The ABC’s and All Their Tricks
Decoding English: Tricks Every Teacher Should Know
The ABCs and All Their Tricks is an indispensable reference for anyone who teaches or studies English spelling. Margaret Bishop masterfully unpacks the often-confusing rules and patterns of English orthography, providing clear explanations, historical background, and practical guidance. The book systematically explores each letter of the alphabet, outlining the sounds it can represent, their frequency, and examples of words that illustrate each pattern.
What sets this book apart is its depth and accessibility. Bishop manages to make linguistic detail approachable, helping teachers understand why certain spelling patterns exist and how to explain them to students. It’s especially valuable for educators working with struggling readers, dyslexic learners, or anyone using structured literacy or Orton-Gillingham–based approaches.
While the text is more of a reference than a light read, its organization and thoroughness make it a resource worth returning to again and again. For anyone committed to teaching reading and spelling with understanding rather than memorization, The ABCs and All Their Tricks is an essential addition to the professional bookshelf.