I had the opportunity last weekend to hear Henry Winkler speak at a local fundraiser. While most of us know Winkler as “the Fonz” and other characters, what many don’t know is that he is dyslexic. At this fundraiser for a local children’s treatment program, he entertained the audience with stories and jokes about his growing up years, his acting career, and so forth. But there was also a more serious message about issues such as low self esteem in children with learning disabilities. The message was a positive one of learning to overcome and compensate for dyslexia, and of replacing negatives with positives in general. A graduate of the Yale School of Drama, he went on to achieve more than many of his Yale classmates.

So, it is fitting that he is the author (with Lin Oliver) of a series of children’s books called “Hank Zipzer: The World’s Greatest Underachiever.” This boxed set includes the first 4 volumes: #1 Niagara Falls, Or Does It?; #2 I Got a “D” in Salami; #3 Day of the Iguana; and #4 The Zippity Zinger. There are 9 books in the series altogether, so far, with more on the way.

These books have come highly recommended as a resource for children, especially those with learning disabilities themselves. Hank Zipzer may be just the role model your young clients need and a welcome addition to your professional social worker’s bookshelf!

And, if you get the chance to hear Henry Winkler speak, prepare yourself to be inspired, motivated, and entertained!