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Spellbound: My Life as a Dyslexic Wordsmith
The A-list comedian tells the story of his unlikely path to success while struggling with severe dyslexia.
When Phil Hanley entered first grade, he realized something that would forever set him apart from his schoolmates, he couldn’t read. His teachers were ill-equipped to assist him and wrote him off as a hopeless case. Phil slipped through the school's cracks, year by year falling farther and farther behind his friends, only passing to each next grade because of his mother’s interventions. Finally, he was diagnosed with dyslexia, a learning disability that would shape the rest of his life.
In Spellbound, Phil Hanley shares his experience living with debilitating dyslexia. Unable to pursue college or a traditional job, Phil was thrust into a life to be defined by unconventional twists. He moved to Europe and became a successful runway model, a job that suitably kept him away from pens and paper. In search of fulfillment that couldn’t be found posing for a Docker’s ad, Phil retreated home to Vancouver where, desperate to manage the mental health issues connected to living with dyslexia, he turned to an all-consuming obsession with Transcendental Meditation. Finally, he found himself on a stage with a microphone, a spotlight, and five minutes of jokes. Stand-up became the first pursuit that the more Phil put into it, the more he got out, and something that he compellingly argues, saved his life. Spellbound is a story of humor and also of struggle and heartbreak, of constantly living in a world that sees things differently than you, and of triumph over adversity.
Phil shows us that dyslexia can be a huge challenge, but having it does not spell certain condemnation (nor can he). Just that the dyslexia has been more than a blessing in his life–it’s been his north star.
When Phil Hanley entered first grade, he realized something that would forever set him apart from his schoolmates, he couldn’t read. His teachers were ill-equipped to assist him and wrote him off as a hopeless case. Phil slipped through the school's cracks, year by year falling farther and farther behind his friends, only passing to each next grade because of his mother’s interventions. Finally, he was diagnosed with dyslexia, a learning disability that would shape the rest of his life.
In Spellbound, Phil Hanley shares his experience living with debilitating dyslexia. Unable to pursue college or a traditional job, Phil was thrust into a life to be defined by unconventional twists. He moved to Europe and became a successful runway model, a job that suitably kept him away from pens and paper. In search of fulfillment that couldn’t be found posing for a Docker’s ad, Phil retreated home to Vancouver where, desperate to manage the mental health issues connected to living with dyslexia, he turned to an all-consuming obsession with Transcendental Meditation. Finally, he found himself on a stage with a microphone, a spotlight, and five minutes of jokes. Stand-up became the first pursuit that the more Phil put into it, the more he got out, and something that he compellingly argues, saved his life. Spellbound is a story of humor and also of struggle and heartbreak, of constantly living in a world that sees things differently than you, and of triumph over adversity.
Phil shows us that dyslexia can be a huge challenge, but having it does not spell certain condemnation (nor can he). Just that the dyslexia has been more than a blessing in his life–it’s been his north star.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published March 18, 2025
64 people are currently reading
6,938 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
February 23, 2025
Thank you @henryholt for the gifted copy of Spellbound! I read it today and have some thoughts.
I really enjoyed the beginning of this book. The author tells about the difficulties he endured as a child with dyslexia in the public school system (some appalling teacher behavior—where were the IEPs??). I assumed this would be the connective thread for the story, especially with the subtitle “My Life as a Dyslexic Wordsmith,� but once he started talking about his adult life, that thread was all but cut. The rest of the book read like a logbook or journal, just a retelling of his life experiences, with no theme or narrative. It was all over the place, with details that didn’t make any sense to me. For example, he tells about a landlady that drove him crazy with her insistence that he accompany her to church, and on the day he moves out to live with a friend, he watches a movie with her and says, “Mrs. O’Connor and I had looked at each other and made eye contact while laughing…It felt like divine intervention.� Huh? He still moves out, that movie didn’t change anything—what was being intervened? And who cares about the landlady? His interactions with her had no real effect on his life or his career or his struggle with dyslexia on his way to becoming a comedian. The book was filled with stories like that. I lost all investment and even struggled to connect with deeply private revelations about mental illness. For me, it was telling instead of showing, with flat writing and no clear point of view.
