The Sword of Darrow 

The Sword of Darrow is a middle grade fantasy novel that was co-authored by Hal Malchow and his son, Alex. They began writing the novel in 2002.  At the time, Alex was eight-years-old and struggled with a serious learning disability.  He could not read at all. The Sword of Darrow tells us that anyone can do great things if he or she has the courage to believe.  The fact that an eight-year-old boy with learning differences helped to write a great novel proves the message of this book and can help our children reach for bigger dreams.

Not only have Hal and Alex faced the challenges of Alex's learning differences, they have made an impressive commitment to the cause of Dyslexia. They have generously agreed to contribute all royalties to IDA, and the publisher is donating half of his profits to other organizations supporting learning disabilities, as well.  Above all, this is a great book that can inspire others and help them read.

Finally, and most importantly, this book is a thrilling adventure that teaches kids great values.  It has been read and reviewed by more than 2000 children ages 7 to 17 all across the country.  In describing this book, these children used words like “masterpiece,”  “classic” and a “work of art.”  More than half of these readers rated the book “completely awesome,” and many said it was the best book that they had ever read.   You can view some of these reviews on the book’s website www.swordofdarrow.com. 

The Sword of Darrow will be released in June 2011.  We at IDA are looking forward to seeing Alex’s dream realized and to helping other struggling readers receive the resources and assistance they need. 

Today, Alex Malchow attends St. John’s College High School in Washington, DC, where he is an honor roll student and the starting center on St. John's varsity football team.

Purchase The Sword of Darrow by clicking here.