I’m trying to get my 15yo brother to read a book with my husband and I this summer. He has a learning disability and hates reading because it’s hard for him, so I’ve chosen *And Then There Were None* by Agatha Christie. It seems like a good starter book for him and is rated a 6th grade reading level. I have bought us each copies, but I’ve seen online that the beginning is slow. I’m the type to push through books, so I don’t mind, but I’m worried it will bore my brother (and my husband who is joining us).
Any recommendations for an I-can’t-put-this-down mystery/thriller novel between 200-400 pages, and 6th-9th grade reading level?
Thank you in advance! Peace and blessings <3
by Klutzy-Grape2415
1 Comment
That Christie pick is solid but you’re right about the slow start – might lose him before it gets good. For something that grabs right away, maybe try something with shorter chapters and immediate action. The Westing Game could work really well – it’s technically middle grade but the mystery is genuinely clever and has this game-like puzzle element that keeps you turning pages. Plus it’s got multiple characters with secrets which creates natural cliffhangers
Another route might be something more modern with a teen protagonist so he can relate better to the main character. Those tend to have snappier pacing too since they’re written for shorter attention spans. The key is finding something where each chapter ends on a mini cliffhanger rather than just advancing the plot slowly
Maybe hit up your local library and let him flip through a few options to see what catches his eye? Sometimes the cover or first page can make all the difference for reluctant readers