Published on 02/27/2009

"Handwriting for Heroes" by authors Katie Yancosek and Kristin Gulick is a first-of- its-kind workbook designed for the adult who sustains an injury to the dominant hand that permanently impairs dexterity functions. Learning to write again can be a rewarding accomplishment along the road to recovery. By re-learning handwriting, doors thought closed will open again, hobbies can once more be enjoyed, and work can be completed efficiently. Adults will feel their self-esteem return and they will experience pride in having overcome adversity. The instruction method of "Handwriting for Heroes" is based on motor learning principles and the dynamic process of skill acquisition. A daily practice schedule will take the reader through six full weeks of lessons and activities. After six weeks, the person will be proficient and can expect, by independently engaging in other handwriting tasks, to experience continued improvement over a longer timeframe. Whether it's signing documents or making a grocery- list, "Handwriting for Heroes" helps adults retain their dignity and return confidently to their lives.

Handwriting for Heroes: Learn to Write with Your Non-Dominant Hand in Six Weeks by Kathleen E. Yanco

Handwriting for Heroes: Learn to Write with Your Non-Dominant Hand in Six Weeks

Kathleen E. Yancosek & Kristin Gulick
Loving Healing Press (2009)
ISBN 9781932690699
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (12/08)

The authors have written a very exceptional workbook to help those individuals with dominant-hand problems regain their writing skills. Both authors state that this gives adults the opportunity to make positive changes in their life by utilizing well-designed, adult material and not children’s coloring books.

Each chapter is filled with repetitive exercises that will increase one’s fine-motor control and wrist stabilization. There are six chapters as well as a Certificate of Completion. In each chapter there are therapist tips, which include exercises, information about posture, utilizing scissors and the necessity of having good lighting. The authors have provided homework assignments that are easily done in the convenience of one’s home while watching TV, reading or visiting.

I believe as the authors do, it is important that individuals utilizing this workbook experience positive outcomes. Each chapter is built off the previous one. If a person doesn’t understand something, or needs additional help, it is suggested that they go to the website and speak to a therapist. I found the exercises and lessons interesting, easy to understand and use. There are many people who cannot afford therapy for extended periods of time or are embarrassed about the limited use of their dominant hand. This excellent workbook, “Handwriting for Heroes, by Yancosek and Gulick, is for them.