As a disability confident employer we are passionate about publishing dyslexia-friendly books. These are books which are designed to make reading easier for individuals with dyslexia, a neurodivergent condition affecting reading and processing written language. According to the International Dyslexia Association, dyslexia affects 5-10% of the population, making accessibility in publishing crucial. A dyslexia-friendly book considers font choice, formatting, paper colour, and content structure to create a more inclusive reading experience. These books can also be helpful for someone who has suffered a stroke or brain injury.
This article explores the key characteristics of dyslexia-friendly books, how they differ from standard books, and best practice for authors.
Characteristics of a Dyslexia-Friendly Book
A dyslexia-friendly book is specifically designed to reduce reading barriers. It includes:
1. Font Choice
One of the most significant differences is the use of a dyslexia-friendly font. Common recommendations include:
Dyslexie Font – A typeface designed to reduce letter mirroring and flipping.
OpenDyslexic – A free font with heavier bottoms to help differentiate letters.
Arial, Verdana, Tahoma, and Century Gothic – Simple, sans-serif fonts with even spacing.
Research suggests that sans-serif fonts are easier to read for dyslexic individuals because they lack decorative strokes that can confuse letter recognition (Rello & Baeza-Yates, 2013).
Minimum font size: 12–14 pt to improve readability.
Increased letter, word, and line spacing (e.g., 1.5 line spacing) to prevent crowding.
Justified text is avoided, as it can create uneven word spacing, making reading harder.
2. Paper and Background Colour
Off-white, cream, or pastel-coloured paper instead of stark white, which reduces glare and visual stress (Wilkins, 2003).
Matte paper instead of glossy finishes to prevent reflections.
3. Simplified Layout
Left-aligned text, as justified text can cause uneven word spacing.
Short paragraphs and clear section breaks.
Large margins and no double-column layouts.
4. Use of Visuals
Visual aids, such as illustrations, diagrams, and icons, help break up text and reinforce meaning.
Avoiding busy backgrounds that interfere with text readability.
5. Structured Content
Clear chapter headings, numbered sections, and bullet points improve navigation.
Simple, direct sentence structures with minimal complex phrasing.
Multi-sensory support, such as audiobooks or interactive e-books, can enhance comprehension.
How Dyslexia-Friendly Books Differ from Standard Books
Best Practice for Publishing Dyslexia-Friendly Books
1. Consider a Dyslexia-Friendly Publisher
Discover Your Bounce Publishing publish dyslexia friendly books, with many of the essential features a standard in our publishing guidelines. We can also create your book with more dyslexia friendly features upon request.
2. Test with Dyslexic Readers
Beta testing with dyslexic individuals can help fine-tune readability. Organisations like the British Dyslexia Association (BDA) offer resources for testing accessibility.
3. Offer Multiple Formats
Print books with dyslexia-friendly formatting.
Consider creating audiobooks with human or AI narration.
E-books offer with customisable fonts and background colour options.
4. Follow Accessibility Guidelines
Refer to resources such as the British Dyslexia Association’s Style Guide or the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Accessibility Guidelines for inclusive publishing.
Conclusion
Publishing dyslexia-friendly books is an essential step toward making literature accessible to a wider audience. By adjusting font styles, spacing, colour contrast, and content presentation, publishers and authors can create books that cater to dyslexic readers while maintaining engaging storytelling. However you chose to publish your book, integrating these best practices fosters inclusivity in the literary world. It can also open your writing up to so many more people. Dyslexia friendly books present an easier reading experience for everyone.
Find out more about our publishing services here
References
• International Dyslexia Association. (2021). Definition of Dyslexia. Retrieved from www.dyslexiaida.org
• Rello, L., & Baeza-Yates, R. (2013). Good fonts for dyslexia. ACM Transactions on Accessible Computing, 5(3), 1-12.
• Wilkins, A. (2003). Reading Through Colour: How Coloured Filters Can Reduce Reading Difficulty, Eye Strain, and Headaches. Wiley.
• British Dyslexia Association. (2022). Dyslexia Style Guide. Retrieved from www.bdadyslexia.org.uk
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