Ally Nickerson has changed seven schools in seven years. In each of the schools she spends most of her time at the principals office, as she tends to cover her inability to read by being disruptive. The words and the alphabets on the page seem to dance before her eyes whenever she tries to read. However, Ally’s new teacher Mr. Daniel, takes the time to really understand Ally, what makes her tick, what she enjoys, talking to her and encouraging her constantly. Ally is deeply ashamed that she cannot read. She is however very talented in art and at making ‘mind movies’. Mr. Daniel helps her to understand that she has dyslexia but that she is intelligent, just in a different way. Slowly Ally’s confidence grows as she gets more comfortable with herself. She connects with her teacher, two of her classmates who become her closest friends and over time with her other class mates as well. There is of course the class bully and her blind followers. But the book also highlights the quiet leaders. This is a great book for:
Children with learning difficulties to help them see that they have their own intelligence and a fabulous book to inspire and boost their confidence
For children without learning difficulties, to help them understand and support their classmates with learning difficulties
For teachers....omg!!! Just such a ‘must read’ for teachers or anyone connected with education.
And then there is the beautiful, beautiful ending filled with love! This is a wonderfully thought-provoking book filled with a spunky and endearing protagonist, a quirky cast of characters and bursts with the love of family and true friendships, courage, an inspirational teacher who goes way beyond the extra mile to encourage Ally, and hope for children with learning difficulties, their parents and teachers.
Everyone is smart in different ways. But if you judge a fish on its ability to climb a tree, it will spend its whole life thinking that he’s stupid.”
“....logically, if a person was to pull another down, it would mean that he or she is already below that person.”