Thank You, Mr. Falker

Thank You, Mr. Falker

book

2012, Children's Books, Growing Up & Facts of Life

WISE
83%

WISE Score

4.9

Amazon

The real story of how Patricia Polacco survived dyslexia, bullies, and feeling 'dumb'—until one teacher changed everything.

Amazon4.9
Common Sense Media

Where to Read

Amazon
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble
Libby
Libby

Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)

Screenwise Verdict

This is one of those picture books that does real emotional work. Polacco doesn't sugarcoat the pain of being the kid who can't read while everyone else flies through chapter books, or the cruelty of classmates who smell vulnerability. But she also shows the flip side: a teacher who refuses to give up, a family that provides unconditional love, and a girl who discovers her own strength.

It's particularly valuable for families navigating learning disabilities—seeing dyslexia represented by a now-successful author and illustrator is powerful validation. For neurotypical kids, it builds empathy and understanding that 'smart' looks different for everyone.

The bullying scenes require some emotional maturity, so this works best as a shared read with space for questions rather than just handing it to a struggling reader and hoping it helps. The message is ultimately hopeful and the 4.9 Amazon rating reflects how many families have found it genuinely meaningful. A solid, honest book about a tough subject.

Age Fit

Best for ages 6-12, particularly kids in early elementary who are navigating reading skills and social dynamics. Younger kids (5-6) can handle it as a read-aloud with parent support for the bullying content. By middle school, most kids will have moved past picture books unless they have a personal connection to learning differences.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
92

Patricia Polacco's autobiographical story models perseverance, empathy, and the transformative power of a caring teacher. The narrative handles bullying and learning struggles with emotional honesty while maintaining hope. Shows genuine kindness without being saccharine—Mr. Falker's dedication and Trisha's family support create a warm, affirming message about overcoming challenges.

Imaginative
72

Polacco's distinctive illustrations bring visual creativity to a largely realistic, autobiographical narrative. The story invites kids to imagine overcoming their own challenges and see learning differences through a new lens, but it's not particularly fantastical or exploratory—it's grounded in real-world classroom struggle. The imaginative element comes more from the artistic presentation than the plot itself.

Safe
82

The book includes scenes of bullying (kids calling Trisha 'dumb' and 'stupid') and the emotional pain of struggling with dyslexia, which can be intense for sensitive readers. However, these challenges are age-appropriate and ultimately resolved positively. No graphic content, violence, or inappropriate material—just honest depictions of school-based social cruelty that many kids will recognize. The emotional weight is real but handled with care.

Enriching
88

Exceptional for building empathy around learning disabilities and neurodivergence. Kids with reading struggles will see themselves validated; neurotypical kids gain understanding of what classmates might be experiencing. The story demonstrates that intelligence comes in many forms and that the right support can unlock potential. Strong messages about advocacy, persistence, and the life-changing impact of educators who truly see their students.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Authentic representation of dyslexia and learning disabilities from someone who lived it
  • Shows kids that struggling to read doesn't mean you're not smart—Trisha could draw and paint beautifully
  • Celebrates teachers who go the extra mile and truly see their students
  • The family scenes of reading together are genuinely sweet and model literacy as connection
  • Polacco's illustrations are distinctive and add warmth to a tough subject
⚠

What to Watch For

  • Bullying scenes where kids call Trisha 'dumb' and 'stupid'—may hit hard for kids currently struggling in school
  • The emotional weight of feeling like a failure can be intense, especially for sensitive or perfectionistic kids
  • Best as a read-aloud with discussion rather than independent reading for younger kids who might need processing support

Conversation Starters

  • "Have you ever felt like something was really hard for you that seemed easy for other kids? What was that like?"
  • "Why do you think some kids were mean to Trisha about her reading? How could they have acted differently?"
  • "Mr. Falker saw that Trisha was smart even though she couldn't read yet. What are some ways people can be smart besides reading?"
  • "If you had a friend who was struggling with something at school, what would you do to help them feel better?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic

Writing about Thank You, Mr. Falker? Put this WISE score on your site