I am going to venture into 'tosser' mode now so bear with.....
If people can't be bothered to invest in their playing and have the attention span of a bean-bag, why are they trying to improve their playing with theory books? These books are not dull, they are just a little demanding and take a little time to absord, like learning any new language. Learning anything that is demanding is going to push a student and, if s/he fails after one session of basic theory because it is a bit dry, then s/he ain't going to make it in the long run. Personally, I would start with discussing basic concepts with a friend who is willing to tell you about intervals, basic chord theory etc. Once it starts to make sense, the rest becomes less dry.
And learning to read music brings it to life something rotten....