I think this book will be for people who are already familiar with and fans of the author. It’s always fun to get a peek behind the curtain of artists you follow. I was disappointed but still grateful to give the book a try.
I really enjoyed the beginning of this book. The author tells about the difficulties he endured as a child with dyslexia in the public school system (some appalling teacher behavior—where were the IEPs??). I assumed this would be the connective thread for the story, especially with the subtitle “My Life as a Dyslexic Wordsmith,� but once he started talking about his adult life, that thread was all but cut. The rest of the book read like a logbook or journal, just a retelling of his life experiences, with no theme or narrative. It was all over the place, with details that didn’t make any sense to me. For example, he tells about a landlady that drove him crazy with her insistence that he accompany her to church, and on the day he moves out to live with a friend, he watches a movie with her and says, “Mrs. O’Connor and I had looked at each other and made eye contact while laughing…It felt like divine intervention.� Huh? He still moves out, that movie didn’t change anything—what was being intervened? And who cares about the landlady? His interactions with her had no real effect on his life or his career or his struggle with dyslexia on his way to becoming a comedian. The book was filled with stories like that. I lost all investment and even struggled to connect with deeply private revelations about mental illness. For me, it was telling instead of showing, with flat writing and no clear point of view.
I think this book will be for people who are already familiar with and fans of the author. It’s always fun to get a peek behind the curtain of artists you follow. I was disappointed but still grateful to give the book a try.
March 22, 2025
A moving memoir by Canadian comedian, Phil Hanley and his experience growing up dyslexic and the struggles he's had with OCD, addiction and overall mental health. This was great on audio narrated by the author himself and perfect for fans of books like Being Henry or other Canadian celebs with dyslexia like Tie Domi or Keanu Reeves.
April 8, 2025
gift article re: the writing & recording process:
October 22, 2024
“So a dyslexic walks into a book publishing office…� The joke practically writes itself, doesn’t it? That’s how I felt when I saw my favorite comedian Phil Hanley was publishing a book. How could someone, who is known for his trouble with the written word, write a novel? It didn’t seem like a winning combination. But one of the many things I learned from Phil’s book is to never count him out. From his days in special education to his viral comedic clips on YouTube, Phil walks us through a beautiful story of his life and road to fame.
Thank you to Holt & Co for providing me with an advanced copy of this novel
Thank you to Holt & Co for providing me with an advanced copy of this novel
February 16, 2025
Thank you to Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ Giveaways and Henry Holt for the review copy of Spellbound by Phil Hanley on sale March 2025.
Phil’s story is unfortunately like many others in the public school system: he has a learning difference that was not diagnosed until early adolescence and as a result, teachers treated him like he was dumb, lazy, and not trying. The traumas of school, especially disrespectful teachers, followed him long into his adulthood.
Having dyslexia also made his experience significantly different after graduating. Instead of college, he pursued modeling for a time and then a long road to being the comic he is today.
The book has its funny moments, but it is not laugh out loud funny, though not to it’s detriment. It is an interesting window into the worlds of modeling and comedy. It is also a story of perusing a craft: the long, hard, dedicated life of learning and perfecting, the humility of starting at the bottom, and the stumbling climb of getting to know the business side.
Would I teach this book? Spellbound could easily be a part of a memoir class, either for writing or reading. The writing style is clean with an eye for detail. More impressive is the easy way (seemingly) of when to summarize and condense and when to explore and expand a moment.
It’s also a good book to show how to discuss a profession and educate an audience. There is a lot of information both about living with dyslexia and making it as a comic, but the information is not burdensome to the plot.
Phil’s story is unfortunately like many others in the public school system: he has a learning difference that was not diagnosed until early adolescence and as a result, teachers treated him like he was dumb, lazy, and not trying. The traumas of school, especially disrespectful teachers, followed him long into his adulthood.
Having dyslexia also made his experience significantly different after graduating. Instead of college, he pursued modeling for a time and then a long road to being the comic he is today.
