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Perspectives

What Makes a Book ‘Age Appropriate’?

BY Laura Simeon • April 27, 2022

Reviews of books for young people in trade journals conclude with suggested age ranges. As battles over so-called “inappropriate” content in kids’ and teen books heat up—debates that crystallize conflicts over changing societal values—school librarians nationwide report that some administrators are incorrectly treating these age recommendations as prescriptive and using them to craft policies that override the expertise of library professionals and limit students’ access to books.

By contrast, I’ve sometimes seen parents misunderstand reviews’ age ranges as purely signaling the difficulty of the vocabulary, which can lead to pushing children with advanced literacy skills to read material aimed at those with more years of life experience and developmentally different social-emotional needs.

Underlying these contrasting attitudes are opposing fears about the consequences of reading the “wrong” books. On the one hand, there’s the anxiety that kids will suffer emotional distress, lose a romanticized notion of childhood innocence, be brainwashed into harmful beliefs, or be tempted into immoral behavior. On the other hand, there are worries that not reading “challenging enough” books will lead to kids’ stagnating intellectually and falling behind their peers.

Reading, however, 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.

When reviewers recommend an age range for a book, they consider many elements, including the ages of the main characters, the complexity of the writing (vocabulary, sentence and narrative structures), and the developmental stage it is aimed at. Age ranges are intended as general guideposts, not absolutes, and are based on reviewers’ experiences introducing large numbers of young people to a variety of books. They are a starting point for consideration, not a substitute for any adult’s understanding of a specific community, classroom, or individual child or teen.

Here are some 2022 titles that show how similar subject matter can be presented in very different ways in order to resonate with middle-grade vs. young adult audiences. Each of these titles covers much more than these broad themes and holds appeal for those beyond the age ranges listed in our reviews—especially given the fuzzy line between upper-middle-grade and lower YA, and upper YA and new adult.

Two books that look at divorce and parents’ mental health struggles are, for middle grade, A Song Called Home by Sara Zarr (Balzer + Bray/HarperCollins, March 15) and, for YA, A Furry Faux Paw by Jessica Kara (Page Street, May 24).

Young people confront the complexities of racism in the middle-grade title The Secret Battle of Evan Pao by Wendy Wan-Long Shang (Scholastic, June 7) and the YA novel The Silence That Binds Us by Joanna Ho (HarperTeen, June 14).

Two titles that handle the sensitive and painful subject of abuse are Caprice by Coe Booth (Scholastic, May 17) for middle-grade readers and All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir (Razorbill/Penguin, March 1) for teens.

Disordered eating and body dysmorphia come up in the middle-grade graphic novel Smaller Sister by Maggie Edkins Willis (Roaring Brook Press, May 3) and the YA novel And They Lived … by Steven Salvatore (Bloomsbury, March 8).

The painful impact of societal messages about appearance is explored in Falling Short by Ernesto Cisneros (Quill Tree Books/HarperCollins, March 15) in middle grade, and Does My Body Offend You? by Mayra Cuevas and Marie Marquardt (Knopf, April 5) in YA.

Laura Simeon is a young readers’ editor.

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BookLooks.org

Ratings system.

Book Reports

Book Rating System

By Kristen 10 Comments

Book Review Sites for ALL Kids

How do i know if a book is right for my kids.

It’s a little overwhelming to stay on top of all of the books my kids want to read. I want to encourage them to read; however, I do not want to expose them to a story-line that is violent, disturbing, filled with inappropriate relationships, and bad language.

This post is really meant for a reader who is self selecting books themselves. If you’re looking for books on how to choose a book at an appropriate level, click here . What do you do when your child asks you to request a new book from the library or purchase one from the new school book order?

You look at the titles and find yourself asking, is this book “safe” for my child to read?

I’d love a system that rates books similar to the movies: G, PG, PG-13, R, and even NC-17. While I haven’t found those types of ratings, plenty of sites have their own system.

I would like to stress that it is still important to screen reading material as much as possible. Friends and knowledgeable librarians may have different standards. Since it is nearly impossible to pre-read every single title for your voracious reader, try out the sites below and bookmark your favorite one!

Book Review Sites for ALL Kids (elementary – high school)

Books listed below contain affiliate links.

1. Common Sense Media

My personal favorite book review site is Common Sense Media . It is known for it’s movie, video games, and app reviews; however, it also includes books. You can search by book title, age, topic, parent recommended, and award winners. This is my go-to book review site!

Age Appropriate Rating System : Green, Yellow, and Red circles (like a stoplight) to let you see if this content is appropriate for your child’s age .

GREEN: Content is age appropriate for kids this age.

YELLOW : Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids.

2. Thriving Family

Christian book reviews for parents.

Background: Review includes full plot summary, Christian beliefs, profanity, kissing, sex, and discussion questions.

Favorite: Books are organized alphabetically and give a very thorough overview.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it,” warns Proverbs 4:23. God’s Word recognizes how critical it is to help our young children guard their hearts, especially during the school—age years when they are developing mentally, physically and emotionally.

3. Waking Brain Cells

Background: Tasha is a librarian in Wisconsin. She reviews everything from picture books to teen novels. She only reviews books that she really enjoys. Tasha also has a great Pinterest board with boards for all of the best early, middle, and teen books of the year.

Favorite: She reviews books for Middle School and Teens .

4. Good Reads

Background: Good Reads gives you book summary, but not age appropriateness or level. You can set up an account (free), but you can also browse without an account.

Favorite: You can search for a title and see reviews. They list the popular books from the past year, see middle school books here .

