You may have seen the hit movie
World War Z, staring Brad Pitt,
on the big screen, but do you know the story behind the film?
The blockbuster is based on a best selling book of the same title written by author
Max Brooks, who happens to also be a huge dyslexia champion because he is dyslexic himself. Brook's three massively successful zombie-themed novels are about persevering in a time when everything is different, which may be seen as metaphor for what it was like for Brooks growing up with dyslexia.
We first encountered Max in 2014 when he gave an
electrifying speech in front of Congress representatives and policy makers on Capitol Hill.
“For me, dyslexia was nearly as bad as the feelings of anxiety, shame, and low self-esteem that it caused. . . I’ve spent the last 30 years unlearning the lesson that dyslexia taught me, that society has no use for me. . .
“A little awareness and flexible teaching methods could unlock unlimited potential in these kids who now think they’re losers. If we already have mandatory racial sensitivity training for our police, why not have mandatory dyslexia recognition training for our teachers? It’s so simple, so easy, and when you look at all the other government programs designed to help citizens help themselves, it’s probably the least expensive.”
We are excited to announce that Max Brooks will be delivering the keynote speech titled Taking on World War D: Dyslexia at out Spotlight on Dyslexia online conference for parents and educators on December 4, 2015.
In his keynote address, Brooks will share how he overcame his own self-esteem issues caused by school struggles to become the best-selling author of
World War Z,
The Zombie Survival Guide, and
The Zombie Survival Guide: Recorded Attacks. His latest book,
The Harlem Hellfighters, is a graphic novel that explores the little-known story of the first African American regiment mustered to fight during World War I.
At our Spotlight on Dyslexia online conference, experience interactive sessions with over 20 expert speakers including not only Max Brooks, but also Dr. Kelli Sandman-Hurley, Margie Gillis, and Jamie Martin. Register today to take advantage of discounted early bird pricing. We also offer group rates and Learning Ally member discounts.