10+ Best Dyslexia Friendly Books for 11-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Searching for the perfect read can be a challenge, especially when looking for dyslexia-friendly options. That's why we've compiled a fantastic list of Dyslexia Friendly Books for 11-Year-Olds that cater to young readers who need texts that are easier to decode. Whether you're a parent, educator, or a young bibliophile yourself, keep reading to discover our carefully selected titles that promise to engage and inspire!

Fun Dyslexia Friendly Books for 11-Year-Olds

• Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Illustrator: John Rocco
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is accused of stealing Zeus's lightning bolt. He embarks on a quest across America to find the bolt and prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's fast-paced and filled with exciting adventures that keep readers engaged. The text is dyslexia-friendly, making it easier for children with reading challenges.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and mythology enthusiasts who enjoy dynamic stories with a modern twist.

• The Super Miraculous Journey of Freddie Yates by Jenny Pearson
  • Illustrator: Rob Biddulph
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Comedy
  • Synopsis: Freddie Yates goes on a journey with his best friends to find his biological father. Their adventure is filled with hilarious mishaps and heartfelt moments.
  • Why we recommend this book: The book uses clear, accessible language and humor that makes reading enjoyable and less daunting for dyslexic readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love laughter-filled adventures and tales of friendship.

• Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
  • Genre(s): Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Ally has always had trouble reading, but her new teacher Mr. Daniels sees the bright, creative kid underneath the troublemaker. With his help, she learns not to be defined by her dyslexia.
  • Why we recommend this book: It features a protagonist with learning difficulties, making it relatable and inspiring for readers facing similar challenges.
  • Perfect for: Children who struggle with reading or learning disabilities and anyone who enjoys stories of triumph over adversity.

• The BFG by Roald Dahl
  • Illustrator: Quentin Blake
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A young girl named Sophie meets the Big Friendly Giant (BFG) who, unlike other giants, does not eat children. Together, they embark on a mission to stop the man-eating giants.
  • Why we recommend this book: Dahl's imaginative storytelling and Blake's engaging illustrations create a magical reading experience that is accessible and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy magical adventures and stories about unlikely friendships.

• The It Girl by Katy Birchall
  • Genre(s): Comedy, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Anna Huntley's goals include fitting in at her new school and making friends, but her life turns upside down when her father gets engaged to a famous actress, leading Anna into a whirlwind of unexpected fame.
  • Why we recommend this book: The light-hearted and humorous approach makes reading fun and approachable for all readers, including those with dyslexia.
  • Perfect for: Teens who enjoy humorous tales and stories about navigating school and sudden fame.

Educational Dyslexia Friendly Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Iron Man by Ted Hughes
  • Illustrator: Andrew Davidson
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: A mysterious metal giant appears in a small English village, eating local farm equipment. A young boy named Hogarth discovers the giant and forms a unique friendship, leading to extraordinary adventures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, friendship dynamics, environmental awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: Its straightforward narrative and engaging plot make it ideal for readers with dyslexia, with clear, well-spaced text and captivating illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Fans of science fiction and young readers interested in stories about friendship and overcoming fear.

• Malamander by Thomas Taylor
  • Illustrator: Tom Booth
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in the seaside town of Eerie-on-Sea, this tale follows Herbert Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, as he teams up with Violet Parma to solve the mystery of her long-lost parents and the mythical Malamander.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, teamwork, deduction skills
  • Why we recommend this book: The text is dyslexia-friendly with a compelling mystery that keeps readers engaged and motivated.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and lovers of supernatural mysteries.

• The Girl Who Stole an Elephant by Nizrana Farook
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Chaya, a thief with a heart of gold, steals the queen’s jewels and escapes on the back of a royal elephant. She and her friends embark on a jungle adventure, pursued by the king’s soldiers.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, ethical decision-making, adventure storytelling
  • Why we recommend this book: Its fast-paced, thrilling narrative and clear, engaging text make it a joy for dyslexic readers.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous souls who enjoy vibrant settings and spirited heroines.

• Agent Zaiba Investigates: The Missing Diamonds by Annabelle Sami
  • Illustrator: Daniela Sosa
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Zaiba is determined to become a great detective. At her cousin’s Mehndi party, she gets her chance when a celebrity’s dog wears a diamond necklace that goes missing. Zaiba springs into action to uncover the thief.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, cultural knowledge, investigative skills
  • Why we recommend this book: The book features clear, accessible text and engaging illustrations, perfect for keeping dyslexic readers hooked.
  • Perfect for: Young sleuths and fans of diverse, culturally rich narratives.

• Brightstorm: A Sky-Ship Adventure by Vashti Hardy
  • Illustrator: George Ermos
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Steampunk
  • Synopsis: Twins Arthur and Maudie Brightstorm embark on a thrilling expedition to South Polaris to clear their late father's name and discover a world of sky-ships, explorers, and mystery.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, resilience, exploration
  • Why we recommend this book: Its adventurous spirit and creative steampunk elements are presented in a dyslexia-friendly format, making it accessible and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers and readers who love inventive fantasy worlds.

