How to Write for Reluctant Young Readers And How To Encourage Reluctant Readers to Read!
For many parents, carers and teachers, trying to coax a reluctant reader to pick up a book to read can at times feel overwhelming!
Arguably, learning to read is the most challenging tasks a child will face. Reading requires the integration of different cognitive skills: phonemic awareness, vocabulary development, comprehension and concentration. Understanding the confusing shapes and symbols (which can be transformed into sounds and words) can be overwhelming, so it's crucial to apply all our writing and design skills to simplify this.
The fascination of screens, demands of schoolwork, and a general lack of interest can make reading seem more of a chore than a joy for some kids - so reading for pleasure declines.
But what if I told you that even the most reluctant reader can discover the magic to be found in books?
I’ve spent 45 years creating and designing books to capture young imaginations, including those of children who don’t initially gravitate toward books. Creating, designing and writing for reluctant readers requires creativity, empathy, and a few innovative techniques to make stories irresistibly engaging.
Here are some of my ideas to inspire even the most hesitant young readers!
First, I’ll share the short answer with you.
If a child is reluctant to read because they're put off or intimidated by the complexity of language in most books aimed at their age range, the solution is to simplify and reshape the text. Logically enough, the way the words are laid out on the page will impact on how easily a child can read them. Keep sentences and paragraphs short, line spacings regular, and columns of text quite narrow, as young readers can struggle to follow text that flows across entire pages.
Designing pages for Reluctant Readers
Guide the reader from one element of the page to the next using clear and simple fonts in the body text. However, be careful not to make the design seem too simplistic as this can turn young readers off if they think the book is aimed at a younger age group. Keeping the page looking fun can be the secret to ensuring a reader wants to continue turning the pages. Breaking the text up into small paragraphs inserting maps, timelines, fact boxes along with illustrations which are well labelled, offer more variety and make the reading process feel livelier and more dynamic, speech bubbles can be used in different ways. To add character and visual interest use more unusual or elaborate fonts in the headings and in the dropped caps. These can additionally act as a code to show uncertain readers where to start reading.
Engaging Reluctant Readers
Non-fiction books can be structured to present information in short, digestible segments. This format allows reluctant readers to absorb content without feeling overwhelmed, making it easier for them to engage with the content.
To hook reluctant readers, write shortish books on relatable or high interest themes, use brilliant illustrations, steal elements found in graphic novels - like speech bubbles. Choose humour, adventure, mystery or horror genres. Incorporate decorative fonts as headings and as dropped capitals.
Dropped capitals help children who are learning to read as a clue to where the main text starts. Decorative fonts help to make the feeling that this is going to be fun. Align book subjects with a child's interests and hobbies to create stress-free, fun reading elements and above all let the child choose what they are interested in - choice is king when it comes to making a reader.
Ok so now we have the takeaway in place of what will attract a reluctant reader in the way of page design and subject matter, let's head into more details of how you can write children’s novels which capture the imagination of even the most reluctant readers!
Make the Story Relatable
One reason children might resist reading is that they struggle to connect with the story. Every child develops at their own pace, influenced by age, exposure to language, and prior knowledge. Children who are read to regularly tend to have stronger reading skills as they enter school compared to those who have not been read to.
Additionally, children with specific learning disabilities may face greater challenges in learning to read. Reluctant readers often benefit from books with characters, settings, or challenges that reflect their own experiences or what they obviously may be interested in.
For example, Jacqueline Wilson, writes stories featuring real-world struggles, friendships, family challenges, and personal growth which resonate deeply with young readers.
Think of Tracy Beaker, a character who speaks directly to children about what it feels like to be misunderstood.
When writing, consider what makes a child feel seen. Is it playground rivalry? An odd, sense of humour? A longing to fit in? Creating characters and situations children can relate to helps reluctant readers feel as if the story is speaking directly to them.
Start Small and Build Up
Many reluctant readers find long books overwhelming. Starting with short, accessible stories, like illustrated chapter books or graphic novels can be a gateway to the joy of reading!
Authors like Jeff Kinney (Diary of a Wimpy Kid) and Dav Pilkey (Dog Man) understand that visuals paired with humour make stories approachable for children who might otherwise shy away from books.
Illustrated chapter books or graphic novels provide formats which can be key for children who haven’t yet developed the patience for longer reads and also a feeling of accomplishment that a book has been completed. Choose your own adventure type books which were popular in the 1980's are good for reluctant readers.
As children grow more confident, they can gradually be encouraged to explore longer novels. The important thing is to show children that reading can be a manageable and an enjoyable experience.
