Beyond the Science of Reading

Connecting Literacy Instruction to the Science of Learning

By: Natalie Wexler

Narrated by: Kim Handysides

In this provocative and timely book, education writer Natalie Wexler argues that the best way to end the “reading wars” is to recognize that learning to read is inextricably linked to learning in general.

The science of reading movement has done much to improve instruction in foundational skills. But that hard-won progress may be reversed unless we also help children acquire the knowledge and vocabulary they need to understand complex text.

At the same time, the science of learning movement has introduced many educators to evidence-based teaching principles that can be effective for all students. In Beyond the Science of Reading, Wexler addresses a missing piece of the conversation: the ways in which typical reading comprehension and writing instruction conflict with those principles.

Wexler also offers practical solutions for bringing science-informed literacy instruction to scale and reveals why

• Teaching phonics isn’t enough to create proficient readers.
• Building knowledge is the key to unlocking reading comprehension.
• Writing instruction holds untapped potential to boost literacy and learning.
• Instruction grounded in cognitive science can narrow achievement gaps.
• Current curriculum evaluation methods may be steering schools wrong.

Beyond the Science of Reading charts a bold path forward with a new way to equip all children to read with fluency, understanding, and joy. This is an essential resource for educators, policymakers, parents, and anyone who cares about the future of literacy and equity in the United States.

This audiobook is expertly read by Kim Handysides, with audio engineering by Matthew Kulewicz, MPSE. Produced and published by Echo Point Books & Media, an independent bookseller in Brattleboro, Vermont.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2025 Natalie Wexler (P)2025 Echo Point Books & Media, LLC

Must have information!

This book is a MUST read for educators and educational leaders. We CANNOT keep doing more of the same.

Current science references on the topic.

Great review of current research on the topic of what’s best for the students in our care.

So important for teachers!

I have read all of Natalie Wexler‘s books, and everything she says is so smart and well researched. Every time I listen, I pull something out that I can use in my classroom that day!

There is a weird ration break in unit five around minute 30 – the narrator breaks off in the middle of a sentence and begins a new paragraph. I have no idea how much I am missing?