Dyslexia: A History

"Kirby and Snowling tackle this issue by broadening the definition of dyslexia, bypassing the either-or binary of medical vs. social models of disability, instead contending that it embraces both. Moreover, they provide a rich historical foundation, recalling when the term dyslexia was coined in the late 19th century in reference to 'word blindness, ' meaning the inability to recognize words. Not only is dyslexia a learning difficulty that affects fluency in reading and spelling, but it impacts phonological awareness, visual memory, and verbal processing speed across intellectual abilities. This highly readable, fact-filled book will support parents, families, professionals, students, researchers, and those with dyslexia. Recommended, all readers." Choice
'Kirby and Snowling offer a superb understanding of the trends and issues relating to dyslexia from the late nineteenth century to present day. Far more than a chronology, this is an astute and cleverly researched account of the concept of dyslexia, its controversy, and the academic, political, and social influences that have shaped our current understanding of this disability. An outstanding piece of work.' Gavin Reid, co-author of The Dyslexia Assessment
"This is an enlightening and absorbing introduction to a crucial concept within the history of learning difficulties, charting its origins, pathways, meanings, contestations, successes and, most importantly, the obstructions and challenges it places in the lives of those who experience it." History of Education
"Dyslexic people, including myself, as well as anyone else concerned with the question of how best to comprehend this situated character of reading in literate times will benefit greatly from Dyslexia: A History." Historical Studies in Education/Revue d'histoire de l'éducation