10+ Best Dyslexia Friendly Books for 9-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)
Are you on the hunt for dyslexia-friendly books for 9-year-olds that combine fun stories with easy-to-read text? You're in the right place! In this blog, we'll explore a variety of books designed to engage and support young readers with dyslexia. Keep reading to discover our carefully curated lists of dyslexia-friendly books that promise to make reading an enjoyable adventure for your child!
Table of Contents
Fun Dyslexia Friendly Books for 9-Year-Olds
- The Goldfish Boy by Lisa Thompson
- Genre(s): Mystery, Contemporary
- Synopsis: Matthew Corbin suffers from severe obsessive-compulsive disorder that keeps him bound to his home. His life changes when a toddler staying next door goes missing, and Matthew is the last to have seen him. As he tries to piece together clues, Matthew must confront his own fears and step outside.
- Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping mystery that also sensitively handles themes of mental health and isolation. The clear, straightforward language and engaging mystery make it accessible and appealing to young readers.
- Perfect for: Kids who enjoy puzzles and mysteries, and anyone looking for a hero they can relate to.
- The Bolds by Julian Clary, illustrated by David Roberts
- Genre(s): Humor, Adventure
- Synopsis: The Bolds are a family of hyenas living as humans in a suburban neighborhood, hiding their true identity from everyone around them. Their life is full of hilarious adventures and the occasional challenge of keeping their animal side a secret.
- Why we recommend this book: It’s a laugh-out-loud story that combines humor with themes of identity and belonging. The playful text and lively illustrations make it a joy to read, particularly for those who might find dense text intimidating.
- Perfect for: Children who love animals, humor, and stories about fitting in.
- Agent Zaiba Investigates: The Missing Diamonds by Annabelle Sami, illustrated by Daniela Sosa
- Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
- Synopsis: Zaiba is an aspiring detective who gets her first big break at her cousin’s Mehndi party when a celebrity’s dog goes missing along with valuable diamonds. With her best friend and her sharp mind, Zaiba dives into the mystery.
- Why we recommend this book: This book is engaging with its fast-paced plot and diverse characters. The clear, dyslexia-friendly formatting and exciting storyline encourage continuous reading and engagement.
- Perfect for: Young detectives and fans of diverse, cultural stories.
- The It Girl by Katy Birchall
- Genre(s): Contemporary, Humor
- Synopsis: Anna Huntley's goals in life include keeping her two new BFFs, not being a total disaster at her school, and having her dad’s celebrity clients not hate her. Things get complicated fast when her dad starts dating a famous actress.
- Why we recommend this book: It's full of humor and heart, with a relatable protagonist who navigates the ups and downs of teenage life. The text is easy to read, making it great for dyslexic readers.
- Perfect for: Teens who like stories about friendship, fame, and finding oneself.
- Fergus Crane by Paul Stewart, illustrated by Chris Riddell
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: Fergus Crane receives a mysterious invitation that leads him to an adventure on a magical flying ship. He learns about his long-lost uncle and the secret of the Fire Diamond.
- Why we recommend this book: The story is thrilling with a lot of heart. The illustrations complement the text, helping to guide the reader through the story and add an extra layer of engagement.
- Perfect for: Young adventurers and fantasy lovers who enjoy stories of exploration and discovery.
Educational Dyslexia Friendly Books for 9-Year-Olds
- The Clockwork Crow by Catherine Fisher
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Mystery
- Synopsis: A young orphan named Seren Rees is drawn into a magical mystery when she receives a strange, mechanical crow that can speak. Together, they embark on a quest to find a missing family and uncover hidden secrets.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, problem-solving, vocabulary expansion
- Why we recommend this book: It combines enchanting fantasy with a gripping mystery, presented in a dyslexia-friendly format that makes it easier for readers to follow along.
- Perfect for: Young readers who love magical adventures and mysteries.
- Arlo Finch in the Valley of Fire by John August
- Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy
- Synopsis: Arlo Finch joins a mysterious scout troop in Pine Mountain, where he learns about magical realms and his unique family legacy, while facing unimaginable dangers.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, imaginative thinking, outdoor survival skills
- Why we recommend this book: The story is action-packed and full of intriguing lore, written in a clear and engaging style that aids dyslexic readers.
- Perfect for: Adventurous kids who enjoy stories about nature, magic, and self-discovery.
- Max and the Millions by Ross Montgomery
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: Max discovers a secret world of tiny people living beneath his school. When he learns they are in danger, he must embark on a journey to save them and their civilization.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, leadership, imaginative thinking
- Why we recommend this book: The book features large print and spaced text, making it accessible, and the story itself is both thrilling and heartwarming.
- Perfect for: Young readers who love stories about hidden worlds and heroic quests.
- The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart by Stephanie Burgis
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: A dragon transforms into a human girl after drinking enchanted hot chocolate and sets out to fulfill her dream of becoming a master chocolatier.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Culinary arts, friendship, adapting to new situations
- Why we recommend this book: It's a delightful blend of fantasy and food, with an engaging narrative that helps maintain focus and interest for readers with dyslexia.
- Perfect for: Aspiring young chefs and anyone who loves a sweet, magical tale.
