Spring 2026

Professor Thomas Cat's Guide to Understanding the Human Brain

The Dyslexia Files

  • Interest Level: Grade 4 - Grade 8
  • Reading Level: Grade 5

A Fun and Empowering Graphic Novel That Helps Kids Understand Dyslexia Through Humor, Science, and Real-Life Experience

Professor Thomas Cat thinks he knows everything about the human brain and has a full presentation ready to teach other cats how it works. When he introduces the topic of dyslexia, Ava steps in with her own lived experience. With help from her dolphin sidekick, she explains what dyslexia feels like, how her brain processes words, and the strategies that help her succeed. Their mix of science, humor, and visual storytelling helps kids understand why reading can be challenging and how different parts of the brain work together.

As Ava and Professor Cat compare notes, readers learn that dyslexia comes with strengths, creativity, and resilience. This graphic novel gives kids practical tools, boosts confidence, and helps them feel understood. It also offers families, caregivers, teachers, and reading specialists clear language to talk about learning differences, emotional support, and problem solving. Engaging art and friendly explanations help kids feel empowered and show that understanding how their brain works is the first step toward thriving.

Key Features

  • Accessible Dyslexia Education: Breaks down how the brain processes reading in a simple and supportive way for kids ages 9 to 14.
  • Relatable and Encouraging: Combines Ava’s real experience with Professor Cat’s scientific knowledge to explain challenges and highlight strengths.
  • Graphic Novel Format: Uses expressive panels, engaging scenarios, and visual humor to make complex topics easy to understand.
  • Builds Confidence and Practical Skills: Offers strategies, affirmations, and helpful insights for kids who think and learn differently.
  • Ideal for Home and School: Supports families, teachers, reading specialists, and counselors working with kids who have dyslexia.
  • Trusted Publisher: From Magination Press, the children’s imprint of the American Psychological Association, experts in child development and emotional well-being.
Format Your Price Add
978-1-4338-4878-0
On pre-order until 03/03/2026
$18.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on library bound hardcovers and all eBook and eBook with Audio editions when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Grade 4 - Grade 8
Reading Level Grade 5
Genre Graphic Novels, Social Studies
Category Diverse Books: Mental Health & Neurodiversity, Diversity, SEL: A Self-Awareness, SEL: B Self-Management, SEL: C Social Awareness, SEL: D Relationship Skills, SEL: E Responsible Decision-Making, Social Emotional Learning
Copyright 2026
Publisher Magination Press, American Psychological Association
Imprint Magination Press — American Psychological Association
Language English
Number of Pages 144
Publication Date 2026-03-03
Text Type Informational Fiction
BISACS JUV008000, JUV077000, JUV029000
Dewey 741.5
Dimensions 6 x 9
Guided Reading Level TBD
Features Author/Illustrator biography, Bibliography/further reading, Dyslexia-friendly typeface, and Original artwork

Author: Rachael Allen

Rachael Allen, PhD, is a neuroscientist by day and a kid-lit author by night. She is a past winner of the Georgia Young Adult Author of the Year award.

Illustrator: Miguel Díaz Rivas

Miguel Díaz Rivas is a Spanish illustrator with more than eleven years of experience. He is a New York Times best-selling artist.