Spellbound

My Life as a Dyslexic Wordsmith

By: Phil Hanley

Narrated by: Phil Hanley

“Hanley’s dyslexia makes this audio format especially significant, as it represents an accessible way for readers with learning disabilities, just like him, to comprehend and enjoy his story.”—Booklist

This program is read by the author, comedian and severe dyslexic Phil Hanley, who reveals his unlikely path to success in a story that is equal parts hilarious and heartbreaking.

When Phil Hanley was in first grade, he realized something that would forever set him apart from his peers: he couldn’t read. His teachers were ill-equipped to assist him, and he slipped through the school’s cracks, year by year falling further and further behind his friends. Finally, he was diagnosed with dyslexia, a learning disability that would shape the rest of his life.

Unable to pursue college or a traditional job, Phil was thrust into a life defined by unconventional twists, including a stint as a runway model in Europe. Eventually, he found himself on a stage with a microphone, a spotlight, and five minutes of jokes. Unlike so many previous pursuits, stand-up felt right to Phil, and he soon discovered that the more he worked at it, the more he got out of it—a realization that, he compellingly argues, saved his life. Spellbound is a story of humor and also of struggle and heartbreak, of constantly living in a world that sees things differently than you do, and of triumph over adversity.

Hanley tells us that dyslexia can be a huge challenge, but it doesn’t spell certain condemnation (and neither can he). Just the opposite: dyslexia has been more than a blessing in his life—it’s been his North Star.

A Macmillan Audio production from Henry Holt & Company.

Critic reviews

<p><b>A <i>Lit Hub</i> Most Anticipated Book of 2025</b><br><br>“Phil Hanley is the hilarious and authentic voice we all need right now.”<br><b>—Amy Schumer, #1 <i>New York Times</i> bestselling author of <i>The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo</i></b><br><br>“Brilliant, funny, poignant, raw, honest, and full of heart, Phil Hanley’s <i>Spellbound </i>is the voice of a movement. He shares wisdom about what it's like to be dyslexic, but most importantly, he sets the record straight on what is right with the dyslexic mind and how we can all find our path and voice in the world.”<br> <b>—David Flink, Founder of Eye to Eye and CNN Hero</b><br><br> "From the backroads of Canada to the runways of Milan, Phil has a great story. I’m sure there are unruly Canadians and sarcastic Deadheads, but he’s got to be the only one that’s both."<br><b>—Colin Quinn, comedian</b><br><br>"<i>Spellbound </i>is an achievement of authentic and talented storytelling. Hanley delivers validating, relatable and humorous anecdotes for the millions of people who have dyslexia and sends messages of resilience, acceptance and ultimately, celebration. I personally appreciate this book, not only as a therapist, but also as a parent who is always looking for positive and successful stories to share with my dyslexic son." <br><b>—Roberto Olivardia, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist and Lecturer, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School</b><br><br>“Phil Hanley’s <i>Spellbound </i>tackles dyslexia in a style full of both humor and hope. Read this book!”<br><b>—Aziz Ansari, #1 <i>New York Times</i> bestselling author of <i>Modern Romance</i></b><br><br>"Candid, heartwarming... Through witty anecdotes and vulnerable confessions, the author's stories demonstrate how dyslexia extends beyond difficulties with spelling and reading to challenges with mental health... Carried by Hanley's sincere voice, the memoir remains lighthearted despite intense frustration and heartbreak."<br><b>—<i>Booklist</i></b><br><br>"[A] humorous and affecting debut memoir... This inspires."<br><b>—<i>Publishers Weekly</i></b></p>

Came for the humor, stayed for the inspiration

I have watched and re-watched Phil’s clips on YouTube because I love his quick wit. That humor was present throughout this book, but the education about dyslexia, and what he has done to succeed in spite of it, took this book up another notch.

The GOAT of crowd work and so inspiring for those with the D

I’m an undiagnosed dyslexic and both of my daughters are dyslexic. Phil you are an amazing inspiration for all of us and so happy you started posting shorts on YouTube so I could find you. I watch and rewatch you specials and hope to catch you live sometime in the future.

good listen

great comedian. loved hearing his story and what he went through growing up and how he helps others

Earth, wind, and calico

His story and his honesty make you like him even more. His story reminds us that we’re all looking for our missing pieces.

Don’t skip this book

I laughed and cried while listening to this book. A great memoir. Can’t wait to hear more.