The Secret Life of the Dyslexic Child: How She thinks. How He Feels. How They Can Succeed.

by Robert Frank, Kathryn E. Livingston

A paperback edition of the widely praised book that gives parents for the first time ever a true understanding of what their child with a learning disorder is thinking and feeling. Winner of the 2002 Margot Marek Annual Book Award for the most outstanding book written for parents or children on the subject of dyslexia or related learning disabilities. (International Dyslexia Association- New York branch) Dr. Robert Frank, whose own dyslexia didn't stop him from becoming an educator, psychologist, and award-winning author, takes the reader inside the emotions and frustrations of the dyslexic child to help parents coach their child to:
- Improve academic achievement
- Get support from friends and family
- Establish solid work and study habits
- Focus on abilities and strengths
- Set and meet personal goals Above all, Dr. Frank tells parents the simple steps they can take to help their child build self-esteem and confidence and create a life of success.

Genres: Nonfiction, Self Help

260 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

About the author

Dr. Robert Frank is an educational psychologist.

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.

Reviews

[Frozencacti · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really helped me see the world through my dyslexic child's eyes. Written by a dyslexic, I can finally understand the daily struggles my son faces. I now feel better equiped to help him learn.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book it was less "scientific" than the previous books I have read on the topic. It had a more personal, real life feel which I guess it the point considering a person with dyslexia wrote the book. Glad I bought it so I can use it as a reference.

[Brenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good book to learn what a dyslexic child goes through, but the downside is the author talks about IEPs in the public school for a good portion (over half) of the book. As a homeschooling mom of a dyslexic, it didn't provide as much useful information as I had hoped for. That being said, if you are public schooling your children, this is a wonderful resource for information on how to approach the school and become your child's advocate for special services to help with dyslexia.

[Moop · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book in defining what dyslexia is and how to spot it and recommend testing for a child. Much of the book is directed for parents of kids with dyslexia. Truly liked the definition and found it interesting and helpful as a classroom teacher.

[MaryMargaret Norton · Rating 3 out of 5]

Should have checked the copyright date. This book is so old😉. Also the book is very repetitive. As a teacher in today’s classroom there is a significant lack of parental support. Especially with children with disabilities. Everything seems to fall on the teacher. Extra work is not usually done at home.

[Lee Farris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eye opening and heart breaking all in one book! Some great suggestions to help lessen frustration for a child with Dyslexia as well as scenarios to try if you want to know what life feels like for your child.

[Ramakrishna T V · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not yet started. how can I?

[Deanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this book was very helpful in showing how dyslexia affects more than just reading. It is full of true stories and situations. Reading it would help a parent understand the challenges and different "faces" of dyslexia.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Books discussing Dyslexia are always emotionally difficult for me to get through. This book stands out in that it is written by a Dyslexic college prof. who chose to include a view into how he continues to deal with his disability as an adult.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

So far I am very impressed with this book. I am only about 40 pages into it, but it has hit the nail on the head! I am anxious to finish it and see what kind of information it provides to me as the parent of a child diagnosed with dyslexia.

[Nicole Burkhardt · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book gave a insight into what life as a dyslexic is like. I liked that it emphasized that dyslexia not only affects reading but all areas of life. It makes it easier for me to understand how hard my son has to work to just get through the day.

[Devorah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful descriptions and explanations of the experiences of a dyslexic individual.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

1.12.09 -- The library didn't have it. Will need to have them do a search to find, $2 charge.
Ended up with a purchase from Borders. $16.91. Began reading on 1.25.09.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

If nothing else, this book helps parents remember that there are a lot of people in the same boat. Simple and helpful for those just learning about dyslexia.

[Laura Hodgins · Rating 3 out of 5]

brief explanation of what dyslexia is and more about how the dyslexic thinks and feels and the trials they face, probably an excellent book for any parent of a dyslexic in the school system.

[Allison · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good as a refrence source but not the best book I have read on the topic