Below we have picked 4 series of kids books which we think help children who are learning to read or are reluctant readers.

This is one of the questions we get asked most in our store. It is an exciting time for children when they begin to read for themselves but they can often be daunted by too many unknown words which slow them down or simply too many words on a page. With the right kids books, they can build up their confidence. It is important not to overwhelm them at the beginning even if that means reading and re-reading books which they almost know off by hear and are clearly too easy for them. As long as they get into the habit of reading and of having books in their hands, they will move on when they are ready.

Ladybird Read It Yourself

They may look & feel different from back in our day but Ladybird still set the standard when it comes to publishing books for children learning to read.

The Ladybird Read It Yourself series has 4 levels which roughly equate to Junior Infants, Senior Infants, 1^st & 2^nd. In each level you will find books of non-fiction, fairytales & your favourite modern characters such as Peppa Pig or Topsy & Tim.

The series is particularly strong in the first 3 levels but by the time you reach level 4, children will more than likely have found other books with more interest.

Fairy Unicorn

The era of the unicorn may be drawing to a close but Fairy Unicorn remain a best-selling series of books. Zoe is drawn into a magical world which is constantly in some sort of peril often environmental in nature. These books suit children in 1^st & 2^nd class.

When reading these or listening to your children reading these, certain words will come up again and again.

1. Whinny; a gentle, high-pitched neigh. (The sound a unicorn makes)
2. Gosamer; a light, thin, and insubstantial or delicate material or substance. (What unicorns are made of)
3. Shimmering; shining with a soft, slightly wavering light. (What unicorns spend their time doing)

Make sure your child knows these three words and they’ll be half way there!

There are 6 books in total. Beautifully presented in hardback. Lovely illustrations. Not too many words on each page but very importantly, broken down into chapters which will make your child feel like they are reading a proper book.

Nutshell series by Poolbeg

Poolbeg are onto a winner with this series of short informative books for children around the ages of 7 & 8. 

There are currently a huge range of titles available and they are broken down Into different categories

1. Irish Myths & Legends: Titles include Granuaile, Irish Vikings, Oisin & Tir Na nOg, The Children Of Lir & The Salmon Of Knowledge

2. Heroes: Titles include Daniel O’Connell, Charles Steward Parnell, Martin Luther King Jr, First For Irish Women & Michael Collins

3. Adventurers: Titles include Amelia Earhart & Tom Crean

The majority cost €4.99 and contain around 20 pages. A great way to help your child gain confidence in their reading while learning a story they will never forget.

Ultimate Football Heroes

There is no doubt that some children need more coaxing than others when it comes to reading but there is a book for every child depending on their interest. Ultimate Football Heroes is a series based on the career stories of some of the best-known footballers in the world such as Harry Kane, Lionel Messi & Neymar. This series can open a world of reading up to reluctant readers.

Should you require any assistance choosing books for your child, please email Midland Books tullamore@midlandbooks.ie

We would love to hear any suggestions you have of kids books which you found helped your child to read.