How Tony Learned to Read: Growing Up Dyslexic

WhenTony was in 3rd Grade and could not Read or Write, His parents asked the school to test him for Dyslexia. After a week of tests, the "experts" said "Tony's only problem is a Pushy Mother."

The next day they called a neurologist. After hours of tests, he said, "Tony, you are extremely intelligent. You are also severely Dyslexic. You might never learn to read or write."

Tony spent 3 1/2 years in a small class with a teacher trained to teach dyslexic students. Now he faced Middle School, still not able to read or write but Middle School was wonderful. He had a special ed teacher who read his tests and wrote his answers. Finally, Tony did well in school. He was no longer a failure. But Tony was determined to be a physics teacher. How would he get through High School, College, and Grad School?

This is Tony's story, written by Tony and his mother. It will help you understand:

--How painful it is to be the only kid in the class who can't read. Tony couldn't tell anyone how he felt because it hurt too much to even think about it.

--How Tony failed again and again but how he also found amazing ways to be a great success. Being a success at something gives kids the strength to keep working.

--How families with a dyslexic child can understand and support them and help them learn.

--How dyslexic children feel when people think they are lazy or urge them to just try harder. These children are already trying their very best.

-- And how, after college and grad school, Tony finally taught himself to read.

This is a powerful story, an inspirational story that might make you laugh and sometimes cry. It's a story of courage and determination. It's a story you will not forget.