Selecting Books for Kids
How can you tell if a book is the right reading level for your child? There are several different ways to work out whether books are at an appropriate level.
When trying to judge the reading difficulty of a book, keep these suggestions in mind:
- the ratio of pictures to words
- the difficulty of words
- the complexity of the story
Publishers sometimes print the grade or recommended age level on the back of the book or a book jacket. Keep in mind that if you select a book beyond a child’s reading level, it can be read to them now and later on by the child.
One of the easiest ways to determine if a book is at an appropriate reading level for your child is the ‘five finger rule.’ Have your child begin reading a chapter and put down one finger each time they struggle with a word. If they reach the end of the page before you get to five fingers, the book is written at a comfortable level for independent reading.
Choosing Books for Babies and Toddlers
Look for brightly colored pictures of simple objects to attract the attention of very young children. Board books and cloth books are excellent because they are very durable. Books with no words can encourage them to create their own stories. Simple texts and good rhythms are great to read aloud to little kids.
For recommended books, visit Books and Literacy Tips for Babies and Toddlers. Sign your child up for our 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program for extra motivation and fun.
Choosing Books for Preschoolers
Preschool children respond well to rhythm and effective repetition, so things like Mother Goose, nursery stories, and books that depict familiar objects and experiences are excellent choices. Features like pop-ups or lift-the-flap books are also great for this age group.
For recommended books, visit Books and Literacy Tips for Babies and Toddlers. Sign your child up for our 1000 Books Before Kindergarten program for extra motivation and fun.
Books for the Early School Years
Some children will learn to read before school, but most children learn in the early school years. Look for picture books with strong storylines and character development. When a child can read independently, “easy reader” books are an excellent option. As they can handle more complexity, the vocabulary should start to include some challenging words. There are a lot of nonfiction books published for this age group, so children can read about topics that interest them and satisfy their curiosity about complex subjects.
Books for Older Children and Tweens
Look for topics appropriate to the child’s particular personality traits and personal preferences. Perhaps an informational book or a chapter book of specific interest.
Books for Teens
Experienced readers may seek out classic books. Less enthusiastic readers might like lighter series fiction with cliff-ending chapters, which will encourage reading. Choose a variety of action and adventure titles, including fantasies. Many teens enjoy reading books that explore teenagers’ struggles and angst.
Suggested Book Selection Guides
100 best books for children by Anita Silvey
Best books for kids who (think they) hate to read: 125 books that will turn any kid into a lifelong reader by Laura Backes
The between the lions’ book for parents: everything you need to know to help your child learn to read by Linda K. Rath and Louise Kennedy
The New York times parent’s guide to the best books for children by Eden Ross Lipson
The Ultimate teen book guide, edited by Daniel Hahn & Leonie Flynn
Digital Resources
Book Adventure – Either Fiction or Non-Fiction Books, Fiction Books, Non-Fiction Books. Select up to 5 types of books you would like to read.
Children’s Book Council – This nonprofit trade organization is dedicated to encouraging literacy and the use and enjoyment of children’s books. Annual reading lists include Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12, and Children’s Choices. The CBC also sponsors Young People’s Poetry Week and Children’s Book Week.
Children’s Literature Web Guide
Family Reading Partnership: How to Choose a Children’s Book
Hoagies’ Gifted: Reading Levels of Children’s Books: How Can You Tell? – Provides details on a few of the most popular means for determining “reading level,” including Accelerated Reader, Fry Readability, and others.
Planet Esme – Includes a blog, book lists, guides, and much more.
Read Kiddo Read – This site from author James Patterson offers book reviews for four distinct reading levels: great illustrated books (ages 0 to 8), transitional books (ages six and up), pageturners (ages eight and up), and advanced reads (ages ten and up).
Scholastic BookWizard BookAlike – This site helps parents and teachers find children’s books for ages, grades, and reading levels. Type the book’s name into the search field and find other Scholastic books with similar stories.