“Knees” by Vanita Oelschlager is a heartfelt picture book that offers an honest, encouraging look at what it means to live and learn with dyslexia. Written for children just beginning to understand their learning differences, it blends empathy, humor, and empowerment into a story a parent and child can read together in one sitting.
What is “Knees” about?
“Knees” by Vanita Oelschlager is told from the perspective of a young boy named Louis. Louis knows he’s not the best at reading or spelling, but he also knows that doesn’t mean he isn’t smart. He’s funny, friendly, and full of personality, and through his voice readers are guided through the everyday challenges and triumphs of being a kid with dyslexia.
Those moments will feel familiar to a lot of families: mixing up letters, feeling different at school, and learning to use your strengths to shine. The illustrations by Joe Rossi are bright, warm, and kid-friendly, matching the book’s light tone and positive message. Because the story stays grounded in one child’s real experience, it reads less like a lesson and more like a conversation with a friend who gets it.
Why does “Knees” matter for dyslexic kids?
What sets “Knees” apart is its balance between simplicity and sincerity. It doesn’t try to explain dyslexia in clinical terms—it gives children the emotional reassurance they need instead. The message Louis carries is plain and powerful: you’re not alone, you’re not broken, and you can do great things.
The book avoids pity and overly technical explanations and focuses instead on self-acceptance, resilience, and discovering your own path. Near the end, Louis even lists famous people with dyslexia—a small touch that shows children learning differently doesn’t limit your success. For a child who has started to feel that reading struggles say something about how smart they are, that reframing can matter more than any single phonics drill. It’s the kind of confidence-building that pairs naturally with the day-to-day work of an explicit, structured reading program.
Who is this book best for?
“Knees” is written for early readers and the adults who support them. It works especially well for:
- Children ages 5–9 who are dyslexic or have similar learning differences.
- Parents looking for a gentle, affirming book to begin conversations about dyslexia.
- Teachers, tutors, and therapists introducing the topic of learning differences in inclusive classrooms.
If your child has just been identified as dyslexic, this is a kind first step—something to read together before you dive into the practical side of intervention. For more titles like it, our roundup of books for kids with dyslexia gathers stories that send the same affirming message.
How should parents read it with their child?
Because “Knees” is a picture book, it shines as a read-aloud. Let your child sit close, look at Joe Rossi’s illustrations, and listen rather than decode—this isn’t a book to make them sound out. Reading aloud takes the pressure off and lets the story’s message land without the friction that text on a page can create for a struggling reader.
As you read, pause where Louis describes mixing up letters or feeling different, and ask your child if any of that feels familiar. Those small openings can lead to the honest conversations that help a child feel understood. If you’re looking for more ways to talk through these feelings, our guide on talking about dyslexia with your child offers concrete language to use. And when you’re ready to move from reassurance to instruction, our Dyslexia Intervention Curriculum walks parents through the explicit, structured reading practice that builds real skills—no teaching experience required.
Is “Knees” worth reading?
“Knees” is an excellent read-aloud that celebrates the uniqueness of every learner. It sends a powerful message in simple words: dyslexia may make reading harder, but it doesn’t define who you are. That’s a truth a five-year-old can hold onto, and one a parent can return to on the hard days.
At Apricot Tree Academy, we love recommending “Knees” to families just starting their dyslexia journey. It’s a heartfelt reminder that learning differently can lead to growing differently—and often, beautifully. If your child connects with affirming stories like this one, you might also enjoy our review of “Thank You, Mr. Falker”, another picture book about a child who learns that struggling to read says nothing about how bright they are. Pair the right story with steady, structured practice, and you give your child both the heart and the skills to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote the book "Knees"?
"Knees" was written by Vanita Oelschlager and illustrated by Joe Rossi. It is a picture book told from the perspective of a young boy named Louis who has dyslexia.
What age group is "Knees" best for?
"Knees" is best for children ages 5–9 who are dyslexic or have similar learning differences. It also works well for parents, teachers, tutors, and therapists introducing the topic of learning differences.
What is the main message of "Knees"?
The book's core message is that dyslexia may make reading harder, but it doesn't define who you are. It focuses on self-acceptance, resilience, and the reassurance that a child is not alone and not broken.
Does "Knees" explain dyslexia in clinical terms?
No. Instead of clinical or technical explanations, "Knees" tells one boy's story and gives children emotional reassurance. Near the end, Louis lists famous people with dyslexia to show that learning differently doesn't limit success.
Is "Knees" a good first book after a dyslexia diagnosis?
Yes. Its gentle, affirming tone makes it a good way to begin conversations about dyslexia with a young child. It pairs well with structured reading instruction once you're ready to start building skills.