Drs. Brock and Fernette Eide’s short documentary The Dyslexic Advantage is designed to challenge stigma and reframe how we think about dyslexia. Rather than portraying it solely as a learning difficulty, the film emphasizes the unique strengths associated with dyslexic thinking, showing how some of the most accomplished minds—scientists, entrepreneurs, and artists—owe their innovations not in spite of dyslexia, but because of it.
The documentary highlights stories such as Dr. Robert Ballard, discoverer of the Titanic, and filmmaker Lauren Havel, who speak about how dyslexia shaped their creative and problem-solving abilities. It also introduces practical ideas through the Eides’ MIND framework, which breaks down areas where dyslexics often excel (Material reasoning, Interconnected reasoning, Narrative reasoning, and Dynamic reasoning). While the film does not present new scientific research and often leans heavily on the Eides’ own book of the same name, its purpose is less about academic rigor and more about communicating inspiration and accessibility.
For librarians, educators, and parents, the key question is whether this film functions as a useful tool. In many respects, it does. Though it is not a diagnostic resource, The Dyslexic Advantage helps viewers better understand how dyslexic students perceive and process information. Parents who are new to dyslexia may find reassurance in seeing examples of successful dyslexic adults, and homeschooling families may find the film’s approachable visuals and explanations a helpful entry point before turning to more technical resources. Teachers and professionals may appreciate how the film can be paired with the Eides’ book or the forthcoming classroom guides (advertised on the filmmakers’ website) to spark discussion, encourage student self-advocacy, and build awareness in the classroom.
That said, the film sometimes feels like an extended introduction to the Eides’ book rather than a standalone educational resource. For those looking for deep clinical or scientific analysis, this title may not suffice. However, when used alongside the book, or as part of a broader collection that includes titles like Embracing Dyslexia (2013) or The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia (2012), it offers an accessible and hopeful lens that can make a real difference for families and educators navigating the challenges of dyslexia.
How can The Dyslexic Advantage support parents and educators new to dyslexia?
For parents or educators encountering dyslexia for the first time, this film provides an inspiring introduction to the condition, emphasizing that it does not define or restrict future possibilities. Newcomers can then decide if they want to take the next step, exploring strategic treatments, courses, or clinical resources to help support learning. For established or experienced educators and clinicians, this documentary is a useful resource to share with new parents, helping them understand the upside of possibilities and encouraging a strengths-based perspective.
Why should libraries add The Dyslexic Advantage to their collections?
Public and academic libraries with collections on neurodivergence, special education, or learning disorders should consider adding The Dyslexic Advantage. It is suitable for high school audiences and above, and its optimistic framing makes it especially valuable for parents, new teachers, and professionals seeking to encourage strengths-based perspectives. The film is most effective when paired with the companion book or as part of a program that includes additional resources.
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