- The Song from Somewhere Else by A.F. Harrold, illustrated by Levi Pinfold
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Mystery
- Synopsis: Frank, bullied and lonely, discovers a mysterious music coming from her neighbor's house. She befriends Nick and uncovers otherworldly secrets that could change everything.
- Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, courage, dealing with bullying
- Why we recommend this book: The evocative illustrations and lyrical text create a captivating reading experience that's both accessible and profound.
- Perfect for: Children dealing with bullying or loneliness, and fans of stories with a touch of the supernatural.
Challenging Dyslexia Friendly Books for 9-Year-Olds
- The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
- Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
- Synopsis: When Roz the robot washes ashore on a wild island, she must learn to survive in a hostile environment that challenges her robotic nature. As she adapts, Roz becomes part of the island's animal community, forging unlikely friendships.
- Why this book is challenging: The narrative explores complex themes such as adaptation, technology in nature, and the meaning of community, which are profound and thought-provoking for young readers.
- Why we recommend this book: It's a unique blend of technology and nature, encouraging readers to think about harmony between the natural world and artificial intelligence.
- Perfect for: Young tech enthusiasts and nature lovers who enjoy stories about survival and friendship.
- Malamander by Thomas Taylor, illustrated by Tom Booth
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Mystery
- Synopsis: In the foggy town of Eerie-on-Sea, Herbert Lemon, a lost-and-found officer, teams up with Violet Parma to solve the mystery of her long-lost parents and the legendary sea-monster, the Malamander.
- Why this book is challenging: The book features a complex plot with twists and a richly developed mythical world that requires advanced comprehension skills.
- Why we recommend this book: It offers a thrilling adventure with a deep, immersive world and a captivating mystery that hooks readers from the beginning.
- Perfect for: Mystery lovers and fans of mythical creatures and seaside adventures.
- Circus Mirandus by Cassie Beasley
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: Micah Tuttle believes in the magical Circus Mirandus which his grandfather told him about. When his grandfather falls ill, Micah hopes the circus and its magical Lightbender can save him.
- Why this book is challenging: It deals with themes of belief, loss, and hope, intertwined with complex magical elements that challenge the reader’s imagination and emotional understanding.
- Why we recommend this book: This book combines magic and deep emotional themes, providing a touching story that also stimulates the imagination.
- Perfect for: Readers who enjoy emotional depth mixed with enchanting magical adventures.
- Brightstorm: A Sky-Ship Adventure by Vashti Hardy
- Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy, Steampunk
- Synopsis: Twins Arthur and Maudie Brightstorm embark on a thrilling expedition to reach South Polaris aboard a sky-ship, facing fierce competitors and dealing with a mysterious family secret.
- Why this book is challenging: The steampunk genre blends science fiction with fantasy, requiring readers to engage with complex world-building and inventive technological concepts.
- Why we recommend this book: It’s a high-stakes adventure that encourages problem-solving and resilience, wrapped in a vividly imagined world.
- Perfect for: Young explorers who dream of adventures and enjoy creative, technological constructs in storytelling.
- Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend
- Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
- Synopsis: Cursed child Morrigan Crow is whisked away to the magical city of Nevermoor. To stay in this safe new world, she must compete in four difficult and dangerous trials.
- Why this book is challenging: The book introduces a complex new world with its own rules and challenges, demanding strong attention to detail and critical thinking from its readers.
- Why we recommend this book: It’s a captivating fantasy with a strong female lead facing life-changing trials, promoting courage and self-discovery.
- Perfect for: Fans of magical competitions and anyone who loves a story about overcoming adversity with bravery and wit.
Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit
Hey there! If you're looking for ways to help your 9-year-old develop good reading habits, especially if they're navigating the challenges of dyslexia, you're in the right place. Here are some simple and effective exercises designed to be dyslexia-friendly. These can make reading a more enjoyable and successful activity for your child.
- Read Aloud Together
- What it is: Spend time reading a book aloud with your child every day.
- How it helps: Enhances decoding skills and improves word recognition.
- Tips: Choose dyslexia-friendly books with clear fonts and good spacing.
- Picture Walk
- What it is: Look through the pictures in a book before reading to predict the story.
- How it helps: Builds anticipation and context, making the text easier to understand.
- Tips: Discuss each picture and ask your child what they think is happening.
- Word Hunt
- What it is: Have your child hunt for specific words in the text as you read together.
- How it helps: Strengthens word recognition and helps reinforce vocabulary.
- Tips: Start with high-frequency words that your child is likely to encounter often.
- Match the Audio
- What it is: Listen to an audiobook while following along with the printed book.
- How it helps: Improves reading fluency and aids in understanding the pronunciation of words.
- Tips: Ensure the audiobook and printed text are exactly the same for best results.
- Create a Reading Nook
- What it is: Set up a comfortable and well-lit area dedicated to reading.
- How it helps: Makes reading a special and enjoyable activity.
- Tips: Let your child personalize the space with their favorite cushions or posters.
- Reading Chain
- What it is: After finishing a book, link it to another book by theme, author, or subject.
- How it helps: Encourages continuous reading and deeper exploration of genres and topics.
- Tips: Use a visual map to add links, creating a visual representation of reading progress.
Implementing these exercises can significantly enhance your child's reading skills and make their reading journey more enjoyable. Remember, the key is consistency and patience. Happy reading!