The book has its funny moments, but it is not laugh out loud funny, though not to it’s detriment. It is an interesting window into the worlds of modeling and comedy. It is also a story of perusing a craft: the long, hard, dedicated life of learning and perfecting, the humility of starting at the bottom, and the stumbling climb of getting to know the business side.
Would I teach this book? Spellbound could easily be a part of a memoir class, either for writing or reading. The writing style is clean with an eye for detail. More impressive is the easy way (seemingly) of when to summarize and condense and when to explore and expand a moment.
It’s also a good book to show how to discuss a profession and educate an audience. There is a lot of information both about living with dyslexia and making it as a comic, but the information is not burdensome to the plot.
March 22, 2025
Phil Hanley is one of the funniest people I've ever seen. In his comedy, he jokes pretty openly about his dyslexia, and Spellbound expands on the history behind that joke.
From his early school days with unsupportive teachers to his modeling days in Italy, Phil weaves his life story and the people who helped him along the way. His mother, Joan, should be up for sainthood. Her support and love for her son are so pure.
Phil's origins in comedy started in high school, and his natural humor has carried him to late-night TV, the Air Bud series, and the hallowed basement of the Comedy Cellar. I think that Spellbound should be looked at as a triumph, for dyslexics, for Canadians, for comedians and Deadheads, and for Phil.
From his early school days with unsupportive teachers to his modeling days in Italy, Phil weaves his life story and the people who helped him along the way. His mother, Joan, should be up for sainthood. Her support and love for her son are so pure.
Phil's origins in comedy started in high school, and his natural humor has carried him to late-night TV, the Air Bud series, and the hallowed basement of the Comedy Cellar. I think that Spellbound should be looked at as a triumph, for dyslexics, for Canadians, for comedians and Deadheads, and for Phil.
March 19, 2025
When he called his mom to tell her he sold the book, I teared up.
March 22, 2025
Interesting enough bio. Good insights into dyslexia, overcoming the stigma and finding a career that fits one‘s abilities.
December 29, 2024
"I'd pray that I'd wake up smart."
"Spellbound My Life As A Dyslexic Wordsmith" was the book I needed to read, and I didn't even know it. Phil Hansley writes in a smooth, relatable way that puts you alongside him as he story tells of his life's adventures. His story of dedication and overcoming obstacles is very motivating and a breath of fresh air.
Many of the struggles he talked about I have seen in real life in some sort of way by being raised by my mother, who is severely dyslexic. She struggled tremendously but stayed focused and has become a successful business owner. I'd love to read this book to her because I know she will appreciate the rawness of the struggle and the way he is able to use dyslexia as a part of his comedy.
Overall, the book held my attention throughout and was an enjoyable read. I honestly started the book and couldn't put it down until I had it finished, devouring the book in one day. :)
Thank you so much to Holt & Co for allowing me the privilege to read this book before its release.
"Spellbound My Life As A Dyslexic Wordsmith" was the book I needed to read, and I didn't even know it. Phil Hansley writes in a smooth, relatable way that puts you alongside him as he story tells of his life's adventures. His story of dedication and overcoming obstacles is very motivating and a breath of fresh air.
Many of the struggles he talked about I have seen in real life in some sort of way by being raised by my mother, who is severely dyslexic. She struggled tremendously but stayed focused and has become a successful business owner. I'd love to read this book to her because I know she will appreciate the rawness of the struggle and the way he is able to use dyslexia as a part of his comedy.
Overall, the book held my attention throughout and was an enjoyable read. I honestly started the book and couldn't put it down until I had it finished, devouring the book in one day. :)
Thank you so much to Holt & Co for allowing me the privilege to read this book before its release.
October 23, 2024
I felt like this book could have gone more in depth to how having dyslexia has affected his life, how he copes with the issues that arise, and even go into detail about dyslexia and the stigma around it, how schools ignored/ignore needs and how they could improve or how a parent can advocate.
Hanley did touch on a few ways that dyslexia has affected him and how he managed, but I felt like the story didn't go deeper into those areas and it was just explained how he became a comic.
Thank you Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book.
Hanley did touch on a few ways that dyslexia has affected him and how he managed, but I felt like the story didn't go deeper into those areas and it was just explained how he became a comic.
