Book Lists
Please visit my Virtual Libraries located on the Classwork page of my Google Classroom! Here are some other great reading choices...
All-Time Favorites!
E-Books on Epic! Compiled by Mrs. Akgun
Amazon Books by Level Compiled by Mrs. Akgun
Bookfinder: Enter your child's age and interests to see a wealth of recommendations.
Series by Level: When you finish one book, the next one to read is a no-brainer!
Newbery Winners: You can't go wrong here.
Scholastic Gold: Some of the best 5th+ books!
Nonfiction/Informational Books
Kids should read both fiction (stories) and nonfiction (informational) from a young age. Nonfiction texts present unique challenges - headings, vocabulary, charts, timelines, etc. Background knowledge plays a big role. For example, a child who goes fishing may be able to read a book about fishing easily, even if it far above his or her "level," and vice versa. Remind them to visualize unfamiliar and abstract concepts!
Unique Topics
Books with Diverse Characters
A book can act like a mirror or a window. When a book acts like a mirror, we recognize parts of ourselves in the characters and our identity can be validated by their experiences. When a book acts like a window, we glimpse what life might be like for people who are different from ourselves, increasing our empathy. Children can be taught to seek out both.
Anti-Racism Books
Books about Social-Emotional Skills
Graphic Novel Lists
Don't snub graphic novels and comic books! They are appropriate for all ages and can have just as much substance. For example, El Deafo is the memoir of a young girl who gets a hearing aid, Maus is a graphic novel for teenagers about the holocaust, and classics like Anne of Green Gables have been made into graphic novels. Just like nutrition, a "balanced diet" of genres is best. See more info here & here.
High Interest - Low Readability Books for Upper Elementary
Sometimes big kids who are struggling readers have trouble finding books that are at their reading level, but also interesting to them. Here are some great suggestions!
Other Useful Websites
Biblionasium: Like GoodReads for kids! Make a free account.
If You Like This Then You Might Like That: "Read alike" lists give recommendations based on books you like.
Common Sense Media: Not sure if the content of a book or movie is appropriate for your child's age? Find out here.
One of the most important ways to help a reader develop is to provide plenty of books at the appropriate level. As one website says, "If a book is too hard, your child becomes frustrated and discouraged; a book that's too easy is boring. A shoe salesman doesn't offer you an 'age 9' or 'grade 4' shoe; there's no such thing. Rather, he measures your kid's foot to find his individual size."
It is recommended that kids have opportunities to read books that are comfortable independently, and books that are a bit of a stretch with an adult. And, of course, the most important thing is that reading time at home is fun. Picture books or well-loved family favorites can always be enjoyed by all ages.
Additional tips about choosing books:
- Public libraries are not usually organized by book level, but the children's librarian may be able to direct you to books at a specific "guided reading level."
- Encourage your child to talk about books with their friends, just like adults! Model asking others about what they're reading and why they like it.
- Let your child's interests lead the way. For example, if they like football, try stories about football, books with tips for playing, or biographies about famous players.
- Some "reluctant readers" get hooked by books based on movies or shows. Or, take inspiration from vacations. Going to Disney? Find books with Disney characters or a biography of Walt. Or, "research" together using a kid-friendly guide.
- Some children who initially aren't interested in a book get hooked by one simple thing - read the first few pages to them, bringing the story to life with your voice.
- Not sure if a book is at his/her level? Teach children to choose books by first studying the cover and the blurb on the back, then to read the first few pages. If they can visualize what is happening, only miss a couple words, and read it smoothly, then it is probably appropriate. If they can't visualize what is happening, miss several words, or sound very choppy, then it it too hard.
Printable Books
These books are "decodable," meaning that they focus on a specific spelling pattern. They are designed to help kids practice decoding (sounding out words). You can print, cut, and staple them, then have your child read them to you. You can ask them to search for and circle certain sounds or sight words, and they can color the pictures. For children who are intimidated at first, you might take turns reading the pages. Reading the same book multiple times (perhaps by reading to multiple family members) can increase their fluency and confidence!
Email me if you are wondering which set is currently a good fit for your child!
Very Beginners (short vowels with common letters and sight words)
Click here: Start with Book 1 and progress through to meet all the characters. Lots of repetition and fun!
Short Vowels (taught in kindergarten and beginning first grade)
