Parent Resources: Finding the Right Book

Several parents have asked about how to find the right level books for their children. As the parent of one thriving reader and one reluctant reader, I have wondered the same thing: how do I find a book that is not too easy, not too hard, and not too mature for my child? Here are a couple of resources I have found:

• Kids Book Series website. This site sorts hundreds (maybe thousands!) of series books by reading level. It also allows you to search books by age appropriateness. The great thing about series books is they provide a longer reading experience and readers are able to establish more of a connection with the characters. In addition, readers don't struggle to figure out what to read next. Series are especially good for ELL readers, as they become familiar with the vocabulary that the author uses, and that familiarity helps increase success and understanding with each book that they read in the series.
• Reading Beyond page on Children's Book Council website. This page offers 75 books selected by reading experts that are good for kids who "read at an advanced level and are seeking more challenging, but still age-appropriate, books." One list is for K-1st graders reading at a 3rd grade level; one list is for 2nd-3rd graders reading at a 5th grade level; and one list is for 4th-5th graders reading at a 7th grade level. We have many of the books here in the Bach Library, and I will work on building this collection.
• Books for Reluctant Readers page on Common Sense Media site. I use Common Sense Media all the time for guidance on what movies and TV shows are appropriate for my own kids. This page is great because it allows you to sort by the age of your reluctant reader, plus it gives you a summary, reviews, and possibly questionable content for each book.