Finding books at the right reading level for a child with dyslexia can be a game-changer in their reading journey. Books that are too difficult can lead to frustration, while books that are too easy may not provide the necessary challenge to build skills. So how can you find books that are the perfect fit for your child’s reading level? Here’s a guide to help you select books that will support and encourage your child’s reading development.

1. Understand Your Child’s Reading Level

Dyslexic children often have reading levels that don’t align with their age or grade. To find the right books, you need to understand where they are in their reading development. You can determine their reading level by:

• Asking their tutor for an assessment.
• Using online tools like the San Diego Quick Reading Assessment or other assessments
• Observing their comfort level with different books by having them read aloud

2. Use the Five-Finger Rule

A quick way to gauge if a book is appropriate for your child is the Five-Finger Rule:

• Have your child read a page of the book.
• Every time they struggle with a word, they raise a finger.
• If they reach five fingers before the end of the page, the book may be too difficult.
• If they don’t struggle at all, the book might be too easy.
• One to three tricky words per page often indicate a good fit.

3. Look for High-Interest, Low-Readability (Hi-Lo) Books

Dyslexic children often comprehend at a higher level than they can decode words. Hi-Lo (high-interest, low-readability) books are designed to be engaging while using simpler vocabulary and sentence structures. These books allow kids to enjoy age-appropriate stories without struggling with complex text.

See this post for more information on Hi-Lo Books.

4. Choose Books with Dyslexia-Friendly Features

Some books are designed specifically for dyslexic readers, with features that enhance readability, such as:

• Large, clear fonts (like OpenDyslexic or Dyslexie font).
• Wider spacing between lines and words.
• Shorter chapters and sentences.
• High-contrast backgrounds and off-white pages to reduce visual stress.

5. Use Audiobooks as a Supplement

Audiobooks can help dyslexic children build vocabulary and comprehension skills without the frustration of decoding. Listening to a book while following along with the text can also improve fluency and confidence.

6. Follow Their Interests

A dyslexic child is more likely to persevere through reading challenges if they are genuinely interested in the topic. Look for books, magazines, or blogs about their favorite hobbies, animals, or characters to keep them engaged.

7. Allow Choice and Flexibility

Giving your child the freedom to choose their books—even if they seem too easy—helps build a love of reading. A balance of challenging books and “comfort reads” can encourage progress while maintaining confidence. I used to be a book snob and not want my kids reading silly books like Captain Underpants. I learned to let go of that and let my kids choose books that keep them engaged (and amused).

8. Use Guided Reading Apps and Tools

There are many digital tools designed to help dyslexic readers. Apps like Bookshare, Learning Ally, and Libby offer audiobooks and ebooks with text-to-speech features, making reading more accessible.

Read this post about how to use the Amazon Kindle and Audiobooks to ehance reading experience.

9. Reassess Regularly

As your child builds their reading skills, their book level will change. Regularly reassess their reading ability and gradually introduce more complex books to continue their progress without overwhelming them.

Finding the right books for a dyslexic child takes patience, trial and error, and a deep understanding of their individual needs. By selecting books that are both engaging and accessible, you can help your child develop a love of reading that will last a lifetime. Keep encouraging them, celebrating their progress, and most importantly—making reading an enjoyable experience!

Have you found any great books that work well for your dyslexic child? Share your recommendations in the comments!