Thank you Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book.
October 13, 2024
I became a fan and an admirer of Phil Hanley and his comedy from following his crowd work clips on Instagram. He's somehow both sweet and snarky at the same time and now after reading SPELLBOUND, I'm convinced he's a wizard and casts a spell, for I am even more enamored and charmed by him... and seeing his big heart of pure gold. There were several times throughout the book that I was moved emotionally and sometimes just one sentence could bring me tears. And of course, it's filled with his laugh-out-loud and wickedly sharp humor. He truly is a wordsmith.
I respected his attitude, of looking at the positive of even the difficult things that happened to me while still being honest with how much he struggled. Even though I'm not dyslexic, I still found myself connecting and relating to him in several ways including feeling directionless in life and dealing with self-doubt. It also made me realize how much I take reading and writing for granted and how much it can affect someone's day to day if they struggle in that avenue, and especially one's self-esteem and mental health.
I absolutely loved and adored his family and friends who have supported him from day one, and especially his mother. An incredible person and parent she is and reading Phil's story I'm so glad he has for his mom. She never once wavered her support and belief in her son, always gave him the patience, space and freedom he needed, and the encouragement to purse comedy. It was really cool to learn about all the connections he made along the way that would all help propel him further to his goal starting from his friend brining him to his first open-mic to a comedian connecting him with the booker of the legendary Comedy Cellar.
Reading about his path and all that it took for him (including all the challenging school years) to be where he is now, making people laugh all around the world is just incredible and inspiring. The last chapter really got to me. It was so fascinating to learn how he has created his own way of writing. His own language in which no one else is smart enough to understand. And also his effect on people, particularly students with learning disabilities. I look forward to the privileged chance of seeing him perform live one day.
Much, much gratitude to Henry Holt & Company and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
I respected his attitude, of looking at the positive of even the difficult things that happened to me while still being honest with how much he struggled. Even though I'm not dyslexic, I still found myself connecting and relating to him in several ways including feeling directionless in life and dealing with self-doubt. It also made me realize how much I take reading and writing for granted and how much it can affect someone's day to day if they struggle in that avenue, and especially one's self-esteem and mental health.
I absolutely loved and adored his family and friends who have supported him from day one, and especially his mother. An incredible person and parent she is and reading Phil's story I'm so glad he has for his mom. She never once wavered her support and belief in her son, always gave him the patience, space and freedom he needed, and the encouragement to purse comedy. It was really cool to learn about all the connections he made along the way that would all help propel him further to his goal starting from his friend brining him to his first open-mic to a comedian connecting him with the booker of the legendary Comedy Cellar.
Reading about his path and all that it took for him (including all the challenging school years) to be where he is now, making people laugh all around the world is just incredible and inspiring. The last chapter really got to me. It was so fascinating to learn how he has created his own way of writing. His own language in which no one else is smart enough to understand. And also his effect on people, particularly students with learning disabilities. I look forward to the privileged chance of seeing him perform live one day.
Much, much gratitude to Henry Holt & Company and NetGalley for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
February 4, 2025
A look into the life of comedian Phil Hanley. Growing up he struggled in school particularly with reading and writing. It’s discovered that he is dyslexic. In a time where schools weren’t equipped to help students with these learning difficulties, Phil was subjected to belittling by his own teachers, put into a special ed class-that did nothing to help him succeed, and at one point discouraged from taking advance courses. His mom Jane not only had the patience of a saint� was Phil’s biggest supporter. I do wonder if he was graduating from high school today- would that door for college been open wide for him? Instead of college he embarked on a career in modeling thanks to a friend. Definitely an interesting insight to the world of male modeling. Eventually Phil heads home with interest in improv. He has a knack for making folks laugh. He goes through a period where different doctors diagnose him with different concerns and he finds himself on multiple medications. Him sharing this open and honest account of depression. FYI I had no clue who comedian Phil Hanley was when I started this book. I ultimately had to scope out his instagram - he’s hilarious! Check him out! #goodreadsgiveaway #goodreadsgiveaways #goodreadswinner #humourous #memoir #dyslexic #jillianhereforthebooks
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2025
My late brother had dyslexia. There aren’t enough characters here for me to do his journey justice, but I will say that because of him I chose the career path I did, and I seek out any books related to dyslexia. There aren’t enough, so I was grateful Phil Hanley shared his story.
