5 Spec-tacular books to help your children love their glasses

Books are a powerful way to help them feel confident about their glasses, teaching them to embrace the strength and clarity that comes with their unique look, and showing how the power of sight opens up new worlds.

However, not every child is as lucky. In many countries where Orbis works, children don't have access to the eye care they need. For some, the world is blurry and out of reach simply because they can't afford glasses. By sharing stories that celebrate glasses, we not only help children feel proud of their vision, but we also raise awareness of the challenges many children face around the world where access to eye care is limited.

Here are 5 spec-tacular books to help your child love their glasses – and to remind us of how important it is to support every child to have access to eye care.

The Shortsighted Giraffe – A.H. Benjamin

Age range: 4-7

Gerald the giraffe has trouble seeing and often finds himself in funny and frustrating situations. But with the help of his friends, Gerald learns that glasses aren’t something to hide, but a tool to help him thrive. This touching story teaches kids that their uniqueness is something to embrace, even when faced with challenges. It’s a perfect read to encourage children to feel proud of their glasses.

Harry Potter - J. K. Rowling

Age range: 9+

Harry Potter’s glasses are one of the most iconic features of his character. Held together with tape, for a short time, until Hermoine fixes them, they represent his humble, ordinary beginnings and his extraordinary destiny. For many children, Harry’s glasses show that wearing glasses isn’t an obstacle – it’s just part of their unique journey. Like Harry, they can embrace their glasses as a tool that helps them see the world more clearly, while knowing they are perfect just as they are.

Douglas, You Need Glasses! – Ged Adamson

Age range: 3-7

Douglas the dog has poor eyesight but doesn’t realize it – until he gets his new pair of glasses. From mistaking a squirrel for a leaf to stepping in wet cement, Douglas’s playful mix-ups highlight how much glasses can change our view of the world.

When he finally gets his glasses, everything becomes clear, and he feels like a new dog. This heartwarming story shows how glasses can transform our experience of the world, and how seeing clearly is something worth celebrating.

We Love Our Glasses: Learn All About Why Some Children Need Glasses – Stephanie Lipsey-Liu

Age range: 3-12

This book explains why some children need glasses and how different eye conditions are corrected by them. With accessible language and illustrations, it’s an excellent resource for children to understand their vision and feel good about wearing glasses. It’s not just about looking cool – it’s about seeing better and living life to the fullest. A perfect read for kids to embrace their glasses with pride.

Where’s Wally? – Martin Handford

Age range: All ages

Wally’s glasses are a key part of his character in the Where’s Wally? series. As your child hunts for him among the detailed illustrations, they’ll discover that glasses are cool, adventurous, and even a little bit magical. These books teach kids that wearing glasses can be part of a fun, exciting journey – and a key to unlocking endless possibilities.

While glasses are something to celebrate here in the UK, children in many parts of the world don’t have the privilege of clear vision. At Orbis, we’re working hard to end preventable blindness and ensure that every child, no matter where they live, has access to the eye care they need.

Your donations can help change lives. In the countries where we work, children often miss out on education and opportunities because they can't access the glasses or treatment they need. By supporting Orbis, you can help provide life-changing eye exams, glasses, and medical care to children who need it most.

Together, we can ensure that all children, everywhere, have the chance to see the world clearly and embrace their future with confidence. Your contribution can make a lasting impact – not just for a child, but for entire communities.