Whether your child has been diagnosed as dyslexic or you just have a hunch that your child is struggling with dyslexia, you may find yourself searching for dyslexia books. But to understand what makes a book “dyslexia-friendly,” we must first understand what dyslexia is. Dyslexia is a neurological condition that can impede a person’s ability to read, write, and spell. There is no cure for dyslexia, but with specific strategies and support, people with dyslexia can improve their reading level and live a normal life. 

One way we can help is to use books specially designed to make life easier for dyslexic readers.

There are six key features that make a book “dyslexia-friendly.” Read on to explore them all! 

Font Size

Pages filled with small text can overwhelm dyslexic readers. Books that use larger fonts mean that there are fewer words per page. This way, readers with dyslexia can recognize each word more clearly and can more easily follow along with the text. 

Font Type

Font type is another important factor in making a book dyslexia-friendly. Dyslexic readers often have difficulty distinguishing between certain letters, such as b and d. Dyslexia books typically use fonts that are easier to read. For example, some books use fonts with thicker lines and more space between letters, which makes it easier for dyslexic readers to distinguish between the letters. 

Specialized fonts like OpenDyslexic and Dyslexie are designed based on these principles. You may find that these fonts make a significant difference in your child’s ability to read—or none at all. Many dyslexic readers report improvements when using these fonts, but as with anything, results depend on the individual. 

Color

People with dyslexia often have difficulty reading text on a white background, so dyslexia books often use a colored background instead. For example, some publishers use a yellow or cream-colored paper, which can make it easier for people with dyslexia to read the text without straining their eyes. Color can also be used to organize concepts, making them easier to identify. 

Layout

Dyslexic readers often have difficulty following text from one line to the next. Dyslexia books typically have a clearer layout than regular books. They may use a larger line spacing and wider margins, which can help dyslexic readers follow the text more easily, or they may separate text into multiple columns. Publishers who publish books for dyslexic readers put much more thought and planning into organizing ideas on a page. Look for books that have well-spaced pages and paragraphs at first glance.

Illustrations

One thing we know about dyslexic readers is that they often have difficulty understanding abstract concepts. Dyslexia books typically include illustrations to help explain the material better. For example, some books include diagrams or charts that can help dyslexic readers conceptualize the material. They may also include pictures or other images that can help dyslexic readers visualize the material. Any visual representation of the words can help. Look for books with lots of visual aides.

Audio Support

Dyslexic readers often have trouble reading text, so dyslexia books typically include audio support to help these readers understand the material better. Look for books that include audio recordings of the text as an option. This can help dyslexic readers follow along with the material more easily.

Where can I find dyslexia books?

There are many features that make dyslexia books “dyslexia-friendly,” and the more of these aides you find in a book, the more likely it is to be suitable for your dyslexic reader.

At Royal Fireworks Press, all of our books are made with neuro-diverse readers in mind.

We even have special versions of many titles that go the extra mile in providing dyslexia accommodations. These books use OpenDyslexic font, illustrations, and QR codes on each page that link to a read-aloud audio clip, as well as wide margins, large font size, and well-organized pages.

All children deserve to have access to great books that they are able to read. You can shop all of our dyslexia-friendly titles here!