My brother would have loved it because it’s witty, truthful, and I’m certain would have made him feel seen and heard. Thirty or more years ago, there was much less knowledge of learning disabilities, much less known of how to actually help. And here we are again, circling back to stigmatizing disabilities and possibly doing less to help and support instead of more, but I digress.
I plan to re-read Spellbound via audio, which the author narrates, and I truly can’t wait for that experience. This book has a very high rating and is more than worthy. It’s inspiring and important, and I’m beyond grateful for the connection I felt to my brother while reading it.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: and instagram:
My brother would have loved it because it’s witty, truthful, and I’m certain would have made him feel seen and heard. Thirty or more years ago, there was much less knowledge of learning disabilities, much less known of how to actually help. And here we are again, circling back to stigmatizing disabilities and possibly doing less to help and support instead of more, but I digress.
I plan to re-read Spellbound via audio, which the author narrates, and I truly can’t wait for that experience. This book has a very high rating and is more than worthy. It’s inspiring and important, and I’m beyond grateful for the connection I felt to my brother while reading it.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: and instagram:
April 10, 2025
In the hands of the right director, this is the next Wolf of Wall Street. I never read memoirs, but this may be the one that changes my mind. Phil refurbishes the cliche of “making weakness your greatest strength� by, ironically enough (given his early aversion to education), educating you on his first-hand experience with dyslexia and how it has commandeered much of his life. This book is funny but real, and it really does have everything: the “junkie� small-town haunts of Oshawa, the flashy, cutthroat snapshots of male modeling, intense internal struggles being pushed to the brink all the way to the beauty of the birth of new life.
Can’t recommend the audiobook enough. it includes snapshots of Phil working with an assistant (someone I assume is a reading coach) to help narrate the story himself. Honestly, I can’t imagine the hours and mental labor that went into recording it and debunking every word, facing his life-defining struggle—dyslexia—head-on in order to bring us an authentic telling of his story. And what a story it is.
Truly a labor of love that goes 100% appreciated by this reader. Cannot wait for this to be made into a film, and if it’s not, I’ll riot.
Can’t recommend the audiobook enough. it includes snapshots of Phil working with an assistant (someone I assume is a reading coach) to help narrate the story himself. Honestly, I can’t imagine the hours and mental labor that went into recording it and debunking every word, facing his life-defining struggle—dyslexia—head-on in order to bring us an authentic telling of his story. And what a story it is.
Truly a labor of love that goes 100% appreciated by this reader. Cannot wait for this to be made into a film, and if it’s not, I’ll riot.
March 29, 2025
Having a granddaughter with dyslexia this book appealed to me. I found the book after listening to an interview on WMYC with the author, Phil Hanley. His memoir, told in straightforward biographical stories unfolds some lessons common to dyslexics:
* the pains of not being diagnosed or treated properly for dyslexia (and OCD) and the shame, loneliness and insensitivity
* high EQ , a possible compensating factor
* incredible perseverance to manage one's learning disabilities
* and learning to let go of shame and accept support
In the interview he says two ingredients are needed to combat dyslexia self-esteem and hope, and the book highlights those changes from a dark shaming start in grade school to finding his career first as a model which offered no fulfillment, then recognizing his gifts with words and people and a long pursuit to rise as a successful standup comic, and now incredibility an author. Think about it - letters and words - were his curse and finally with much time and effort, the book - the words and letters - are bringing him more success and helping others.
* the pains of not being diagnosed or treated properly for dyslexia (and OCD) and the shame, loneliness and insensitivity
* high EQ , a possible compensating factor
* incredible perseverance to manage one's learning disabilities
* and learning to let go of shame and accept support
In the interview he says two ingredients are needed to combat dyslexia self-esteem and hope, and the book highlights those changes from a dark shaming start in grade school to finding his career first as a model which offered no fulfillment, then recognizing his gifts with words and people and a long pursuit to rise as a successful standup comic, and now incredibility an author. Think about it - letters and words - were his curse and finally with much time and effort, the book - the words and letters - are bringing him more success and helping others.