Inject Humour and Playfulness
Laughter is one of the best ways to hook a reluctant reader. Books that are funny, silly, or downright absurd can help kids associate reading with joy rather than duty. Roald Dahl’s stories, with their outrageous characters and clever wordplay, are perfect examples.
When writing for children, don’t shy away from playing with language. Use puns, silly rhymes, or made-up words to capture their attention.
Think about what makes kids laugh in everyday life, whether it’s a mischievous sibling or a pet’s goofy antics and find ways to weave that humour into your stories.
Strategies to Engage Reluctant Readers...
...Add an Element of Adventure or Mystery
Children are naturally curious, and tapping into that curiosity is a fantastic way to pull them into a story. Books with a sense of adventure, mystery, or problem-solving can keep young readers engaged.
Enid Blyton’s The Famous Five series is a timeless example, offering adventures that keep kids guessing. Many Famous Five stories follow a similar structure: the children embark on a holiday or adventure, encounter a mystery or a criminal element, they work together to resolve the situation. This formula can lead to a sense of predictability, as readers may notice that the core elements: treasure hunting, kidnappings, or meetings with low level villains are frequently reused across different titles. Children do seem to enjoy the predictability though. Many reluctant readers benefit from this structure, as it provides an accessible entry point into reading. Roald Dahl's stories are filled with imaginative plots and some truly appalling characters that children adore. Dahl's unique sense of humour, often involving absurdity and clever wordplay, appeals to children. Books like Revolting Rhymes showcase his playful approach to storytelling, which can draw in reluctant readers who may otherwise shy away from more serious texts. Dahl's writing style: short chapters and straightforward language, makes his books feel less intimidating for reluctant readers. More recently, Anthony Horowitz’s Alex Rider series has captivated reluctant readers with its high-stakes action and fast-paced storytelling.
When writing, build suspense by ending chapters with cliffhangers or questions that make readers eager to find out what happens next. Even a small mystery, like discovering who left a secret note can keep a child turning the pages.
Offer Choice and Variety
Every child is different, and no single book will appeal to all readers. Offering a variety of genres, formats, and themes can help reluctant readers discover what resonates with them.
For example, some kids might enjoy non-fiction books about their favourite animals, sports, or historical events. Others might prefer fantasy worlds filled with dragons and magic. As the author of several children’s books, I often write across genres to ensure there’s something for every type of reader, from the curious scientist to the budding adventurer.
Encourage children to choose books that align with their interests even if those choices seem unconventional. A passion for dinosaurs, Minecraft, or superheroes can be the perfect stepping stone into the world of reading.
Incorporate Interactivity
Interactive elements like puzzles, games, or activities can make reading more engaging for reluctant readers. For younger children, books with flaps to lift or textures to touch create a sensory experience. For older kids, try novels with riddles to solve or choose-your-own-adventure endings.
Remember R.L. Stine’s Give Yourself Goosebumps series? These books allow readers to decide the protagonist’s fate, making them active participants in the story. Adding this level of engagement transforms reading into a dynamic and personal experience.
Harness the Power of Role Models
Children often look up to their parents, teachers, or older siblings. If they see the adults in their lives enjoying books, they’re more likely to open a book.
Create moments for shared reading, where you and your child can enjoy a story together. Reading aloud, especially with dramatic voices or sound effects, can make a story come alive. I’ve seen how children and adults light up when they hear a story read with enthusiasm as it brings the characters and world to life in a way that feels magical!
Blend Reading with Technology
While screens can often feel like the enemy of reading, they don’t have to be. Digital storytelling apps and e-books can make reading more appealing to tech-savvy kids. Audiobooks, in particular, are a fantastic tool for reluctant readers.
For example, the audiobook versions of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, narrated by Stephen Fry, have introduced countless children to the joy of storytelling. Pairing audiobooks with physical copies allows children to follow along, combining reading and listening for a multi-sensory experience.
Reward Progress
Incentives can be a helpful way to motivate reluctant readers. Consider setting up a reward system where children earn small prizes for finishing books or chapters.
As an author, I’ve also seen how sharing a child’s reading accomplishments, whether through a school reading challenge or a book club can really help to boost their confidence.
Celebrate their progress to reinforce the idea that reading is something to be proud of.
Write Stories Children Can’t Put Down
Finally, if you’re an aspiring children’s author, remember that your stories can make all the difference. Write with reluctant readers in mind by focusing on engaging plots, relatable characters, and accessible language.
