Now I understand why many parents and teachers of dyslexic kids have not bought my book, Teach Your Child to Read — which is a complete programme with a QR Code for each chapter.
A few days ago, I found myself in a thoughtful LinkedIn exchange with R. Janet Walraven, M.Ed., an international award-winning author and passionate educator. The topic? Helping children—especially those who struggle—learn to read confidently and correctly.
Janet shared her positive experience with the READ RIGHT program, noting its strong success rate: 99.9% of her regular and special-education students, including those with dyslexia, learned to read as well as they could speak. She pointed out that while some kids learn naturally, 85% need structured help by third grade, with many hitting a wall by fifth grade.
In response, I mentioned my own book as an affordable, self-guided alternative that achieves similar results for a fraction of the cost. It includes QR codes so children can work independently—no adult supervision required. This makes it especially practical for parents who may not read fluently or for busy families.
Janet replied kindly: “Yes, I’m sure that’s a good way to start for children K-2.”
That’s when it struck me.
Her comment was gracious, yet it reflected a very human tendency: forming an opinion based on the first few lines rather than the full story. It perfectly illustrated the proverb: “Don’t judge a book by its cover” — or, more accurately here, don’t decide after reading only the first chapter.
Because Teach Your Child to Read is not just for kindergarten and first grade. After completing the 30 short lessons, children (including “shut-down kids” and those with dyslexia) can confidently read advanced words like sharp, sheared, sharper, shank, and many more.
The complete programme teaches:
Memorization of Dolch sight words
Strategies for decoding unfamiliar words
All the different sounds of the vowels
Use of context clues
It equips any child to handle real reading challenges, not just the basics.
That’s why I replied in the discussion: “Get a copy and read the entire book—which can be done in one sitting—and then let’s discuss this.”
The same invitation goes to you.
In education and in life, it’s easy to scan the beginning and assume we know the whole story. Real understanding comes only when we give something the full chance it deserves.
As a tutor who has worked with many children who had given up on reading, I’ve seen the transformation that happens when a method is properly explored. Teach Your Child to Read was written precisely for families who need a practical, low-cost, effective solution.
If you’re a parent, teacher, or grandparent concerned about a child’s reading struggles — especially dyslexia or that fifth-grade wall — I invite you to follow the proverb’s wisdom: read the entire book before deciding. Get your copy here (paperback or Kindle):
(Also available affordably via Payhip for instant digital access.)
It really can be read in one sitting. Once you’ve finished, I’d genuinely value your thoughts.
Because the best evaluations aren’t made after the first chapter.
They’re made after the final page.
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