BOOKS TO READ

Creative Expression: Dr. John Graham Pole

The Short Bus: A Journey Beyond Normal by Jonathan Mooney ($10.98) Johnathan Mooney was labeled dyslexic and profoundly learning disabled as a child. After he grew up and graduated from Brown University he bought a "short bus" and began traveling the country, meeting with other labeled people and asking, "What is normal"? He tells of thirteen people that he met on this journey whose lives challenged even his ideas of 'normal
Learning Disabilities and Life Stories by Pano Rodis, Andrew Garrod, Mary Lynn Boscardin (47.94) Many people study the different types of learning disabilities and forget the most important part of the study, that these are not just 'disabilities', they are people. Thirteen of these people write autobiographical essays in an attempt to show us what it is like living with learning disabilities and try to shatter the myths that so many people hold on to. Five notable scholars also write essays on the topic. This is for educators, parents, or older students who have learning disabilities.

Laughing Allegra: The Inspiring Story of a Mother's Struggle and Triumph Raising a Daughter with Learning Disabilities by Anne Ford, John-Richard Thompson, Mel Levine ($13.22) The author of this book, Anne Ford, is the mother to a child with severe learning disabilities. She is also the great-granddaughter of Henry Ford. She intertwines their story and the sadness, anger, confusion and eventual triumphs that come with dealing with learning disabilities with helpful insights and information that can help the reader who is dealing with similar problems. She shows that wealth and social status have nothing to do with ones ability to love, accept, and help their child with special needs.

Wrightslaw: Special Education Law, 2nd Edition (Perfect Paperback by Peter W. D. Wright; Pamela Darr Wright ($19.77) This book is wonderful for any parent who needs clearer definitions of special education laws. Pam & Peter Wright are the authors and creators of Wrightslaw.com, which is the first place I go when I have a question about one special education law or another. This book is the second edition and is significantly expanded to include IDEA 2004 as well as the No Child Left Behind Act and Section 504 laws. Nobody who buys this book will be disappointed

Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide by Peter W. D. Wright, Pamela Darr Wright ($19.55) Can you tell I have a couple of favorite authors when it comes to helping parents be advocates for their children? The Wright team is an amazing resource for parents. This book has some of the same information at the one above, but it is written especially for parents who have not traveled the path of the IEP before. It is great for parents who have experience with IEPs also. This book takes each law and breaks it down, showing how it will benefit your child.

How To Reach And Teach Children with ADD/ADHD: Practical Techniques, Strategies, and Interventions (J-B Ed: Reach and Teach) by Sandra F. Rief M.A. ($21.75) This book is rife with ideas, tools, and strategies for teachers and parents alike. Everyone who works with children will benefit from this book. It does give practical ways to help children with ADD and ADHD realize their potential. The great thing about this book, is that the strategies are really good for all children, even those who are not diagnosed with ADD or ADHD.