Using Graphic Novels to Encourage Children with Dyslexia to Read for Pleasure

Reading for pleasure is one of the most rewarding habits a child can develop, and it is especially important for children with dyslexia. After all, the more exposure they have to the written word, the more their reading can progress. But can children with dyslexia ever reach the stage where they are reading for pleasure?

I think they can. While dyslexia can make reading more challenging, it doesn’t mean children can’t find joy in books. With the right tools, support, and strategies, children with dyslexia can unlock a world of stories and foster a lifelong love of reading.

One key to promoting reading for pleasure is offering accessible materials such as graphic novels. Graphic novels use visuals to support comprehension, allowing children to independently follow the story, even if they struggle with individual words. Choose accessible books that match your child’s interests - be it adventures, animals, fantasy or humour.

My Lower Key Stage 2 children are currently devouring the Dog Man series by Dav Pilkey.

This entertaining series combines quirky humour, heartwarming themes, and inventive storytelling as it follows the adventures of a crime-fighting canine hero.

If it is spooky stories they are after, this selection have gone down really well with slightly older children.

The written language is a bit more sophisticated in places, but the illustrations more than bridge the gap for the less confident readers to be able to follow the story.

If your children are looking for a little bit of magic with some enchanting illustrations thrown in, look no further than the Hildafolk series by Luke Pearson.

Following the curious and brave Hilda, these beautifully illustrated graphic novels blend charming storytelling with rich mythology. Perfect for readers of all ages - this series is a firm favourite of my adult daughter!

The library of graphic novels is ever-growing; every genre you can think of, bestselling books by popular authors, even the classics are getting a graphic novel makeover.

For more ideas to get you started, head on over to our graphic novel book list.

Enjoy!