March 30, 2025
After reading the Times� review, “A Dyslexic Comedian Walks Into a Recording Booth,� I immediately got the audiobook of Phil Hanley’s Spellbound. As the mom of a dyslexic child, the story of Hanley’s recording journey touched me, and I wanted to frankly show my support of his work in the recording booth by getting the audiobook over the printed version. And now, after finishing it, I feel immense gratitude to Hanley for writing � and literally narrating � his journey. The outtakes scattered throughout the audiobook, introducing each chapter, further humanize and contextualize Hanley’s telling of his childhood and career experiences navigating the world with dyslexia. I am grateful Hanley shared his perspective of those around him, too: family, friends, teachers, colleagues� and how their actions and words affected him. There are important lessons in his story for all of us � dyslexic or not.
April 17, 2025
Spellbound: My Life as a Dyslexic Wordsmith by Phil Hanley is a heartfelt and often humorous memoir that offers a refreshing take on resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. Hanley shares his personal journey with dyslexia, charting his path from an alienated student to a successful stand-up comic with wit, vulnerability, and charm. His reflections are both candid and inspiring, showing how a learning difference once seen as a limitation became a catalyst for self-expression. The book shines brightest when Hanley leans into his comedic voice, though at times the narrative feels more like a series of anecdotes than a fully cohesive story. Still, it’s an engaging, encouraging read for anyone interested in the intersection of creativity and neurodiversity.
January 24, 2025
This was such a fun read. Phil Hanley is such a funny comedian. His memoir discusses how his struggle with dyslexia in school helped shape his life and career. Hanley unfortunately suffered embarrassment due to being in special Ed classes for his dyslexia. Some of these feelings stayed with him as an adult and led him to feel different from everyone else. He also discusses his early years as a model and then his journey to becoming a successful comedian. His story touches base on the very real struggle of dyslexia but he does not paint it in a negative light. This is really a true story of the underdog coming out on top.
January 28, 2025
Excellent. Recommended it to a relative who is beset by it. Very interesting about the other features of dyslexia that others are not aware of, the visual pereceptual issues, the co diagnoses that come about from the stress of having a cognitive disorder. I'm glad when someone in the nonneurotypical community takes the bulls by the horns and represents himself/herself. Why do so many people assumed that nonneurotypicals are totally handicapped when they are as intelligent as Phil is? I'd like to know if Phil experiences the types of prejudice that shadow this community of dear souls. Well written , clear, moves fluidly, thank you Phil.
April 5, 2025
Loved this book. It is both heartbreaking, funny and uplifting at different times. At first, I thought I would prefer to read it rather than listen to it, because his reading style is a little awkward. But that’s part of who Hanley is so I learned to appreciate it.
The last chapter touched my heart. His acknowledging the lifelong support of his mother is beautiful.
I am 70 years old, and I don’t think we even knew about dyslexia when I was young. I think of all the people who went undiagnosed and without help. As Hanley
says, assuming a dyslexic can’t read because he isn’t trying is like saying an alcoholic drinks because he is thirsty. How little we know.
The last chapter touched my heart. His acknowledging the lifelong support of his mother is beautiful.
I am 70 years old, and I don’t think we even knew about dyslexia when I was young. I think of all the people who went undiagnosed and without help. As Hanley
says, assuming a dyslexic can’t read because he isn’t trying is like saying an alcoholic drinks because he is thirsty. How little we know.
January 6, 2025
Thank you #Netgalley for the advanced copy!
Though I was not familiar with this comedian/author it was an interesting read. Knowing he is now a comic and learning more about how he got there was a wild ride. From his struggles in school due to eventually being diagnosed with severe dyslexia, to his career path of modeling, relationships that were both good and bad tied all together with his families support led him to where he is now. He has found his niche and has found ways to cope with his challenges.
Though I was not familiar with this comedian/author it was an interesting read. Knowing he is now a comic and learning more about how he got there was a wild ride. From his struggles in school due to eventually being diagnosed with severe dyslexia, to his career path of modeling, relationships that were both good and bad tied all together with his families support led him to where he is now. He has found his niche and has found ways to cope with his challenges.
