Reluctant reader recommendations

[Huffalumps]

Hi, I have an 11yo girl who is a reluctant reader. I've offered her plenty to read over the years. The only ones she's read with pleasure is the Lottie Brooks series. Waterstones only seem to stock teen romance which doesn't light her up. Doesn't like orcs/fantasy, adventure or 'long books'.

For context, she's recently been flagged at school as behind in English which may explain her reluctance to read. It's been a surprise as we are a bookworm family. Plus Y6 teacher reported she was fine. There were however clearly signs in hindsight. Teacher blamed DD for deliberately playing up in English (it was never clear she was) so never picked up she was actually struggling somewhat. Then she failed her English SATS but the school said they were surprised. She is verbally confident and articulate which may explain the disconnect.

I'm keen to re engage DD with reading. Any recommendations?

My DD loved Sharon Creech at that age - take a look at Walk Two Moons which is excellent (though heartbreaking in places, be warned). Also Louis Sachar - Someday Angeline. Morris Gleitzman also writes so well - try Grace.

Ah my kids both loved Holes so I will try her with Someday Angeline. Thank you

She does prefer a female protagonist so I'll hunt through the Creech books. Perhaps I'll start with walk 2 moons, see how she finds it. Perhaps the library has a copy. She tends judge on the cover 🤦. Once she's decided against a book it's hard to get her to reappraise 😊

Ruby Holler is another one by Sharon Creech - I think the protagonists are twins (girl and boy, early teens) so that might be worth exploring. Sharon Creech's stories all have a real heart - I think she's a wonderful writer.

Also there's a part 2 of Holes - Small Steps, might be worth a look.