The first book to look comprehensively at dyslexia in Irish second-level schools will be in the shops from early next month. Lost For Words, written and researched by Wyn McCormack, describes support services in second-level as "very undeveloped". It also includes a list of the support services at third level and it examines the new NUI policy on the third language requirement.

McCormack, a guidance counsellor and teacher in St David's School, Greystones, Co Wicklow, is also the parent of twin dyslexic boys. The book is based on a combination of personal and professional experience. Her aim is to provide information for families and to highlight the need to provide adequate support services at second-level.

She focuses on how dyslexia affects students; support services at third level; how school administrations and teachers can help; how parents can help; the importance of choosing a second-level school; the options for students at Junior Cert and Leaving Cert; and the best career options.

"Dyslexia is commonly believed to be a difficulty in learning to read but at secondlevel it can affect the student in many different ways," says McCormack. "My book takes a practical approach to the dyslexic student at second level."