A Storybook for Children with Handwriting Difficulties, In
cluding those with Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, Dyspraxia & ADHD.
Alli Can’t Write is a heartfelt, two-part book combining a charming illustrated story for children with a powerful resource section for adults.
Created by acclaimed neurodiversity advocate Maria Chivers, this book speaks directly to children struggling with handwriting, especially those with dysgraphia, dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADHD, and similar learning differences.
In the children’s section, we meet Alli-Gator, a bright and imaginative young alligator who loves school but becomes withdrawn when he’s told his writing is “sloppy” and unreadable. Despite his best efforts, Alli can’t seem to get his thoughts on paper.
With the help of his supportive Mummy and Daddy-Gator, a kind school psychologist named Dr. Dolphin, and a thoughtful teacher, Alli begins to understand that his difficulties have a name, dysgraphia, and that he’s far from alone. Through games, special strategies, and lots of encouragement, Alli learns to work with his challenges and find joy in expressing himself again.
The story is rich with humour, empathy, and unforgettable characters, including Skunky, Hoppy and Jumpy the opossums, and the ever-patient Miss Snake. Set in the vibrant Florida Everglades and featuring endangered animals, the story not only entertains but also raises awareness of ecological issues.
The second part of the book serves as a comprehensive guide for adults, parents, teachers, and professionals, providing expert insights into identifying and supporting children with handwriting difficulties. Topics include:
Drawing on over 35 years of experience, Maria Chivers combines real-world wisdom with research-backed advice to help adults create a supportive environment for struggling writers.
Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child, a teacher looking for practical tools, or a young reader who’s ever felt left behind, ‘Alli Can’t Write’ is an uplifting and empowering book that shows. With the proper support, every child can find their voice.
Perfect for children aged 6–10, and essential reading for those working to support neurodiverse learners.
Alli Can’t Write… Or Can He? is the first book in the ‘Tales from the Everglades series.’
Amazon.co.uk
Kindle Edition £7.99
Paperback £11.99
Hardcover £14.99
Or
Amazon.com
Take a look at the excellent reviews below.
Reviews From the United Kingdom
Dr Helen Ross
5.0 out of 5 stars A fantastic resource
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 11 December 2019
The story is full of the kind of characters that you would see in many classrooms! The way that the story introduces the difficulties experienced by Alli is sensitive and presented clearly so that a child would be able to identify themselves as Alli. The experiences described are so common amongst young people with dyslexia or other specific learning difficulties.
The interaction between Mummy-Gator and the schoolteachers is supportive and shows young people that there are discussions which take place that they may not necessarily be aware of. The book introduces the concept of specialist testing carefully and shows young people that it is not something to fear.
There is a list of recommendations for the family and Alli’s teachers, to help Alli improve his writing which are useful for everyone involved in supporting young people at school. There are also topics such as environmental damaged introduced in the book, so that different foci can be addressed when going through the book with young people multiple times.
The book is a useful resource to share with professionals and young people. The practical suggestions given to support Alli are useful for supporting young people with difficulties, their teachers and families. It is low cost and is thus accessible to multiple audiences. I would heartily recommend reading it.
Steve Chinn
5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful book on dysgraphia
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 6 June 2019
‘Alli can’t Write’ It is a lovely book for children who have dysgraphia! I like the way the book integrates an Everglades ecosystem message into its messages on dysgraphia. I also like the blend of the story and the information. The author communicates so successfully. It is a very novel, beautifully illustrated book which purveys information in a way that will help so many children. Well done!!
Jacky Drake
5.0 out of 5 stars Dysgraphia – A great useful book for both the parent and child
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 March 2019
This book is a little gem, a really great useful book both for the parent and child.
The author speaks exactly how a child would, great communicator. We loved Alli, and really liked it when the skunk made rude smells (typical child). He also liked looking for the snails.
I have no hesitating recommending this book to anyone, with problems writing.
Nice ideas in section two for parents and teachers, which give good information to help to strengthen the muscles in the hand fun. And some pencil grips, that don’t look like special pieces. And lots of other good ideas. Haven’t been able to try any of the suggestions out yet though.
Not only is the book fun but it also has very useful information to help me understand what disgraphia is. Even if your child doesn’t have disgrafia, its still a lovely little story.
