragedies is heartbreaking and heartwarming. There are parts of the story that give ideas how to problem solve and follow through with determination and love. It is an incredible journey you don't want to miss.
April 5, 2020
An exceptional book that should be read by every current teacher -- no matter WHAT the subject and required reading for every senior in college in any type of educational field. Why? Sometimes knowing what not to do, what NEVER EVER EVER EVER to do is more important. If the teacher/student is not shocked by the behavior of some teachers in this true story, then they do not belong in the classroom.
Lois Letchford who had a learning problem (I refuse to call it a disability) when she was a child knew somehow she HAD to help her son, Nicholas, who was labeled as being unable to be taught. Any cruel statement said about a child to their face or in their hearing is devastating. Imagine a teacher, your teacher, declaring to your child that he has no hope in ever learning...anything. Now imagine that same teacher stating the same thing to you and in an unkind, in fact, mean voice. I admire Lois that she didn't deck the teachers who did.
Eventually Nicholas' problem will have a real name but by that time Lois has developed a technique to help her son learn to read. The gains are often by inches but you will rejoice in every one of them as you read her book.
Lois overcame so much herself in helping Nicholas and eventually has achieved success in the special way she helps people with a disability to read.
This book flows as only a good writer can do. There is no stumbling over segments. No misunderstandings. I admire Lois Litchfield enormously. And Nicholas -- he graduates from Oxford with a doctorate in Mathematics.
THIS IS A MUST READ. It's an easy read yet difficult because you feel the hurt that Lois and her family goes through as well the joy for the successes both great and small. This book makes you feel .
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I rec'd a copy of this book from the author free in exchange for an honest review.
Lois Letchford who had a learning problem (I refuse to call it a disability) when she was a child knew somehow she HAD to help her son, Nicholas, who was labeled as being unable to be taught. Any cruel statement said about a child to their face or in their hearing is devastating. Imagine a teacher, your teacher, declaring to your child that he has no hope in ever learning...anything. Now imagine that same teacher stating the same thing to you and in an unkind, in fact, mean voice. I admire Lois that she didn't deck the teachers who did.
Eventually Nicholas' problem will have a real name but by that time Lois has developed a technique to help her son learn to read. The gains are often by inches but you will rejoice in every one of them as you read her book.
Lois overcame so much herself in helping Nicholas and eventually has achieved success in the special way she helps people with a disability to read.
This book flows as only a good writer can do. There is no stumbling over segments. No misunderstandings. I admire Lois Litchfield enormously. And Nicholas -- he graduates from Oxford with a doctorate in Mathematics.
THIS IS A MUST READ. It's an easy read yet difficult because you feel the hurt that Lois and her family goes through as well the joy for the successes both great and small. This book makes you feel .
-------------
I rec'd a copy of this book from the author free in exchange for an honest review.
November 19, 2017
'Reversed: A Memoir' is a must read for anyone even tangentially involved in education, teaching, researching learning difficulties, or perhaps the most important of all, parents/caregivers with a child who finds school challenging. 'Reversed : A Memoir' tells the story of Lois and her son Nicholas. It begins with a devastating pronouncement - Nicholas is slow at school, struggling to read, and has a dim future, at best. Official testing confirms that Nicholas has little hope of becoming better.
This is the inspiring story of how Lois copes with this judgment, and works with Nicholas to not just teach him to read, but also to instill confidence in him that he can learn. It is a story that brings to life a remarkable journey of learning - one that straddles the sometimes distant worlds of research and real life, and which vividly illustrates how a child who is deemed to have no future at all, goes on to achieve a PhD from one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Nicholas' learning, in turn, inspires Lois to become a reading specialist herself, who goes on to work with other children left behind by the system. Teachers and parents will also find useful teaching strategies in this book that can be used with children who find reading challenging.
We often struggle to understand how people who have difficulties we do not, visualise the world and negotiate their realities - but 'Reversed: A Memoir' accomplishes this task in telling an extraordinarily empathetic, detailed, and useful story. Do pick up a copy when it comes out in March 2018!
This is the inspiring story of how Lois copes with this judgment, and works with Nicholas to not just teach him to read, but also to instill confidence in him that he can learn. It is a story that brings to life a remarkable journey of learning - one that straddles the sometimes distant worlds of research and real life, and which vividly illustrates how a child who is deemed to have no future at all, goes on to achieve a PhD from one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Nicholas' learning, in turn, inspires Lois to become a reading specialist herself, who goes on to work with other children left behind by the system. Teachers and parents will also find useful teaching strategies in this book that can be used with children who find reading challenging.
