Ayr bookshop Flirtatious Fiction is stocking dyslexia-friendly romance books and coloured reading overlays in a move designed to make reading more accessible.
The independent business has introduced the items for readers who may find some standard book formats difficult to follow. The dyslexia-friendly editions use changes to the way text is presented, while the overlays are intended for people who find coloured backgrounds helpful when reading.
What is available in the shop
Flirtatious Fiction currently stocks dyslexia-friendly editions of A Court of Thorns and Roses, Collide and Spiral. The shop also has coloured reading overlays available for customers who may find them useful in reducing visual stress.
Owner Fiona Clark Northcote said the content of the books has not been changed. Instead, the adaptations focus on features such as font, spacing, layout and the presentation of the page.
“The content of the books is exactly the same as the standard editions; it’s the presentation of the text that has been adapted to make the reading experience more accessible.”
She said the editions provide the same stories in a format that may suit more readers, allowing customers to choose an option that feels easier or more comfortable to follow.
New Ayr business wants to expand its selection
Flirtatious Fiction was opened in June this year by husband and wife team Fiona and Ewan Clark Northcote. The shop specialises in romance books, including romantasy titles.
Fiona said making different formats available was important because reading should remain something people can enjoy. She hopes the range of dyslexia-friendly romance titles will grow as more editions are published.
“For me, the biggest reason these books are important is that I want reading to feel as accessible as possible.”
She added that the shop wants readers to be able to find the romance books they are discussing and looking forward to, while continuing to expand its selection as suitable editions become available.
“I’d love to see more romance titles released in dyslexia-friendly formats, and as more become available, we’d absolutely love to keep expanding the selection in the shop.”