Generally speaking, it’s a way of thinking differently. Some markers of dyslexia include having to read something multiple times before it makes sense, regularly losing place while reading, finding traditional book pages too cluttered, and spelling issues due to omitting or transposing words. Additionally, dyslexic readers can struggle with breaking down words to pronounce. It isn’t something to cure, either, but many kids with dyslexia can learn coping strategies that help them read. If you’d like to learn more about dyslexia and ways of teaching reading proficiency to varying audiences, there’s more about that in this post by Mikkaka Overstreet, a literacy professor.
In my own efforts to educate myself more, I’ve compiled this list of books written for kids with dyslexia. The books are formatted specifically to encourage easier processing for kids with dyslexia. For instance, many use large, handwriting-resembling fonts, wider spacing, and images with strong black and white ink contrast. Graphic designer Christian Boer, who is dyslexic, created a font called Dyslexie. He developed it specifically to support reluctant and dyslexic readers — making letters like ‘b’ and ‘d’ more bottom-heavy, giving larger than usual openings in letters like ‘a’ and ‘e’, and extending the ascenders and descenders. Another way of helping readers with dyslexia is that many of these books have short chapters, allowing readers to stop and take breaks without breaking the tempo of the story.
I hope that this list will give you ideas for ways to support the learning process of any neurodivergent kiddos that you know.
Picture Books for Kids With Dyslexia
Chapter Books for Kids With Dyslexia
Graphic Novels for Kids With Dyslexia
Nonfiction for Kids With Dyslexia
These dyslexia-friendly books for kids are so crucial—not only do they portray different ways of thinking and processing, but many also break down barriers to reading. And, truly, getting kids excited about books is always the first step to building a love of reading. For more great children’s book recommendations, make sure to check out our children’s lit page.
