Teens who don’t like to read just haven’t found the right book yet! With short, engaging plots, Orca Anchor books can help build up reading confidence and skill in teens aged 12 and up. These relatable novels include enhanced features, such as a highly-readable font and cream paper, to increase reading accessibility for dyslexic and other striving readers.
From mini rom-coms to captivating thrillers, Orca Anchor books are perfect for teens who say they don’t like to read!
Kat vs. Dogs
In this cute mini romcom, seventeen-year-old Kat must overcome her fear of dogs if she hopes to have a chance with her new dog-loving crush.
“Dog stories are widely popular and this one, with its accessible format, should be an easy pitch, even for less-enthusiastic readers.” —School Library Journal
No Brainer
In this accessible novel, Liv finds herself at the center of a feminist movement when she’s teased and reprimanded for not wearing a bra to school. No Brainer explores themes of dress codes, body diversity and confidence with humor and sensitivity.
⭐️ “Celebrates a girl’s determination to be comfortable with her body, defy double standards, and stand up for her beliefs. Fearless and filled with jubilant moxie; a must-read.” — Kirkus Reviews, starred review
A Dangerous Game
This retelling of the classic short story “The Most Dangerous Game” by Richard Connell brings a modern teen into the clutches of an unhinged billionaire to explore the depths of our own humanity.
“The book has all the shock value and tension of the original but with contemporary technological updates. A gripping, fast-paced, thoroughly enjoyable read.” —Kirkus Reviews
Busted
Sixteen-year-old Jonah is in hot water with his hockey teammates after filming a play fight in the locker room. With realistic portrayals of a teenage hockey team, this short read is relatable to athletes and will appeal to sports fans.
“Thought-provoking, engaging, and highly accessible.” —Kirkus Reviews
Cheat Code
In this short novel for teen readers, high school senior Max gets blackmailed into corporate sabotage by the superintelligent AI he uses to cheat on an English essay. Written fully in text messages, this story brings a modern twist to an epistolary novel.
“A wild romp…McIsaac successfully ramps up the tension while keeping the pace moving throughout the book. A compelling, fast-paced adventure that will appeal to reluctant readers.” —Kirkus Reviews
Just Kickin’ It
In this novel about morality, sixteen-year-old Jesse wonders how far he’ll go for a cool new pair of sneakers when an older teen entices him into petty theft. With its setting based on Toronto, Just Kickin’ It shows relatable life for teens who live in an urban neighbourhood.
“A reluctant reader-friendly story with heart, realistic tensions, and meaningful messages to ponder.” —Kirkus Reviews
Under Fire
In this accessible novel for teen readers, sixteen-year-old Poppy and her brother are home alone when a nearby wildfire builds and threatens to burn down their farm. Under Fire deftly explores family dynamics as well as themes of facing fears, survival and teamwork.
“The action is compelling…a fast-paced, exciting survival tale for reluctant readers.” —Kirkus Reviews
Ghost Queen
A perfect read for teen fans of suspense, Ghost Queen follows teen vlogger Malika as she risks spending the night in a haunted fort in the hopes of meeting the famous ghost of a cursed Indian princess.
“The connection to an actual legend and site in India enriches the story and heightens the fear factor. An entertaining ghostly romp that will draw in reluctant readers.” —Kirkus Reviews