Books to engage and motivate older, struggling readers

Older, struggling readers often have gaps in the their phonics knowledge.  They find alternative spellings particularly confusing.  Many suffer from low self-esteem so offering them decodable materials that are age-appropriate is vital.  Vital because if the reading materials can engage the disaffected reader, his/her motivation to try and read will grow.  Without motivation it is really hard to engage a student to learn something that is difficult.  But once the student experiences success—then motivation grows.  Appropriate reading materials can help to make that initial change in mindset from “reading is not for me” to “I can do this!”

We have now published three parallel series which introduce alternative spelling of vowel sounds.  This means that the reader can choose which series to read depending on their interests.  Does he/she like fantasy?  Then Talisman 1 would be a good choice.  Or is a series with a heroine preferable?  Rescue Series is the answer.  Or an adventure based in nature with an ecological slant?  Island Adventure is it!

This series has now been reviewed by Teach Primary Magazine.  What’s the verdict?

– Engaging, age-appropriate stories
– Visually appealing to the age group
– Sensitively supportive of the target audience
– Well-resourced with practice materials