October is Dyslexia Awareness Month. To celebrate and spread awareness, Assistive Technology Coordinators Natalie Schloss and Grace Cacini have compiled a list of books by and about individuals with dyslexia. We have both informative books for caregivers and educators and fun books for children. For more information on dyslexia and the resources available at the IRRC, visit our webpage with dyslexia resources.
For Caregivers and Educators
The Dyslexic Advantage: Unlocking the Hidden Potential of the Dyslexic Brain by Brock L. Eide and Fernette F. Eide
Author information: Fernette Eide, MD, is a leading expert on dyslexia and has served as a visiting lecturer at the Stanford Graduate School of Education, specializing in parent-teacher training and positive dyslexia awareness. Brock Eide, MD, is the CEO of Neurolearning.com, which aims to provide comprehensive identification of dyslexia. He has also been a visiting lecturer at the Stanford Graduate School of Education. Together, Dr. Fernette Eide and Dr. Brock Eide are the co-founders of the nonprofit The Dyslexic Advantage.
Book notes: This book shares compelling research through the lens of the authors’ personal experiences with dyslexia. It focuses on research to see how the dyslexic experience is different at home, at school, and in the workplace to unveil their strengths for success.
The Dyslexia Empowerment Plan: A Blueprint for Renewing Your Child’s Confidence and Love of Learning by Ben Foss
Author information: Ben Foss is a successful activist and entrepreneur with dyslexia who knows firsthand how to embrace the unique strengths associated with dyslexia.
Book notes: This book focuses on the holistic, social-emotional components of dyslexia to help caregivers and educators understand the diagnosis and experience. Ben Foss supports his research by sharing his own journey with dyslexia. This nonfiction book is incredibly helpful for people with dyslexia to discover their strengths and for caregivers to guide them.
Dyslexia: A Complete Guide for Parents and Those Who Help Them by Gavin Reid
Author information: Dr. Gavin Reid is an internationally accredited psychologist, with master’s degrees in education and psychology. Dr. Reid is the Chair of the British Dyslexia Association Accreditation Board and has twenty-six years of experience teaching a variety of levels of education.
Book notes: This book is a detailed guide for caregivers of children with dyslexia. Dr. Reid includes advice on early intervention, assessments, learning aids, and collaboration with educators. This book is also praised for its easy to understand language and summaries.
Helping Your Child With Language-Based Learning Disabilities by Daniel Franklin
Author information: Daniel Franklin, PhD, holds a master’s degree in reading, language, and learning disabilities, and a PhD in education. He has over thirty years of experience in education.
Book note: This book gives both a first hand account of what it was like to grow up with a language based learning disability and a professional perspective on how to support those with any language based learning disabilities, not only dyslexia. Dr. Franklin focuses heavily on relationships and advocating for childrens’ educational needs through collaboration. This unique perspective makes for an impactful and reputable read.
I Spy a Great Reader by Jackie French
Author information: Jackie French is an accomplished writer and advocate who has dyslexia and is passionate about promoting literacy for all children.
Book note: Award-winning author Jackie French wrote this book to help parents through the process of identifying their child's reading needs. She offers helpful games and activities to inspire your child into loving reading based on her own experience of having dyslexia.
For Children
Fish in a Tree by Linda Hunt
Ages 10 and Up
This is an uplifting chapter book that shares the experience of Ally, a student who has dyslexia. Throughout the book, Ally often causes trouble to hide the condition until her newest teacher finds a way to discover there is a lot more to her than her diagnosis.
A Walk in the Words by Hudson Talbott
Ages 4-8
This autobiographical story follows Hudson Talbott, a creative young boy who is a non-mainstream learner. Throughout the book, Hudson uses his creativity and self acceptance to thrive with reading in his own way. A Walk in the Words is an inspiring story of individuality and acceptance.
Welcome Back, Maple Mahta-Cohen by Kate McGovern
Ages 9-12
This novel follows Maple, a storytelling genius, who discovers she has to repeat the fifth grade due to her reading challenges. Throughout this inspiring story, Maple learns how to be proud of her differences, recognize her strengths, and find the good in every situation.
Aaron Slater, Illustrator by Andrea Beaty
Ages 5-8
This picture book follows Aaron, a young boy who loves to draw. Aaron wants to write stories, but struggles with writing due to having dyslexia. With the help of his teachers and a lot of creativity, Aaron embarks on a mission to share his stories. At the end of the book, Aaron shares an inspiring story about kindness and courage with his class.
The Boy Who Learned Upside Down by Christy Scatterella
Ages 6-8
This inspiring book is based on the true story of Christy Scatterella and her son, Alex. It follows a young boy’s journey to read through unique challenges, all with the help of his dog, Shadow! This story is a heartwarming tale about finding your strengths and learning.
Dyslexia Is My Superpower (Most of the Time) by Margaret Rooke
Ages 8-18
This book is a collection of more than 100 interviews, quotes, and tips from children with dyslexia. Not only does this novel include inspiring messages and strategies, but it can help children and teenagers with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities feel less alone and more connected to their peers.
