Recommended Books to Support Struggling Readers in KS3
If you are looking for recommended books to support struggling readers in Years 7, 8 and 9, this expertly curated BooksForTopics booklist is here to help! These are books that support reading at lower levels while still featuring stories, illustrations and cover designs that appeal to ages 11-14 – helping to avoid the need for books that seem ‘too young’.
All of the books on this list are published by Barrington Stoke, whose books are specially designed to be ‘super-readable’ and dyslexia-friendly thanks to their special font, off-white tinted paper and larger spacing that reduces visual stress. Importantly, the books selected feature quality short fiction by bestselling authors and illustrators, enabling KS3 readers to choose books that are appealing in visual style and interest level for their age range while containing text at a lower reading level designed to support reading development.
This Key Stage 3 Barrington Stoke reading list for supporting struggling readers features a huge range of themes, from sci-fi thrillers like Reek to historical fiction like The Mermaid in the Millpond. Relatable reads like My Perfect Cousin and The Mystery of Me feature alongside empathy-building titles like A Sudden Storm and Northern Soul, while books like The Wrong Wheels and Date with Danger offer high-interest themes specially designed to engage reluctant teen readers. Classic stories also feature, with a retelling of Frankenstein and a new, accessible version of Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde.
With something for all tastes, the titles on this booklist will help to develop success in reading in even the most reluctant readers.