The section 'Living in the Non-Dyslexic World' forms the bulk of this book and, for me, is the most interesting since it captures actual life experiences of adults who have struggled to make sense of their lives in a world that is often not 'dyslexia-friendly'. I found myself wishing that everyone my son encounters - teachers, employers, friends - would read it, not only to get a realistic view of the problems and difficulties encountered by many dyslexic adults, but also to understand the creative strengths they may possess.

Starting Points, the first section of the book, explores the cognitive profile of adults, offering a theoretical framework for understanding dyslexia. Especially valuable are the issues associated with diagnosis of adults. The third and final section, Turning Points, looks at dyslexia in the 21st century and how changes in the world of education, work and technology may profoundly influence the way in which dyslexic people are perceived by the non-dyslexic world. The authors even suggest that the creativity often associated with dyslexia may become an increasing asset in the changing world.

Based on semi-structured interviews with fourteen dyslexic people, ranging in age from 10 to 73, the authors weave the life experiences of these men and women (as well as those of others with whom they have worked) into a range of themes covering family, work and education. There are many examples of how dyslexia impacts on behaviour and self-esteem, particularly in adults who did not receive the benefit of early diagnosis. Told through their own words, the stories give a 'voice' to many people who have previously been ignored. I particularly liked the inter-generational study, which compares the experiences of a young mother (whose dyslexia was not identified until she was 24, and who subsequently trained as a primary school teacher) and those of her 10-year-old son, Lee, whose self-esteem seems exceptionally high compared to that of his mother. The story is rounded off by an interview with Lee's grandmother, who had no knowledge of dyslexia when her daughter was growing up and now has the benefit of seeing the difference between her daughter's experiences and those of her grandson.

The authors, both of whom emigrated to England from the US, have extensive experience working as teachers, trainers and researchers in the field of adult dyslexia. Their book will appeal to a wide range of readers, including non-dyslexic members of the dyslexic adult's family, teachers, employers, friends and, perhaps most importantly, to dyslexic adults themselves. For them this book will bring the relief of recognition, knowing they are by no means alone in this non-dyslexic world.

Reviewer:
Erica Hunningher
London, England.
Email: ericahun@aol.com