Opening Sentences:
Here are some attention grabbing opening sentences from books that are good for reluctant readers:
The Lightning Thief Rick Riordan
"I accidentally vaporised my pre-algebra teacher."
This sentence grabs attention with its blackly comic premise.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone J.K. Rowling
"Mr. and Mrs. Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, were proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much."
A seemingly ordinary world is introduced before hinting at the extraordinary behind Mrs Dursley’s net curtains.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid Jeff Kinney
"First of all, let me get something straight: this is a journal, not a diary."
This comical distinction engages the reader with a relatable voice.
Skeleton Creek Patrick Carman
"I’m writing this in my journal because I can’t tell anyone what really happened."
This opening sentence creates an air of mystery and suspense, compelling readers to want to know the events led to this secrecy.
Danger is Everywhere by David O'Doherty
"WARNING: This book is full of danger!"
A playful warning not only captures attention but sets a humorous tone.
Keep chapters short, and avoid overwhelming the text with dense descriptions.
Stories that blend entertainment with emotional resonance like those of Michael Morpurgo or Julia Donaldson create a lasting impact on young readers. They make reading feel like an adventure, a comfort, and a joy all at once.
Sparking a Love for Reading
Transforming a reluctant reader into a book lover isn’t an overnight process, it’s a journey filled with patience, creativity, and plenty of trial and error.
With a little determination, you can help even the most hesitant child discover the magic waiting in the pages of a book.
Research books and look for books that have a history of ressonating with the needs of reluctant readers in mind, you’ll not only hook them, you’ll set them on a lifelong path of literary discovery!
First Person Narrative
Another good way of making a book more involving for a young reader is to involve him or her in the story. If the narrative of a history book is presented in the first-person, with the reader put in the position of a figure living through the period, such as a gladiator in Rome or a peasant in Anglo-Saxon England, it can turn a subject that might otherwise be perceived as dry and stuffy into something much more engrossing.
As is widely known, it is often boys who are the most reluctant readers. Many boys are not interested in reading unless they can see an immediate, practical 'use' in what they're reading about, so the best way to win them over is by providing information in titles that explain the world to them. I always ensured that I included 'handy hints' in my series: You Wouldn't Want To be... alongside the main text, which give readers the opportunity to see the repetition and placing the "handy Hint' box in the same place on every spread meant the reader knew what was going to be there as a consistent element to the fledgling reader would be confident and feel more actively engaged with it via the reading process.
Reluctant Readers
Reluctant readers should be seen as a challenge and an opportunity for publishers, not a lost cause, and if enough innovation, invention and thought goes into the titles targeted at them, reluctant readers can be transformed into book worms too!
After all, every child deserves to experience the wonder of a story that feels like it was written just for them. And who knows? The next Jacqueline Wilson or Michael Morpurgo could be waiting to find inspiration in your words!
Popular Subjects for Reluctant Readers
Adventure and Action
Stories filled with excitement, danger, and exploration capture attention. Themes can include treasure hunts, survival stories, or quests which involve overcoming obstacles.
Mystery and Detective Stories
Engaging plots which involve solving mysteries or crimes can be intriguing. These stories can encourage critical thinking and problem-solving.
Humour
Funny stories or humorous characters can make reading enjoyable. Light-hearted narratives with relatable situations often appeal to children. Comics are great for reluctant readers.
Fantasy and Science Fiction
Imaginative worlds, magical or futuristic settings allow children to escape reality. Themes of taming dragons, fighting aliens, or interacting with superheroes are can be captivating.
Non-Fiction Topics
Many reluctant readers prefer non-fiction, especially if it relates to their hobbies or interests (e.g., animals, sports, space). Books that provide interesting facts or how-to guides can be very engaging.
Sports and Hobbies
Stories centered around sports or specific hobbies (like gaming or crafting) resonate with children who are passionate about these activities.
Real-Life Issues and Emotions
Books which address friendship, family dynamics, or personal challenges help children relate to the characters and their situations.
Graphic Novels and Illustrated Books
Visual storytelling through graphic novels or books with engaging illustrations can attract reluctant readers who may struggle with traditional text-heavy formats. Graphic novels are good for giving the 'high interest, low reading age'.
Horror Stories
Horror stories provide a controlled environment where readers can confront their fears without real-world consequences. This safe space allows them to experience fear and anxiety in a manageable way, helping them learn to cope with these emotions effectively. Light horror stories can create a sense of community among young readers who can share similar interests. Children talking about favourite scary books or characters can create connections among peer groups, making reading a more social activity.
