Lily and the Mixed Up Letters

We have had a few kids in our class reading The Lightning Thief lately and we've talked about how the main character has trouble in school. My students have made connections with this challenge. It's been interesting to talk about how they have sympathy for children who struggle and how they feel when they struggle.

Goodreads summary:

When Lily was in kindergarten she enjoyed school and she was happy. Now, she’s in grade 2 and she doesn’t feel like she’s good at anything. The trouble is reading. Whenever she tries, the letters jump around and get all mixed up — and so does she.

When Lily’s teacher announces that the children will read in front of their parents, Lily finally finds the courage to tell her mother about her problem. By working together, Lily’s mom, teacher, and friend Grace find a way to help Lily understand that she has very important strengths and talents. With hard work and new confidence, Lily surprises everyone — even herself — by the time the parents come to hear the kids read.

Gentle illustrations by France Brassard realistically portray the fear, isolation, and low self-esteem that children with dyslexia can experience. Deborah Hodge’s Lily and the Mixed-up Lettersis a reassuring read for any child in need of a boost in confidence.