Aaron Slater, Illustrator

Andrea Beaty and
David Roberts

AARON wants to be a writer… but how do you tell your story when words are nothing more than a squiggle?

The most common of all neuro-cognitive disorders, dyslexia affects about 20 per cent of the population and represents between 80 and 90 per cent of all those faced with learning problems… so say hello to Aaron Slater, a hero for all dyslexic youngsters!

This bright, colourful and quietly powerful book – printed in the Dyslexie typeface specially designed for dyslexics – is the fifth book in Andrea Beaty and David Roberts’ outstanding Questioneers picture book series.

Questions and problem-solving lie at the heart of this enchanting and educational series which is beautifully written by Beaty (pictured below) and gloriously illustrated by Roberts, and features stories and adventures with the irrepressibly curious Questioneers, including Iggy Peck, Rosie Revere, Ada Twist and Sofia Valdez.

And this new outing – ideal for young readers aged five and over – was inspired by Roberts’ own struggles with dyslexia, and the life and work of African American painter, naturalist, muralist and graphic artist Aaron Douglas who was an important figure in the literary and artistic movement of the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s and 30s.

Aaron Slater loves listening to stories and dreams of one day writing them himself. But when it comes to reading, the letters just look like squiggles to him, and it soon becomes clear he struggles more than his school friends. When his teacher asks each child in the class to write a story, Aaron can’t get a single word down. He is sure his dream of being a storyteller is out of reach… until inspiration strikes, and Aaron finds his gift for illustration enables him to spin a tale in a way that is uniquely his. Aaron Slater, Illustrator delivers an uplifting tale about the power of art, finding your voice, and telling your story even when you feel like you’re out of step with other children of your age.

Beaty’s empowering and imaginative story – written in child-friendly rhyming verse – is perfectly paired with Roberts’ richly detailed, empathetic and heartwarming artwork, and speaks loudly and reassuringly to youngsters who are struggling with the everyday challenges of dyslexia.
(Abrams Books for Young Readers, hardback, £12.99)