Book Series
Series allow for character development over time and give young readers a reason to continue reading. Finding a series that aligns with a child's interests can foster a love for reading. Look at Enid Blyton, as mentioned previously writing practically the same story over and over again with minor changes.
Current Trends and Obsessions
Incorporating popular trends (current films, games, or reality or sports stars) can draw in reluctant readers by connecting the material to their current interests, this needs to be treated with extreme caution though in books as books need to have a longer shelf life than trends which may suddenly pass making the book feel dated quickly. TV stars can quickly become toast in the digital age too from an ill advised comment or accusations which don't reach a court room but can stick.
Key Considerations for Writing
Accessibility:
Use simple language and short sentences to ensure comprehension without talking down to your reader.
Engaging Hooks:
Begin with strong hooks that grab attention immediately.
Relatable Characters:
Create characters that children can identify with or aspire to be like.
Pacing:
Maintain a fast pace with action and dialogue to keep the reader engaged.
Choice: Allow children to choose what they read to foster ownership over their reading journey.
Focusing on popular subjects writers can create compelling content that not only engages reluctant readers but hopefully helps develop a lasting interest in reading.
It's important to acknowledge that not everyone will develop a love for reading in the same way or at the same time; some children may face difficulties with reading, such as dyslexia, or have limited access to material that they can engage with.
Supporting a Reluctant Reader
Create a Positive Reading Environment
Model your reading behaviour: Let children see you enjoying books, newspapers, or magazines. This helps normalise reading as an enjoyable activity.
Provide a Space: Set up a comfortable, distraction-free area with adequate lighting and comfortable seating to make reading time feel special.
Limit Pressure: Avoid framing reading as an obligation. Instead, present it as a choice and an opportunity to explore different subjects and different types of books.
Start with their interests.
Choose books or materials that relate to their interests or favourite topics. For example: Nature lover? Try wildlife books. Sports fan? Go for athlete biographies or sports-themed novels. Gaming enthusiast? Look for stories based on games or graphic novels with adventure elements.
Don’t limit children to traditional books. Magazines, comic books, or even video game guides can spark interest.
Use Accessible Formats
Audiobooks: These are fantastic for children who struggle with decoding text but can still enjoy stories and expand their vocabulary.
Graphic Novels: The mix of visuals and text engages children who find dense pages of text overwhelming.
Interactive or Digital Books: E-readers, apps, and games that incorporate storytelling can make reading feel less intimidating.
Keep goals manageable.
Encourage small, consistent reading habits, such as 10 minutes before bedtime or a single chapter at a time. Reading a chapter each is a way to involve a child in a book.
Use a calendar or chart to track reading sessions and celebrate milestones, like finishing a book or reading for several days in a row.
Explore Different Genres
Offer a range of genres to find what resonates. Consider mysteries, humour, fantasy, poetry, or nonfiction with amazing facts.
Allow children to explore multiple genres to discover their preferences without judgement.
Let Them Choose
Give children autonomy in picking what to read. Letting children look at bookshops, libraries, or publishers' catalogues online can empower children to find something they genuinely want to engage with.
Make Reading Social
Read aloud together, alternating paragraphs or pages. Join library reading groups or family book clubs to make reading a shared experience. Discuss the book afterward to deepen the engagement for the family and show that you are interested in their opinions. It’s useful to discuss the story and how it works or doesn’t.
Encourage relatable and age-appropriate content.
Offer books with relatable characters, themes, or challenges the child might connect with. Ensure the reading level matches their abilities to avoid frustration. Fledgling readers sometimes enjoy going back to picture books they enjoyed at a much younger age, and being familiar with the story can help a child gain confidence.
Don’t Shy Away from Technology
Try digital resources like e-books with read-along features or apps designed for improving literacy skills.
Support Struggling Readers
If your child faces difficulties, like dyslexia, consider consulting with teachers or specialists for guidance. Use tools like coloured overlays, larger fonts, or specific reading methods to make the process easier. Not one technique will work, as everyone is different.
Emphasise the fun, not the obligations.
Play reading-related games or quizzes. Explore books tied to films or TV series children already love. Laugh together at silly stories or rhymes—reading doesn’t have to be serious to be beneficial.
Celebrate Successes
Acknowledge every achievement, no matter how small. Whether it’s finishing a book or reading aloud for the first time, celebrate their effort. Reward their progress with experiences tied to their interests, like visiting a zoo after reading a book about animals.
Encouraging a reluctant reader requires patience, creativity, and a focus on their preferences and abilities. By nurturing their interests and reducing pressure, you can help them find joy in reading at their own pace. Remember: reading is an individual journey, and it’s okay if their path looks different from others.