Welcome to another enlightening episode of 3Spoonies, where hosts Karen, Jo, and Claire dive into the complexities of living and working with dyslexia. This week, in Episode 38, we are joined by Jacqui Kibby, founder of Scorpius Books, to explore the impact of dyslexia in the business world and the unique challenges and opportunities it presents. Find out more about Jacqui here.
Understanding Dyslexia
Jacqui begins by demystifying dyslexia, explaining that it is not a learning disability but a difference in processing information. Dyslexia manifests in various ways, from seeing words move on a page to difficulty distinguishing between letters. Importantly, it doesn’t hinder one’s ability to succeed, as evidenced by many individuals with dyslexia who have achieved advanced degrees and professional success.
Scorpius Books: Pioneering Dyslexic-Friendly Fiction
Scorpius Books is breaking new ground as the UK’s first publisher of dyslexic-friendly fiction for adults. Jacqui shares her journey of establishing the publishing house in 2020 during the pandemic, driven by the lack of accessible reading material for dyslexic adults. The aim is to create books with larger, more spaced-out fonts and left-justified text to cater to different reading needs without altering the content itself.
Dyslexia and Business Management
The discussion also covers how dyslexia affects business owners. Jacqui highlights that individuals with dyslexia often develop unique coping mechanisms, allowing them to excel in their fields. Some entrepreneurs build businesses around their strengths, while others find innovative ways to manage administrative tasks. The key takeaway is that dyslexia can be a strength rather than a hindrance when leveraged correctly.
Design Considerations for Accessibility
For those creating materials like posters or flyers, Jacqui advises keeping design simple and using dyslexic-friendly fonts. It’s crucial to consider color contrast and spacing to ensure readability for everyone, not just those with dyslexia.
Expanding Accessibility in Publishing
Jacqui emphasises the importance of making dyslexic-friendly books more accessible in mainstream bookstores. Despite facing challenges in breaking into traditional retail spaces, she remains optimistic about increasing awareness and availability. The upcoming release of “The Rats” by James Herbert in a dyslexic-friendly format is a significant milestone for Scorpius Books, promising to open more doors for inclusive publishing. Find out more about Jacqui and Scorpius Books here.
Conclusion
This episode of 3Spoonies sheds light on the often-overlooked topic of dyslexia in business. Through insightful discussions, it becomes clear that while dyslexia presents unique challenges, it also offers opportunities for creativity and innovation. Jacqui Kibby’s work with Scorpius Books is a testament to the positive impact of embracing neurodiversity, both in literature and business.
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