
Reach for this book when your child feels defined by their struggles in school or believes they are not smart because they learn differently. This heartfelt memoir follows Tricia, a young girl whose reading difficulties make her a target for a dismissive substitute teacher. When a supportive educator recognizes her artistic genius and sends her to Miss Chew's art class, Tricia discovers that her way of seeing the world is a gift, not a deficit. It is a powerful tool for rebuilding the self-esteem of children ages 6 to 10 who may be facing academic frustration. Parents will appreciate how it reframes learning disabilities as unique cognitive styles and celebrates the life-changing impact of a mentor who truly sees a child's potential.
The book directly addresses learning disabilities (specifically dyslexia) and the emotional toll of academic shaming. The approach is secular and realistic, rooted in the author's own life experience. The resolution is deeply hopeful and empowering.
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Sign in to write a reviewAn elementary-aged child who is starting to notice they are in the 'low' reading group or who feels anxious about school performance. It is perfect for the 'visual thinker' who feels misunderstood by traditional testing.
Parents should be prepared to discuss the substitute teacher's behavior, as her lack of empathy can be upsetting. The book can be read cold, but it benefits from a post-read chat about 'different kinds of smart.' A parent might choose this after their child comes home crying because they were singled out by a teacher or after a discouraging parent-teacher conference regarding learning gaps.
Younger children (6-7) will focus on the unfairness of the mean teacher and the beauty of the art. Older children (8-10) will resonate more deeply with the nuance of the learning struggle and the specific bond between mentor and student.
Unlike many books about dyslexia that focus on the mechanics of reading, this one focuses on the 'superpower' that often accompanies it: the ability to see and represent the world in three dimensions.
Tricia is a young girl struggling with reading in a classroom led by a rigid, traditional substitute teacher who views her as slow. However, she has an incredible talent for drawing. Mr. Donovan, another teacher, notices her gift and arranges for her to study with the school's art teacher, Miss Chew. Under Miss Chew's mentorship, Tricia learns to use her visual strengths to overcome her academic insecurities.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.