Dyslexia books & dyslexia books for kids

Wondering which are the best dyslexia books and dyslexia books for kids? These titles may help your reluctant reader overcome their difficulties.

Dyslexia is a type of learning disorder characterized by reading difficulties. It can negatively impact a person's quality of life, and is particularly challenging for young children.

Symptoms may vary, but dyslexic children typically struggle with mastering basic reading skills. To the dyslexic brain, words are not always decodable, which is why children with dyslexia prefer picture books to chapter books.

Fortunately, there are ways parents and educators can help youngsters overcome learning disabilities. Early intervention, special education, and books that address learning differences are practical tools for ensuring children overcome challenges in their formative years.

We'll review five books that could help reluctant readers better understand their disorder.

Dyslexia books for children

Dyslexic kids are usually struggling readers. They're intelligent and creative, but their learning differences make it difficult to enjoy reading and schoolwork. Consequently, they rarely pick up children's books and avoid practicing their reading skills.

While many books in general education don't cater to children with learning disabilities, the following entries are engaging and inspirational stories. Not only will they entertain dyslexic children, but they'll also let them know they're not alone and can thrive despite their diagnosis.

My Name is Brain Brian - Jeanne Betancourt

This children's book is based on the true story of Betancourt's early years. The main character is Brian, a dyslexic sixth grader trying to hide his learning differences from his friends. He dreads the first day of school because his classmates tease him for his problems with schoolwork. But everything changes in sixth grade, when a teacher suspects Brian may have dyslexia and recommends an assessment.

As Brian accepts that his brain works differently, he also gains access to assistive technology like a laptop and a tape recorder.

This book is an excellent choice for kids who may feel embarrassed about their disability. If Brian can improve his performance in school, so can any child if they receive adequate support.

Hank Zipzer: A Tale of Two Tails - Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver

This title is part of the best-selling book series about Hank Zipzer, an adventurous twelve-year-old who doesn't let dyslexia hold him back.

Funny and determined, he enters his dog in a school contest for a new mascot. Despite his efforts, he may have to give up on the competition due to his problems at school. Fortunately, his friends rally around him, showing him the value of teamwork.

This book is an inspirational tale for kids who feel isolated because of their learning disabilities. Although they may feel alone, their allies are closer than they think.

Overcoming Dyslexia - Sally Shaywitz

This great book is a science-based and practical resource for parents of children with learning difficulties.

Dr. Shaywitz has compiled insights from the latest research on dyslexia and reading, providing parents with information on how to support their children.

The book includes chapters about:

• The problems dyslexic individuals of different ages face
• How technological advances help adults and young learners overcome reading difficulties
• The connection between dyslexia and other conditions like ADHD and anxiety
• Overcoming dyslexia and leading a fulfilling life
• Phonics exercises that bolster children's reading skills

Essentially, it's a guidebook that encourages parents to find learning styles that meet their child's specific needs. This could mean using different apps and workbooks to address reading problems.

The Alphabet War: A Story of Dyslexia - Diane Burton Robb

This beautifully illustrated graphic novel follows Adam, a lively and adventurous child starting kindergarten. As he tries to learn letters, his personality changes. Frustrated that he can't differentiate between "b" and "d," he becomes withdrawn and quiet. Spelling was even more challenging. When teachers notice his reading problems in the third grade, an intervention comes to his aid.

With professional help, Adam stops dreading going to school and learns there are areas where he excels.

Adam's journey is familiar to children of all reading levels struggling with dyslexia. He goes from a struggling reader to a young boy reading without assistance. With sufficient support, other dyslexic children can do the same.

Close to Famous - Joan Bauer

Twelve-year-old Foster moves to a rural town and dreams of hosting a cooking show. Reading isn't her strong suit, but she expresses her creativity by making delicious food.

As Foster settles into her new home in a small town, she makes friends who help her to learn to read. Although she's embarrassed to admit she's passed the sixth grade without knowing how to read correctly, Foster is brave and faces the problem head-on.

Bauer highlights how community support is essential in boosting the self-esteem of dyslexic children. Empowered children have a better self-image, which allows them to confidently tackle their learning difficulties.

Try Speechify – turn all of your books into audiobooks

Assistive technology has come a long way. Dyslexic children now have access to apps like Speechify that make reading more enjoyable.

This app supports multi-sensory learning, which benefits children with learning difficulties like dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD  As the program reads a Word document, web page, or PDF file out loud, it highlights the text to help the user follow along. Thus, it improves phonemic awareness and word recognition, boosting overall reading skills.

Most importantly, it's the go-to choice for struggling readers because it can turn any book, including the titles above, into an audiobook. Required reading in school doesn't always have dedicated audiobooks, so Speechify is a handy and easy-to-use solution.

Try it for free today on your computer or mobile device and see how it could benefit your child.

FAQ

What is a dyslexic friendly book?

Dyslexic-friendly friendly books use a larger font to help readers comprehend the material and alleviate their difficulties. 

How can I help my dyslexic child with dyslexia?

Create an encouraging environment and consult a professional about the latest learning methods for children with reading difficulties. 

How can I improve my child's dyslexia reading skills?

Look into assistive technology. Apps like Speechify combine reading and listening, which is an excellent way to make reading stress-free. 

What should I do if I think my child has dyslexia?

Talk to their teacher and school counselor to determine the next steps. They may suggest an assessment because early intervention is vital for helping dyslexic children. 

What are the symptoms of dyslexia?

The most common symptoms of dyslexia in young children are problems with spelling, reading, and speaking.