Episode 13 of Literacy Talks takes listeners into an unusually personal space—a moving conversation between host Donell Pons and her son Bridger. In this episode titled Through the Eyes of Dyslexia: A Mother-Son Story, listeners hear firsthand how dyslexia shapes not just academic paths but emotional lives, identities, and family relationships.
Reading Horizons recaps this episode to highlight what educators, parents, and literacy advocates can learn from one young man’s journey through dyslexia—and the mother who walked it with him.
A Story of Early Struggles and Discovery
Bridger’s story begins with early signs that reading and writing were not coming easily. Diagnosed with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia, Bridger’s academic journey often felt like a mismatch with how his brain worked. What emerged, however, was a remarkable ability to tell stories and connect emotionally with others through imagination and creativity.
Donell shares the emotional complexities of parenting a child who was misunderstood in school, even by educators who were aware of his diagnosis. She reflects on moments of helplessness, advocacy, and ultimately, pride in watching Bridger find his own voice.
From Misunderstood Learner to Emerging Writer
A powerful thread throughout the episode is Bridger’s lifelong connection to storytelling. Unable to access reading easily as a child, he developed a sharp sense of narrative and emotional tone by listening—and by telling stories himself. His mother recalls his early stories beginning with, “I’m going to tell you something you don’t know that is mostly true,” a phrase that captures both his curiosity and creativity.
Bridger discusses how, despite remediation and progress, he still felt like he straddled two worlds: not fully part of the dyslexic community anymore, but still different from typical learners. This in-between space, while sometimes isolating, has also fueled his creative drive.
Key Themes from the Conversation
This episode touches on several essential themes for educators and families:
Recognizing the Emotional Impact of Dyslexia
Dyslexia is more than a reading difficulty—it affects how students see themselves. Misunderstanding and under-support can lead to lasting emotional scars, as Bridger shares from his own experience.
The Power of Supportive Intervention
Donell credits intensive, early intervention—including sessions at the University of Utah Reading Clinic—as critical to Bridger’s success. Their story is a testament to the life-changing power of timely and evidence-based instruction.
Storytelling as Survival and Self-Expression
For Bridger, storytelling became a way to connect, be seen, and work through the world. He references story expert Brian McDonald as a mentor figure whose work helped him articulate what he had long understood intuitively: that story is about survival, teaching, and truth.
Viewing Struggling Readers Through a Different Lens
One of the episode’s strongest messages is that “different is not deficient.” Students who struggle with reading may be telling stories we don’t yet know how to hear.
Books and Resources Mentioned
- Brian McDonald – Bridger discusses how McDonald’s work helped him make sense of storytelling. McDonald is the author of:
- International Dyslexia Association (IDA) – Resource for understanding the definition and indicators of dyslexia. Visit IDA
- National Center on Improving Literacy – Evidence-based information on supporting dyslexic learners. Visit NCIL
Takeaways for Educators and Parents
- Students with dyslexia often experience school as emotionally challenging—even with support.
- Literacy instruction should be paired with empathy and attention to emotional development.
- Creative strengths may show up early and outside of traditional academic tasks.
- Understanding a student’s full story can lead to better connection and more effective teaching.
Listen to the Episode
To hear the full conversation, listen to Episode 13 of Literacy Talks:
Through the Eyes of Dyslexia: A Mother-Son Story
Listen here
This episode is a reminder that literacy is not just about reading—it’s about connection, compassion, and hearing the full story behind the learner.
