The Dyslexic Fiddler Crab is a book for kids who struggle with feeling different or discouraged about having dyslexia. I wish I had this book when I was struggling in school when there was little focus or research on learning disabilities. Although this book specifically addresses dyslexia, it would also encourage kids who struggle with other learning differences.
In The Dyslexic Fiddler Crab, you will read the stories of six students who struggled with dyslexia and how they turned their situation around, discovering that they had advantages and strengths that non-dyslexic kids do not have.
The Dyslexic Fiddler Crab is a wonderful, engaging resource. Its QR codes link to videos for each of the student authors and to an audiobook version in which the author reads the book to you.
I sent the author some questions. Here are her responses.
What inspired you to write this?
As a middle and high school writing teacher, I always assign a memoir project at the end of the year. After several years, I noticed four remarkable similarities in the stories of my dyslexic students:
1. They had never told anyone about what it was like to have dyslexia in school–and almost all of them experienced trauma.
2. They didn’t really know what dyslexia was! They just felt like something was wrong with them.
3. They each had amazing gifts and wisdom beyond their years.
4. After reading the stories of other kids with dyslexia and writing their own, they transformed from victims…to powerful advocates!
What do you hope will be accomplished by this book?
By vulnerably and courageously sharing their stories, my students (and I) hope to inspire all of the above in other dyslexic kids who are struggling: a safe place to share their stories, knowledge about dyslexia, recognition of their amazing gifts, and personal empowerment!
What’s one special thing you learned or will take away from the experience of creating this work?
My six co-authors, Kenyon, Wright, Nora, Joshua, Katharine, and Garrison, have taught me more about dyslexia than any course I have taken or book I have read. Their stories of heartbreak, courage, and resilience have inspired me, challenged me, and informed me. They have also stolen my heart, and I am forever grateful that we got to work on this book together. They are my heroes.
The book Trailer https://youtu.be/zDsPMaclLGE