The Right Book at the Right Time

By: Allison Kenney

What books will my child understand and enjoy? Children progress through the developmental stages as they become better readers. These stages are not determined by the child’s age or grade level however, the stage is determined by the child’s experiences, understanding and attitude. Follow these step by step guides to determine what books are best for your child.

Developing Readers (approximate ages between 5 and 7): The children are acquiring basic book knowledge and learning that illustrations and books tell a story. Beginning books for this level should have natural language, predictable text and clear pictures that follow the story. Some books in this category include:

Cat in the Hat – Dr. Seuss
Sheep in a Jeep – Nancy Shaw
We’re Going on a Bear Hunt - Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury
From Head to Toe - Eric Carle

Early Readers (approximate ages 6 and 8): Conventional reading is occurring and children are developing strategies for reading. Children at this age are able to read on their own with appropriate selected books. Some books in this category include:

Junie B. Jones – Barbara Park
Magic Tree House books – Mary Pope Osborne
Amelia Bedelia books – Peggy Parish and Lynn Sweat
Berenstain Bears – Stan and Jan Berenstain

Transitional Readers (approximate ages 7 and 9): These readers have gained enough control over their reading that they are independent and fluent. They use illustrations to gain additional meaning in the text. They enjoy playing with words, humor and poetry. Late transitional readers are starting to enjoy non fiction books. Some books in this category include:

The Giving Tree – Shel Silverstein
Oh Yuck! The Encyclopedia of Everything Nasty – Joy Massoff
The Polar Express – Chris Van Allsburg
Walter the Farting Dog – William Kotzwinkle, Glen Murray and Audrey Coleman

Self-extending Readers (approximate ages 8-11): These students have systems and codes in place for learning. They are now reading to learn as well as for entertainment. They enjoy encountering different genres and are developing a new vocabulary. They enjoy reading books that help them make connections to their world. Some books in this category include:

The Daring Book for Girls – Andrea Buchanan and Miriam Peskowitz
Guinness World Records By Guinness World Records
Diary of a Wimpy Kid - Jeff Kinnney
Everything Kids Cookbook – Sandra Nissenberg

Advanced Readers (approximate ages 11 and higher): These students go beyond the text to form their own interpretations. These readers sustain interest and understanding. They are acquiring more and more vocabulary and enjoy a rich selection from all genres. Some books in this category include:

Redwall – Brian Jacques
Twilight – Stephenie Meyers
Harry Potter = J.K. Rolling
The Hobbit – J.R.R. Tolkien

Article by:

Allison Kenney has been a literacy coach in Florida for four years. She teaches elementary and middle school teachers how to help all students succeed. She is also an independent associate for the most intelligent home based business in the world. Check our the website at: www.ourbookobsession.com Online bookstore available at: www.bookwise.com/bookobsession

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