Description: Little Trisha grew up in a family who loved books. Her brother loved reading, and her mother, grandmother, and grandfather always read to her. When Trisha started kindergarten, her family assumed she would soon learn to read too. But even as she moved through first grade, then second grade, Trisha still couldn't read. Even by fifth grade, she still hadn't learned. Her grandmother comforted her, reminding her that everyone has their own unique strengths. But when her classmates began teasing her, calling her "dumb" because she couldn't read, Trisha started to dread going to school. During every break, she would hide in her own secret space to escape the kids who chased and mocked her. Not being able to read was hard enough on its own — but having a family full of readers at home and being teased at school made things so much harder for Trisha. Yet there was someone who opened the door to that 'small, dark, suffocating space' and led her out 'into a world full of light.' That person was none other than Mr. Falker. At last, Trisha was able to join the other children in a bright, open, sunlit space. This story about a child with dyslexia is also the autobiographical account of author and illustrator Patricia Polacco, who also created *Thunder Cake*. Because it is her own story, the book captures a child's despair and hope with remarkable sensitivity. Mr. Falker also stands as a powerful example of what a true teacher can be — and what an adult can mean to a child's life.