Navigating the world of education as a teacher or school leader means constantly seeking new ways to support every student. For the millions of students with dyslexia and other learning differences, finding resources that foster a sense of belonging and empowerment is essential. This is where the power of literature comes in.
The following showcase of amazing books can validate, inspire, and celebrate the strengths of neurodiverse learners. Inspired by a recent EdTalk, this curated book walk offers a glimpse into stories that not only provide representation but also promote inclusivity and understanding among all readers. Let’s explore some titles that can help you create a more supportive environment for your students.
👉 Get access to this EdTalk, plus 16 others, two keynotes and five other informative sessions through Dec. 31, 2025 using code SPOD25IDA at learningally.org/spod.
Top 10 Neurodiversity Books
Validating and Inspiring Neurodiverse Readers
Each of these books offers a unique perspective on dyslexia and learning differences, making them perfect for sparking conversations and building empathy in the classroom.
Daisy T-Rex is Dyslexic by Sarah Moore
This adorable story features an anthropomorphic dinosaur who excels at math and science but struggles with reading and spelling. It’s a fun and relatable tale that highlights the importance of peer and tutor support, showing students that they are not alone in their challenges.
My Friend Has Dyslexia by Amanda Doering Tourville
Told from the perspective of a friend, this book is a fantastic tool for building empathy. It includes “Did You Know?” facts that are woven throughout the story, providing simple, scientific insights into dyslexia. This book helps readers understand what their peers might be going through and how they can be a source of encouragement.
Everyone is Good at Something by Polly Meadows
A powerful reminder that everyone has unique gifts. This book follows Thomas as he struggles with dyslexia and offers a message of perseverance and resilience. It’s a great choice for teaching students that it’s okay to face challenges and that success often comes from sticking with something, even when it’s hard.
The Map Challenge by Tracy Packiam Alloway
Part of the Superpower series, this book celebrates the positive traits associated with learning differences. It tells the story of a dyslexic student at summer camp who uses his innate spatial reasoning skills to navigate and solve a problem when others are stumped. The book includes discussion points for teachers and parents, making it a great resource for post-reading activities.
The Floss Rule by Yvette Manns
For a fun approach to phonics, check out this book from a series of phonics-based read-alouds. It makes learning tricky rules of the English language accessible and enjoyable. By personifying letters and sounds, these books help students with dyslexia make sense of concepts that might otherwise be confusing.
Celebrating Strengths and Fostering Resilience
Beyond acknowledging struggles, these books highlight the incredible strengths that often accompany neurodiversity.
Ben and Emma’s Big Hit by Gavin Newsome
Inspired by Governor Gavin Newsom’s own experience with dyslexia, this story is a testament to the power of determination and perseverance. It’s a beautiful book that teaches students they can achieve great things by trying and trying again.
A Walk in the Words by Hudson Talbott
This inspiring story is a beautiful metaphor for the reading journey. It shows how words can be stumbling blocks, but with self-trust and patience, they can also become stepping stones. The book’s stunning illustrations literally weave words into the landscape, visually representing the emotional experience of reading for a dyslexic student. It’s a wonderful tool for teaching students to “savor” the story rather than feeling rushed.
Sparkle by Alexandra Hoffman
Sparkle celebrates thinking outside the box. When a teacher asks the class to write a story, Jasmine, who struggles with reading and writing, chooses to tell her story through pictures. Her teacher’s affirmation that everyone communicates in their own way is a powerful message that resonates with every child.
The Gift of Being Different by Monica Berg
This book invites readers into the mind of a child with dyslexia, reframing their uniqueness not as an imperfection but as a superpower. It highlights dyslexic strengths such as thinking in pictures, seeing “the way things could be,” and being highly aware of one’s surroundings. This book is a must-read for boosting the self-esteem of students who feel isolated by their differences.
Carmella the Famous Baker by Dr. Rinat R. Green
This heartwarming story is about a young girl with dyslexia who overcomes her struggles to achieve her dream of becoming a baker. It’s an inspiring tale of resilience and shows that small victories can build the confidence needed to overcome obstacles and exceed expectations.
Creating a Supportive Classroom
Incorporating these titles into your curriculum or classroom library can be a simple yet impactful way to create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. They serve as valuable resources for sparking meaningful conversations about neurodiversity, collaboration, and the unique strengths we all possess.
View this compiled a list of books (with direct links to the Learning Ally Audiobook SolutionⓇ catalog) to easily find and access these fantastic stories for all your students.
