Mississippi Rising: How the Last Became First in Literacy Growth

"I learned quite a bit about the forces behind the "Mississippi Miracle." I'm so glad you wrote it. As you say, it is a story that needs to be told. I hope it is widely read and appreciated. Great job." ~ Dr. Louisa Cook Moats

“Thank you so much for putting into words the journey the state of Mississippi has been on. You brilliantly share the story of so many key individuals and also your own. I greatly appreciate your honesty, authenticity, and vulnerability,” another reader wrote.

“This is an inspiring story of people who were willing to change if it meant better outcomes for children, even relearning everything they thought they knew about how reading should be taught. It’s about overcoming resistance to that change, and showing what we as a state can achieve when we put our minds to it and work together,” said Lloyd Gray, Executive Director of Phil Hardin Foundation

 “Thank you so much for writing Mississippi Rising. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading and learning about dyslexia. Your journey in the educator’s world has been interesting. It is truly amazing what a woman on a mission can accomplish. You and Dr. Holifield are so passionate about dyslexia and it shows!” another reviewer wrote.

Bravo, Leta, on your well-told story of Mississippi literacy.  Lloyd wrote an eloquent introduction.  Thanks for your substantial coverage of BRI's work.  I learned a lot about the early dyslexia pieces that I did not know.  Hope it is widely read.  

Kelly Butler, Barksdale Reading Institute

It’s a quick read about how we got to where we are and a state that has made SIGNIFICANT progress!! 

I know when you are in the trenches, the days are long. Come read about how all those days turned into real progress. It’s inspiring. 

Jane Hayes, R.E.A.D. Redefined