This book tells the engaging story of why it makes no sense to continue with the age-old conflict between phonics and meaning when considering reading instruction for students-particularly those students most in need. Both authors have children with dyslexia, and their first-hand knowledge of children as victims lost amongst professional debate is evident in this book. Parents of children with dyslexia, as well as professionals, will find this book packed with useful information.
Sharon Vaughn, H.E., professor, University of Texas, and director, Vaughn Gross Center for Reading and Language Arts A very reasonable, well-written overview of the reading debate—the 'reading glitch'—that unnecessarily dissipates resources and energy from the primary purpose of teachers and schools: to best teach all children. [The] anecdotes and interviews are on the mark, the context in which [the authors] frame current and historical issues in the ongoing debate are both interesting and informative, and the conclusions are, in my view, also on the mark. I could recommend [the] approach to the concerned and educated parent, and I believe that school psychologists and others dealing with children having significant reading difficulties would find practical approaches, based on sound theory, in dealing with these difficulties.
Alex Thomas, chair, Educational Psychology Department, Miami University (Oxford, Ohio); past president, National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) Written language is a gift bestowed on us by our cultural heritage. This book is a compelling account of the difficulties families face in their attempts to invoke this life-supporting skill in their children. Through personal stories, we become privy to the tough situations that exist in families across all social strata, as well as the frustrating realities of education, research and politics. Through this book, we come to realize that we need to do much better if we are to achieve positive outcomes for these children.
Guinevere Eden, director, Center for the Study of Learning, and associate professor, Department of Pediatrics, Georgetown University Medical Cen Written by two parents of dyslexic children, this text argues for restoring phonics, which can be particularly helpful for children with learning disabilities.
Reference and Research Book News
Lee Sherman and Betsy Ramsey have combined significant literary and journalistic talents, scientific expertise, and the sensitivity of dedicated advocates to provide us with a tour through the hearts and minds of the casualties of the reading wars. Their analysis of what went wrong, what went right, and where we are going is cogent, authoritative, and, believe it or not, a page-turning literary experience you will not soon forget!
Emerson Dickman, Esq., president, International Dyslexia Association