Anne Ford is an experienced mom who has been through the trenches and has written this book to guide you through the journey with your child's learning disabilities, from pre-diagnosis to experienced advocate. It is written with both sensitivity and practicality. Having been there herself, Anne is able to write with compassionate understanding of the concerns and worries parents face.

In addition to her own experience, Anne's book shares the wisdom of several experts and of other moms and dads who share their insight to shed light on this emotional issue. Especially geared toward families just beginning this journey, A Special Mother walks you through diagnosis and ultimately to an acceptance of that diagnosis before moving onward, step-by-step, through evaluations, record-keeping, and education plans. I found the section on record-keeping to be most enlightening with its excellent advice on which records to keep, how to store them, and even how to share records and notes so that they have the most impact with the school system and with doctors. Special attention is also given to relationships: playmates for your child, sibling situations, support for parents, and marriage relationships.

The book is a beautiful blend of sensitive encouragement and practical solutions. With gentle care, it guides you through fears and frustrations. And with eye-opening clarity, it helps you set goals and find answers. If you or someone you know has a child with learning disabilities or related disorders, I cannot recommend this book highly enough for practical and emotional support along the way.

Product review by Jennifer Harrison, The Old Schoolhouse^® Magazine, LLC, August 2010