Lin
5.0 out of 5 stars Love it
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 8 May 2019
I enjoyed this book and I’m sure children of all ages will too, and all the different animals in it children will just love
Laura
5.0 out of 5 stars It give specific info in back of book
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 6 May 2019
A lovely story and very informative my 7 yr old son was able to see the similarities in himself being dyslexic and dysgraphic
Alan Mower
5.0 out of 5 stars Really lovely book
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 21 June 2019
Our boys age 7 and 3 both loved this story, it’s a very informative story and fun to read. It gives lots of good idea for children with disgraphia.
Caroline
5.0 out of 5 stars A positive message of encouragement and acceptance
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 18 April 2019
We enjoyed the witty empathetic storyline and delighted in following the courageous journey of Alli and his family from their frustrations and difficulties to finding solutions. The positive message of encouragement and acceptance runs through the story, we loved the inspiring message of not giving up! This is a truly unique book with engaging lively graphics, beautifully illustrated in a child friendly style. Interspersed with fascinating facts and the useful information contribute to the added value of this book. A wonderful story for children and a must have for parents in their understanding of children’s handwriting development.
Sarah Barton
5.0 out of 5 stars This is a positive book for children as well as adults
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 4 May 2019
This is a good story and the children loved the different animals. They also felt sorry for Alli and could understand how he felt, and were glad he got the help he needed. This book is good for children and also there is a lot of helpful information for parents to. I will also be recommending this to my SENCO as it would be a great one for them to have to read with children and also lend to parents.
Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Hand writing needs to be taught.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 7 May 2019
Dysgraphia is a SpLD largely overlooked in the UK, this book should raise its profile among parents and teachers whilst helping children to accept themselves and get the support they need. Alli and his endangered friends will appeal to children and the information given about them will provide a useful vehicle to encourage them to take heart about their own situation.
Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Useful and practical book
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 7 May 2019
This is a lovely and really practical book. I read it to my grandson and he really enjoyed it and he struggles with handwriting at times. I also found it useful for guidance for both schools and parents.
Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Dedicated to raising awareness for people with learning difficulties.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 16 March 2019
This book has a lovely story line, pictures are very well illustrated and help’s tell the story. It’s a lovely book to read to children to help them understand that there are other children with similar learning difficulties. There is also an adult section of the book for parents and teachers with useful information and links. I have also purchased other books from this author and have always found them very useful and educational.
Lindsay Gordon
5.0 out of 5 stars Unusual, interesting and engaging
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 November 2020
This little book written by Maria Chivers is both delightful and helpful. It is written in an engaging manner for those who have problems committing their well-formed ideas onto paper due to handwriting difficulties and / or dysgraphia. Couching the issues amongst exotic animals helps children identify with the characters and their problems in a positive way. The book is also full of explanations and ideas for parents and school staff, written in an accessible manner. Well worth reading.
Mrs F Woodfield
5.0 out of 5 stars Little gem
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 16 November 2019
Lovely little book that really helps both child and adult to grasp what is meant by Dyslexia. The book also covers little extras about nature and animals. I will be recommending this book to friends and schools. Thanks
Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic read
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 3 December 2019
A fantastic book that i could easily relate to. Definitely one to read to children so that they can understand other children difficulties.
Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic book for all the family!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 27 June 2019
what a great book, written so well enjoyed by all our family, our kids loved it!! Great for raisinf awareness
it also has useful information to help understand what disgraphia is.
Christine
5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic book!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 23 December 2019
A fantastic book which both my girls really enjoyed. The story was engaging and the illustrations were lovely.
Jane Mcgillivray
5.0 out of 5 stars Not just a story, an amazing resource for all ages
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 15 November 2020
Fabulous way to explain what having handwriting difficulties feels like to other children, young people, teachers and teaching assistants. Loved the resources at the back, thank you.
Reviews From Other Countries
Sammi Jo Cook
5.0 out of 5 stars A highly recommend
Reviewed in the United States on 10 March 2020Verified Purchase
just finding out my son is dislexic and has disgraphia, a wonderful written book to understand what a child goes through, a must read if you? Your child’s needs!
You can learn more about Alli and his friends on his Facebook Page.
A Storybook for Children with Dysgraphia and a Guide for Adults Who Want to Help.
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