Will the book be an interesting and enjoyable read? Think about text features such as the title, table of contents, back or inside cover synopsis, illustrations/photographs to determine if the book will interest your child! Genre is important to consider as well.
Use the "Five Finger Rule" to determine if the book is an appropriate level for the reader:
- Have the reader open up to any page in the book and begin reading.
- Hold one finger up for each "tricky" word that the reader encounters.
- If there are 0-2 fingers up, this book may be too easy for the reader.
- 3-4 fingers up, this book is probably a "Just Right" for for the reader.
- 5 fingers up, it's likely this book will be frustrating for the child to read.
Consider Read Alouds: If your child is interested in a book, but it doesn't pass the "Five Finger Test" consider selecting the book to read aloud and discuss with your family. Kids (and adults!) of all ages benefit from listening to books read aloud and having rich conversations about text!
A special thank you to our librarian Rachel Small and her amazing team of parent volunteers for organizing the Scholastic Book Fair! Check out Rachel's blog post about the book fair .
