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Some people with dyslexia might feel like their reading and writing differences mean that they’re not naturally suited to a profession like being an author. Nothing could be further from the truth! From detectives and secret agents to inspiring school stories, children's authors with dyslexia are creating wonderful worlds that children of all ages will enjoy diving into. Here are five of our favourites!
- Octavia Spencer
Oscar-wining actress Octavia Spencer is more widely acclaimed for her performances on the silver screen, but she’s also the author of several children’s books that all adventure-lovers will adore. Her Randi Rhodes, Ninja Detective series is full of mayhem and mystery, and is inspired by the Encyclopedia Brown detective books that she credits with developing her love of reading as a child.
- Dav Pilkey
Dav Pilkey has long been an advocate for dyslexia and ADHD awareness, and often talks about his own experiences with both at his book readings and school visits. You might know him as the author of the New York Times bestseller Dog Man, or even the well-loved Captain Underpants series- if you’ve got a young reader who loves to laugh, these hilarious stories make the perfect addition to their library.
- Tom McLaughlin
Upon hearing the phrase ‘international super spy’, most of us don’t think of a thirteen year old called Kevin, but that’s exactly who the hero of Tom McLaughlin’s The Accidental Secret Agent turns out to be! Full of humour and intrigue as well as puns and action, McLaughlin feels that people should never be afraid to talk about being dyslexic, and encourages them to be creative without thinking of dyslexia as a boundary.
- Patricia Polacco
Thank You, Mr Falker was Patricia Polacco’s first novel, a semi-autobiographical narrative that tells the story of a student with dyslexia who’s inspired by a teacher who helps them realise their full potential. She’s now written and illustrated dozens of books including a sequel, Junkyard Wonders, and excels at creating stories full of realism and whimsy that readers will love to get lost in.
- Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver
Better known as the Fonz from Happy Days, Henry Winkler was diagnosed with dyslexia in his 30s and from there went on to create the acclaimed Hank Zipzer series with co-author Lin Oliver. Hank is quirky, relatable hero who also has dyslexia, and he stars in almost twenty laugh out loud narratives that will become a firm favourite with any budding pranksters.
