According to the National Education Association, third grade is the turning point for young readers to go from reading words to understanding what they mean.
I have written a sci-fi series called Pond Punkies, designed to help the struggling reader. I wrote this series based on what I learned are the most important ingredients to help young reluctant readers. I came up with a list of ten.
1. A cover that catches the attention of the reader.
A cover suggests that the book is fascinating or humorous enough to merit reading. The cover art is clever and visually stimulating, giving a glimpse of what is inside for the reader. It should never have anything printed on it suggesting that it is for the reluctant reader.
2. Unquestionably distinct and likable characters.
Struggling readers need to care about the characters and what happens to them in the story. The reader should be able to connect with the characters dilemma and personality.
3. A lively plot that accelerates in movement.
The story arrangement should be uncomplicated and progress the reader through the book at a steady pace. Action should not be spared because of plot simplicity.
4. The interior book design should have larger text, ample margins, and enticing illustrations.
Small paragraphs and chapter headings are more pleasing for the struggling reader. Chapters and illustrations offer places for the reader to take breaks.
5. Sentences are understandable and simple.
Straightforward and clear vocabulary help the struggling reader stay on task. Sentence length should be short and the words should be easy to pronounce.
6. Inside pages are cream or off-white in color.
The consensus is that cream paper is easier to read than black print on white, especially for dyslexics.
7. Let the struggling reader choose the book.
Make sure you have many books for the reader to choose from, but let the reader make the final choice. The more actively they are involved in choosing the book, the better chances are they will read it.
8. Must have compelling content.
Books must ignite the struggling reader in the first few pages or they will not continue reading. Action and conflict automatically grab the reader’s interest. Humor and action in fast-moving stories keeps the struggling reader turning the pages.
9. Series books tend to attract struggling readers.
Series have memorable characters and predictable themes. The reader connects with the principal characters and can relate to what is happening with them in the series. The reader gets captivated with the series.
10. Space between lines should be wide and words should not be hyphenated.
Line spacing is important. If the print is spaced too closely together, the struggling reader will become frustrated and close the book before connecting with the story. Larger spacing between the lines is easier on the eyes and helps the reluctant reader to stay on track.
