Dr. Reid is an international psychologist, experienced teacher, and expert in the field of dyslexia. He passionately advocates the strengths and positive aspects of dyslexia. Dr. Reid is an established author with over 30 books written on dyslexia, literacy, learning, and motivation which are used worldwide as course books. He serves as director of the Red Rose School in the UK as well as Global Educational Consultancies and as a consultant at institutions such as the BBC in the UK and the Child Early Intervention Medical Center (CEIMC) in Dubai.

Can you tell us about the idea behind your book “Dyslexia: A Practitioner's Handbook”?G: The book is meant to be comprehensive so it covers most of the aspects of dyslexia. I originally wrote the first edition in 1994 as a course book for a masters course in Dyslexia and it has been used for that purpose since then. The second edition I wrote in Edinburgh, the third edition in 2002 in New Zealand and the 4th edition in 2009 in Vancouver and the current 5th edition I write part in Vancouver and part in Edinburgh. I currently reside in Vancouver.
The main premise was to bridge theory and practice. I also wanted to give comprehensive coverage of the assessment process.

Who can benefit from reading this book?G: Teachers mainly and those undertaking further training in dyslexia.

What kind of research and expertise helped you to write your books?G: I have spoken at conferences in over 65 countries and this has helped to give me a breadth of the research around. I always pick up information and ideas from conferences and I hope in my talks I also give people ideas.
I was a classroom teacher for ten years and this has provided me with classroom insights. I have also conducted my own research and collaborated with many people in different countries.

What is your most memorable project and why?G: My first major project was to develop a teacher training programme for initial teacher education programmes at university level. There was very little about dyslexia in teacher training and this was a huge challenge. I am happy to say that I think I did make a difference and raised the profile and importance of dyslexia for teacher education. I believe it is very important that all teachers have an understanding of dyslexia.

What is your suggestion for families of children with disabilities to empower their children?G: The most important aspect is self esteem. Help them to believe in themself. Find out their strengths and help them use those strengths. Listen to what they say and how they feel. This helps them to feel empowered. It is crucial that they acknowledge that they can make a difference themselves and together parents and children can work it out. It is important that they do not feel alone - their challenges need to be accepted and treated with respect. We as adults are in a good position to help irrespective of our knowledge of dyslexia. Help them to believe in themselves that is the key!