April 23, 2025
I didn’t expect to get teary-eyed reading this. I’ve always enjoyed Phil’s stand-up comedy, but I had no idea what he went through to reach this stage in life. His story is a remarkable testament to resilience and triumph. I especially loved learning about the people who supported him along the way, as well as the “villains� who, in their own way, pushed him to believe in himself and pursue his calling. I also gained a deeper understanding of dyslexia and how it impacts the daily lives of those who live with it. Overall, this is a beautifully written and inspiring memoir.
January 27, 2025
thank you to netgalley, henry and holt co and author phil hanley for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review.
before this book, i wasn’t really familiar with phil hanley’s work, but the dyslexia portion of the cover caught my attention. i was excited when my similar disability(dyscalculia(was mentioned). despite not knowing the author before hand, i felt engaged with the book and enjoyed seeing comedy through the eyes of a dyslexic comedian.
before this book, i wasn’t really familiar with phil hanley’s work, but the dyslexia portion of the cover caught my attention. i was excited when my similar disability(dyscalculia(was mentioned). despite not knowing the author before hand, i felt engaged with the book and enjoyed seeing comedy through the eyes of a dyslexic comedian.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2025
I received this book as a Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ giveaway as an advanced reader’s edition. It is a fast interesting read. I did not know who Phil Hanley was before I read this book - the title itself made me interested bc I like to learn about how people work with their struggles. It is well written. Now I’m going to follow Phil on social. I would def recommend this to any parent with a kid with dyslexia. I can’t believe Phil’s school years and hope that modern school years are different.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2025
Thank you for the advanced copy of this book! I have to be honest and say that I had never heard of Phil Hanley before receiving this book. I enjoyed the way he told of his journey into comedy and how he has made dyslexia work for him instead of against him. The book was sad, funny, and motivating. And of course I had to look to see if he’s coming to my town on tour. I recommend it for anyone who likes memoirs, anyone who enjoys comedy, or anyone whose life has been affected by dyslexia.
March 23, 2025
I loved this book. It is an open and honest recounting of Phil’s challenge with dyslexia and his ups and downs with trying to be strong enough to work through it. He is gracious to all of the people who helped him, taking credit for his perseverance and acknowledging that others were a part of it. It is a love letter to his parents. A reminder of how impactful teachers are, and a time capsule for an era where finding your way to nyc felt feasible. Highly recommend.
March 30, 2025
I’m so glad Phil decided to write this book. He is one of my absolute favorite comedians and his crowd work is unrivaled. I loved listening to the audiobook and he killed it reading it out loud. If someone is dyslexic or knows someone who is, this is a great book to read. It’s also a great book if you’re a fan of Phil or just want a profound, personal, but funny and entertaining read. I’m also now a very big fan of Phil’s mom from her support and love he detailed. Highly recommend this one.
April 7, 2025
I picked this up figuring I'd get a funny memior about a stand up comedian who makes me laugh.
What I got was an inspiring story about a guy who used his unique skillset and unwavering courage to find a calling that makes him happy.
He then used the success he's had to write a book about something he's experienced to help others follow their dreams.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys uplifting stories.
What I got was an inspiring story about a guy who used his unique skillset and unwavering courage to find a calling that makes him happy.
He then used the success he's had to write a book about something he's experienced to help others follow their dreams.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys uplifting stories.
February 16, 2025
This book was very easy to read and very informative. Although I was not familiar with the author and picked it due to the dyslexia theme, I enjoyed seeing how he got from special ed and not being able to read to where he is now. I also loved the sentiment behind d the last few sentences.
It did have some profanity, though, and I find that distracting when I read.
It did have some profanity, though, and I find that distracting when I read.
April 3, 2025
I am a Canadian and I was not at all familiar with Phil and his humour. I will soon change that. I found this story to be gripping and un-put-downable. I hope some of his teachers feel the shame to which they are entitled. Congrats to his mom and dad for being his cheerleaders, I am sure that made a difference.
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