Challenging Dyslexia Friendly Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Clockwork Crow by Catherine Fisher
  • Illustrator: None
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mystery
  • Synopsis: A young orphan named Seren Rees is drawn into a magical adventure when she receives a mysterious parcel containing a mechanical crow. The crow leads her on a quest to find a missing family member in a world filled with magic and danger.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative intertwines complex themes of magic, mystery, and Victorian-era settings, requiring readers to engage deeply with the text and its historical context.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines a rich, atmospheric setting with a suspenseful plot that encourages problem-solving and critical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love historical fantasy and intricate plots.

• Wildspark: A Ghost Machine Adventure by Vashti Hardy
  • Illustrator: None
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In a world where ghosts can be captured and used to animate machines, young Prue Haywood joins a secretive guild to bring her brother's ghost back into a mechanical animal. She navigates complex inventions and ethical dilemmas.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book presents advanced concepts of technology and ethics, intertwined with a complex plot and richly developed characters.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique blend of science fiction and fantasy with thought-provoking themes, ideal for fostering imagination and ethical reasoning.
  • Perfect for: Young tech enthusiasts and fans of inventive, futuristic tales.

• The Star-spun Web by Sinéad O'Hart
  • Illustrator: None
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Tess de Sousa, an orphan living in a peculiar orphanage, discovers a mysterious device that can transport her to parallel worlds. She must navigate these new worlds to uncover her true origins and face a sinister threat.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex scientific concepts like parallel universes and quantum mechanics, woven into an engaging narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book challenges young readers to think critically about science and ethics while enjoying a thrilling adventure.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and adventurers who relish stories that blend reality with fantasy.

• Cogheart by Peter Bunzl
  • Illustrator: None
  • Genre(s): Steampunk, Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Lily Hartman's inventor father goes missing after a dirigible crash, leaving her with a mysterious silver locket. With her friends, Robert and Malkin, a mechanical fox, Lily uncovers a deadly secret that could change the world.
  • Why this book is challenging: The steampunk genre combines complex mechanical concepts with Victorian-era adventure, requiring readers to visualize intricate inventions and follow a sophisticated plot.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heart-pounding adventure that stimulates the imagination with its richly crafted world and mechanical marvels.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and readers who delight in puzzles and mysteries wrapped in a historical setting.

• The House with Chicken Legs by Sophie Anderson
  • Illustrator: Elisa Paganelli
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Marinka dreams of a normal life, but her house has chicken legs and moves at its own will, isolating her from the world. She is destined to guide spirits between this world and the next, but she yearns for her own path.
  • Why this book is challenging: This book incorporates Slavic folklore into a narrative that explores deep themes of destiny, life, and death, challenging readers to think about profound topics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique cultural perspective wrapped in a captivating fairy-tale setting, encouraging readers to explore and respect different heritages.
  • Perfect for: Readers fascinated by folklore and those who enjoy stories about self-discovery and challenging fate.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking for ways to help your 11-year-old develop better reading habits, especially if they're navigating the challenges of dyslexia, you've come to the right place. Here are some engaging and dyslexia-friendly exercises that can make reading a more enjoyable and effective experience.

• Read Aloud Together
  • What it is: Spend time reading a book aloud with your child.
  • How it helps: Enhances decoding skills by hearing the words while seeing them.
  • Tips: Choose dyslexia-friendly books with clear fonts and good spacing.

• Create a Multi-Sensory Reading Area
  • What it is: Set up a reading space that engages various senses.
  • How it helps: Stimulates learning by incorporating touch, sight, and sound.
  • Tips: Include comfortable seating, good lighting, and perhaps background white noise.

• Use Bookmarks with Questions
  • What it is: Use bookmarks that list questions or prompts about the text.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and comprehension as they read.
  • Tips: Tailor questions to the book’s content to make them relevant and engaging.

• Graphic Organizers
  • What it is: Utilize visual aids like story maps or character charts.
  • How it helps: Helps in organizing thoughts and remembering key details.
  • Tips: Use simple and clear layouts that are easy to follow.

• Reading Apps and Tools
  • What it is: Incorporate apps designed for dyslexic readers.
  • How it helps: Offers personalized settings like text size and font that can aid reading.
  • Tips: Try a few different apps to find the one that best suits your child’s needs.

• Pair Reading with Audiobooks
  • What it is: Read the text while listening to the audiobook version.
  • How it helps: Reinforces understanding through dual input modes.
  • Tips: Ensure the audiobook matches the text version to avoid confusion.

These exercises are not just about improving reading skills; they're about making reading a fun, engaging, and less daunting task for your child. Remember, the key is consistency and patience. Try incorporating these exercises into your daily reading routine and watch your young reader flourish! Happy reading!