Quinn Bradlee, a fascinating young man and worthy of interest in and of himself, interviewed filmmaker and director Steven Spielberg about learning disabilities, dyslexia, teasing, and the ways to cope.
It turns out that Mr. Speilberg was diagnosed with his lifelong dyslexia about five years ago. In spite of being one of Hollywood’s most well-respected and universally acclaimed filmmakers, he didn’t learn to read until two years after most of his classmates. He struggled with all of the expected things within school, notably reading and spelling, and in this interview, is very candid about the teasing that came with the territory of not fitting in.
For me, it’s a great, relaxed and candid interview done by this young man Quinn, who’s had his own struggles with dyslexia and other medical conditions.
Well-worth listening to and watching the entire 10 minute plus video.
Some comments by Steven Spielberg to listen for:
“I never felt like a victim…Movies saved me from shame. It was my great escape.”
“I wish I’d been diagnosed earlier.”
About reading: “It will take me about two hours and forty-five minutes to read something that would take another person an hour and ten minutes. But …I read often…with great comprehension because I take my time.”
Spielberg’s advice to young people with dyslexia or other learning disabilities: “It’s more common than you think. …You’re not alone. There are ways to deal with it…You can dart between the raindrops to get to where you want to go.” (love that one)