Books that Encourage Reluctant Readers
The two main categories most likely to encourage reluctant readers are:
Books with characters children with learning differences can identify with,
Books authors/publishers have produced to be accessible.
Books with characters children can identify with
Having a character young readers can identify with can make a book far more appealing.
Here are some helpful lists:
https://learningally.org/Blog/10-books-featuring-characters-with-dyslexia-or-a-learning-difference
https://www.understood.org/en/articles/7-books-featuring-characters-with-dyslexia-or-adhd
Most of these books are US based. If you are after a book based in the UK I can recommend this one, written by a neighbour of mine.
Read between the Lies
An honest, open family drama shining a light on dyslexia ― Sunday Express
An engaging book for young readers... with lies, secrets, and dyslexia at the heart of the story ― Armadillo Magazine
'A funny, raw and heartfelt teen story that sensitively explores the impact of dyslexia' -- Chris Soul, reviewer and teacher
Dyslexia Friendly Books
Some publishers make dyslexia-friendly books available.
These books may have a style of writing that is more accessible to dyslexics or use a layout that is clearer or aided by pictures allowing young people to connect with the stories without being deterred by intimidating blocks of text.
The Evening Standard Selection
The Evening Standard has collated eight books that are '“guaranteed to enthral” reluctant readers.
I think don’t think any book would “enthral” my son but I have to admit their list looks good
.
Dyslexia-friendly Harry Potter
In an effort to make the magic of the wizarding world accessible to everyone, Bloomsbury Publishing just debuted a collection of dyslexia-friendly "Harry Potter" books.
Barrington Stokes
Barrington Stokes publishes super-readable, accessible books that help every child experience the joy of reading.
Hank Zipzer
A series of children's books by actor Henry Winkler. Hank Zipzer was made into a BBC TV series. The books are printed in Dyslexie font designed to assist dyslexics with reading.
Hank Zipzer is also a BBC children’s TV series that I feature in my webpages on ideas to promote self-esteem. It is an excellent programme to watch with children, as it can stimulate open, helpful dialogue.
Jamie Oliver’s book Billy and the Giant Adventure
During a live remote session, we watch a recording of Jamie Oliver talking about his struggles at school and the fact he is the second most published UK author, despite being wickedly dyslexic.
His children’s Audiobook is designed to be enjoyable for those who struggle with reading, and the back story is inspiring.
Jamie introduces his book here.->
One of many of James’s interviews about his dyslexia and his children's book can be found here.