How do you find the right next book for your child? 

How do you challenge kids, but keep reading fun?

Does age-appropriateness refer to vocabulary? Or to subject matter?

So many questions!

And no simple answers.

However, Laura Simeon, a young reader’s editor for Kirkus Reviews, offers some suggestions in her recent article, What Makes a Book ‘Age Appropriate’?

Here’s a quote:
 

Reading … is always about what readers bring to books. The same work can kick-start life-changing insights for one reader or, for another, serve as light entertainment (and there is absolutely nothing wrong with reading purely for fun and escape). Books can be upsetting and confusing—but so can real life. Unlike real life, readers can skim, skip, take breaks, and walk away. One important function of story has always been to vicariously work through strong emotions as catharsis or preparation for reality.

In her column, Simeon also compares the way five pairs of books address topics such as divorce, race, and body image from middle-grade and young-adult perspectives.

I hope her guidance helps you pick the next book for your child.

Thanks to my friend and colleague Dana Gaskin Wenig, who recommended the article. 

By the way, Dana will soon be writing a column for us on great children’s books, one per month. 

I can’t wait to share. 

 

Jeff and Bob …

 

… who believe that reading with kids can change the world for the better.