Book Review: Hank Zipzer: Niagra Falls, or Does It?

Book Review: Hank Zipzer: Niagara Falls, or Does It?

Are you looking for a fun and relatable chapter book for a young dyslexic reader? If so, Hank Zipzer: Niagara Falls, or Does It? by Henry Winkler and Lin Oliver is a fantastic choice!

This is the first book in the Hank Zipzer series. It introduces Hank, a bright and imaginative student who also happens to be dyslexic. From the start, Hank’s humor and creativity make him a lovable and engaging character.

When Hank’s teacher assigns a personal narrative, he feels stuck. He struggles to get his ideas onto paper. However, instead of giving up, Hank takes a different path. He uses his creativity and turns the assignment into a hilarious classroom presentation. As a result, his classmates and teacher are surprised and entertained.

Throughout the story, readers follow Hank’s school adventures. They see his daily challenges and small victories. These moments feel real—especially for students with dyslexia. The story blends humor, heart, and honesty in a way that kids can understand and enjoy.

Why We Recommend This Book

This book is a great pick for elementary-aged kids. It features a character they can relate to and a story full of fun and warmth. Best of all, the Hank Zipzer series is written with dyslexic readers in mind. The chapters are manageable, and the stories are engaging from start to finish.

As a parent, I truly enjoyed reading this book with my children. We laughed out loud, rooted for Hank, and talked about what it means to learn in different ways. Because of that experience, I highly recommend this book to families, educators, and tutors. It’s especially helpful for those supporting children with dyslexia.

Want more suggestions? Check out our list of great books for dyslexic readers!

Explore Our Dyslexia Intervention Program

At Apricot Tree Academy, we believe every student deserves to succeed. That’s why we use an evidence-based, multisensory structured literacy approach. This method gives students the support they need to grow and thrive in reading and beyond.

If you’re seeking an effective dyslexia intervention program, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can support your child’s path to literacy success