We often struggle to understand how people who have difficulties we do not, visualise the world and negotiate their realities - but 'Reversed: A Memoir' accomplishes this task in telling an extraordinarily empathetic, detailed, and useful story. Do pick up a copy when it comes out in March 2018!
February 9, 2018
Being a mother and a former teacher, I was intrigued by the description of Reversed - A Memoir. How would someone write a memoir about teaching a child to read? I was captivated from the first page. This was not a dry educational treatise with step by step instructions but rather a heartfelt memoir of a mother and son's journey to help him learn to read. The miracle is that neither of them ever lost their love of learning or reading. Both of them were highly motivated and tenacious and never gave up. I especially liked how the theme of a journey kept reoccurring - there is Nicholas' journey to learn to read, Lois' journey from a concerned parent to a gifted educator and the family's journeys as the father's job takes them to three countries and how all those moves impacted these separate, but intertwined journeys. It was not an easy or linear journey, but at the end of the book the student has gone from an unhappy elementary school boy whose parents were told he was the worst student a teacher had seen in her 20 years to a triumphant recent graduate of a prestigious doctoral program. The author begins the book as a frustrated worried mother to a successful teacher of her son and other problem readers after succeeding and learning along with her son. The book held my attention, was easy and enjoyable to read. This is a great book for any educator to read and any parent.
March 6, 2018
" I've finished reading your heartwarming book & found it inspirational, comical, frustrating, shocking & most of all, amazing! It should be required reading for all who teach children, especially those with "learning disabilities". Once I started reading this book, I found it difficult to put down.
A must read!
A must read!
September 11, 2017
This memoir is the poignant and heartbreaking true story of one family's quest to find their son the instruction needed to be successful in school and life. As I read this story, my heart broke for Lois and young Nicholas as they struggled to find their way in seeking out the right kind of instruction for Nicholas to learn to read. The story offers rays of hope throughout, amidst small moments of success, (Nicholas reciting Tolstoy’s The Great Big Enormous Turnip, Nicholas learning to swim) to laugh out loud antics (the contents of Lois’ suitcase scattered on the luggage carousel at Heathrow airport upon the families’ arrival). This memoir offers promise to parents and educators alike who are determined to find ways to reach those students who are most challenging to teach. It shows what one family's and one child’s determination can do. There are no boundaries when the strength of mind and strength of character come to play. I highly recommend this book to parents and educators who believe there are no limits when it comes to making a difference in the life of a child.
Christl Mueller
Literacy Specialist, Enlarged City School District of Troy, New York
Doctoral Student, University at Albany, New York
Christl Mueller
Literacy Specialist, Enlarged City School District of Troy, New York
Doctoral Student, University at Albany, New York
December 27, 2023
It's a real shame that some kids get left behind in the educational system. This memoir takes you along for the ride of a success story. But it was only a success because of the hard work of both mom/teacher and kid/student. The author (mom/teacher) individualizes a learning program for her son, and then takes what she learns through those efforts and applies it to other children. I loved reading about her methods and how different kids responded in different ways, then watching her pivot to again individualize the program for their specific needs. Good book and I'm glad I read it!
h/t to Nappanee Public Library's annual "Expand Your Horizons" reading challenge for pointing me in this direction! Only two more books to go!
h/t to Nappanee Public Library's annual "Expand Your Horizons" reading challenge for pointing me in this direction! Only two more books to go!
February 4, 2018
I know that Lois is a wonderful person and I know her well. But I had know idea how talented she was until I read ‘Reversed: A Memoir’! A very good book written by Lois, the hardships she has undergone to bring up Nicholas from the age of 7 to 11 years and beyond, the stress faced both by the mother and the son is really challenging. A great/good applause from the mother to the son for every milestone he crosses. The hardwork and the dedication made by Lois really brings tears into our eyes and impressed with Nicholas,when he calls his Nana sharing his happiness for his small but significant learning achievements. A very good book to be read by each parent and teacher.
November 29, 2017
Having been intimately involved in this story from the beginning it is moving to approach it through Lois' eyes; her struggles, her disasters, and her triumphs with educating Nicholas to read, develop, and prosper. It is not only the story of a child's continued growth through a 'disability', but that of a journey of self-discovery of a mother dedicated to improving not only her own child's future but all those children she touches. This is a truly moving story, full of passion, emotion, and power of achievement.
February 8, 2018
Reversed. A memoir is undoubtedly a wonder read. Lois Letchford has passionately and eloquently brought out her struggle in improvising her son 's reading skills better than his peers. Nickolas seems to have the same determination and perseverance his mother has and I think that's what made him succeed. Lois has wonderfully scripted her narration bring out effectively her fears and her pains in her struggle. Never wanted to put the book down till I finished. You are not only a wonderful mother but a good author too. I thank kalpana for sending me a copy of this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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