Ultimate List of Decodable Readers in 2023 + FREE SOR Guide!!

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Are you on the hunt for the ultimate list of decodable readers? Look no further! As a reading teacher, you know that providing students with the right reading material is key to helping them progress in their literacy skills. Decodable readers are a fantastic tool to support reading development, providing students with text that emphasizes phonics and allows them to practice decoding and blending sounds.

In this blog post, we’ll explore what decodable readers are, why they’re so beneficial, the different types available, and our top picks for decodable readers for your classroom. Let’s get started!

What is a Decodable Reader?

Decodable readers are texts that are written with phonemically regular words that follow common phonics patterns and can be read without too much effort. They are ideal for phonics practice, early readers, and for reading intervention. Because the text is controlled, they usually follow a scope and sequence and are very effective for teaching readers how to decode words.

Why Use Decodable Readers

Decodable readers are a great tool for emerging readers who are just starting to learn phonics and decoding skills. They are also an effective tool for practicing new phonics skills with readers of all levels. Here are some reasons why you should consider using decodable readers in your classroom:

  • They provide a systematic approach to phonics instruction which helps reinforce phonics patterns and letter-sound correspondences.
  • They help students build confidence in their reading abilities.
  • They reinforce phonics skills that students are learning in class.
  • They offer students opportunities to practice their reading skills independently.
  • They can help struggling readers catch up to their peers.
  • Can be used as a guided reading tool for specific decoding skills, such as long vowels or ending sounds.
  • Strengthens orthographic memory & reading fluency.

Decodable readers are particularly effective for students who struggle with reading or who are learning English as a second language. By providing students with controlled texts that are tailored to their phonics abilities or focus on a specific skill, you can help them make progress and improve their reading skills.

In addition, decodable readers can be a helpful tool for differentiating instruction in your classroom. By using a variety of decodable readers at different levels, you can provide all of your students with texts that are appropriate for their reading abilities.

Read more: Decodable Readers vs Leveled Readers

decodable books with pictures

Types of Decodable Readers

There are 4 types of decodable readers that you can use:

  • Decodable Books With Pictures
  • Decodable Chapter Books
  • Decodable Passages
  • Printable Decodable Texts

Which type of decodable texts you use depends on the level and age of your students. Some are very beginner and basic, perfect for early readers, while others are of higher interest for older students.

Best Decodable Readers List

Now that we understand the importance of using decodable readers and the different types available, let’s dive into some of the best options out there. Here are some of the best decodable readers available:

close up of 2 pages inside a decodable book from Charge Mommy Books
Charge Mommy Books

Decodable Books With Pictures

These are the beginner type of books with lots of pictures and a sentence or a few on each page. Some of these books are more basic than others.

These usually follow the sequence of a phonics program to ensure students are only reading text that focuses on the target skill and reviews what they already know.

Even with older students, these types of books can be used for intervention.

Charge Mommy Books decodable readers laying on table
Charge Mommy Books

Decodable Chapter Books

These decodable books offer a little more challenge. They have fewer pictures, and sentences are a little longer.

These are typically higher interest and great for older students who are working on their decoding skills. Even advanced level students can benefit from challenging themselves with decodable chapter books at times!

Decodable Passages

Decodable passages target specific skills and can be found online or bought from the store. These are a great addition to any reading program, but they aren’t necessarily decodable books that students read on their own – instead, they are used more as interventions during class time. You should choose a passage that focuses on the target skills or that reviews several skills.

decodable passage - printable decodable text

Printable Decodable Texts

These are online options for printing out decodable texts and passages. These range from extremely easy (beginner) to more challenging (advanced). Some of these are also free.

Bottom Line

Using decodable readers is a great way to help students learn how to decode words and increase their reading comprehension. With so many different types of decodable books and texts available, it can be difficult to know which one will work best for your class. 

I hope that this list has helped you find decodable readers to use in your classroom. Stay tuned for my post on how to use decodable texts coming soon!


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2 Comments

  1. Thank you for this informative post! One can never have enough decodables, lol.
    I would love to add that I am currently using decodable books from Express Readers and find them really enjoyable for my students! Author Elise Lovejoy has been absolutely phenomenal to work with as well offering such personal service. Check them out at expressreaders.org.

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