The book approaches the understanding of dyslexia through the perspective of the dyslexic adult and through examining the dyslexic "cognitive style" and its impact on how this affects dyslexic adults in their personal, academic and work lives.

The Dyslexic Adult explores the importance of diagnosis and discusses many of the contentious issues surrounding the assessment of dyslexic adults. It suggests strategies and creative solutions for dyslexic difficulties as well as ways of exploiting dyslexic strengths.

Finally, it takes a look into the future, suggesting that changes in the 21st century may alter perceptions of dyslexia and the opportunities for roles which dyslexic adults play in society, and encourages the non-dyslexic world to value the contributions which dyslexic adults can make.