5. Epic Reads

Epic Reads is a community for teen book lovers. Discover teen books, authors, and join communities to share reading interests. You can browse by genre.

Book Review Sites for Kids... is your child reading appropriate books?

………………………………………….

A great resource for selecting books for gifted readers is Some of My Best Friends Are Books by Judith Wynn Halstead.

A thought provoking book about a teacher who awakens the inner-reader in the 6th graders. The Reading Teacher by Donalyn Miller.

What would you recommend?

More Helpful Resources

Pinterest Board: Books for Boys and Books for Girls

Books for 8 Year old Boys

Audio Books for Kids

Lego Books for Beginning Readers

About Kristen

Kristen is an Elementary Reading Specialist. She is the owner / author behind Busy Kids Happy Mom , a site dedicated to fun, practical, and purposeful activities to do with your kids. Follow Kristen on Facebook , Pinterest , and subscribe for updates .

What People Are Saying

at 12:40 pm

Love your list! I have checked Common Sense Media and Thriving Family many times. I like to read several reviews because every one has a slightly different take on what is appropriate at the different ages. A few other sites I would add are Story Snoops (www.storysnoops.com), The Literate Mother ( http://www.theliteratemother.org ), and Sweet on Books ( http://sweetonbooks.com/ ). Also (shameless plug!), I do thorough reviews of books on my blog. 🙂 I’m looking forward to checking out the rest of the websites on your list – thanks!

Great sites too Jennifer! I need to go back and add these too!

at 12:46 pm

I have a kid lit book review blog and I might have to start rating the books with the movie rating’s at least for the tween and teen books. thanks for the post it gave me some ideas to add to my blog!

Keep me posted!! I’d love to know if you do that to your site!

at 12:55 pm

it’s impossible for me to pre-read every single book my kids devour and that’s why i so appreciate sites i can trust to help me make wise choices. my favorite is whatmykidsread.com. thank you for reminding us that books are an entryway into our kids’ hearts and we need to be watchful of what we let in.

Kristal – I LOVE your statement “books are an entryway into our kids’ hearts”. So true!

What a fantastic resource, Kristen! Sharing in our local education/schools forum! Thanks!

Thanks for the great resources. I also like the reviews at this site: http://www.books4yourkids.com/

at 10:24 pm

I have a friend that has a review blog. It is http://cleanteenfiction.blogspot.com

She does good thorough reviews as well as interviews and tours.

[…] finding books. That’s okay! Not only do we need to look at the book level and if the material is appropriate, we need to make sure they can READ […]

Age Appropriate Books

Before the Coffee Gets Cold (Before the Coffee Gets Cold, #1)

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How to Find the Best Age-Appropriate Books for Kids

July 23, 2020
Fleur Morrison
Uncategorized

Every parent I know wants their child to love reading, but it can be difficult to find the right books to give children at the right time. They think that their child will enjoy Harry Potter, but what is the right age at which to introduce their little ones to Hogwarts?

I have had the same question when trying to find books for my own children, so I thought it might be helpful to put together both a list of books for specific age groups that have been tried and tested, and to offer some ways I find books my kids will love.

Consult the pros

One reference I find helpful is the Children’s Book Council of Australia , which holds annual Book of the Year awards. I find the shortlists as helpful as the final award-winners, providing a list of the best books of the year. You can find the shortlisted books from this year and 2019 below.

Librarians and bookshop staff are wonderful at offering advice on age-appropriate books. Just ask, and they’ll wax lyrical about the books that have been popular among particular age groups. These are the people on the ground who see what series or authors sought out by children or their parents.

Ask other parents

I find other parents’ recommendations invaluable. Many have spent a lot of time seeking out the books their children will love, and have listened to them beg for more books in a series, or fail to finish another less successful book. These parents are an invaluable source of knowledge, and possible even their own little lending libraries, unless your child loves their recommendations too much to return the books!

I’ve also joined the Facebook Book Club, and posed members the question about what books were best for my seven-year-old daughter and 11-year-old niece, whose birthday is coming up. Members from around the world offered their suggestions, ranging from The Baby-Sitters Club series to Tui T Sutherland’s Wings of Fire books.

Have fun on Bookfinder

The UK’s BookTrust website has a fun and informative Bookfinder activity, where users can select a date range, then choose one or more themes such as action and adventure, funny, classics, sport and scary and find out books recommended for them.

Involve your child in the selection – they’ll love selecting their areas of interest, and the experience will show them how many exciting options they have when it comes to books.

Some ideas to get you started

Facebook Book Club suggestions

6-8-year-olds

Sally Rippin’s Billie B Brown Mysteries

Yvette Poshoglian’s Ella and Olivia series

Megan McDonald’s Judy Moody series

Beverly Cleary’s Ramona series

Lois Lowry’s Gooney Bird Greene series

Jill Murphy’s The Worst Witch series

Enid Blyton’s books (The Famous Five or Mallory Towers)

Rebecca Elliott’s Owl Diaries series

Gertrude Chandler Warner’s The Boxcar Children series

Barbara Park’s Junie B Jones series

Jane O’Connor’s Fancy Nancy series

Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton’s 13-Storey Treehouse series

10-13-year-olds

Ann M Martin’s The Baby-Sitters Club series

Jamie Suzanne’s Sweet Valley Twins series

David Walliams’ books

David Badiell’s books

RJ Palacio’s Wonder

Erin Hunter’s Warriors series

Carolyn Keene’s Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew

Lisa McMann’s The Unwanteds series

Astrid Lindgren’s Pippi Longstocking

Children’s Book Council of Australia

CBCA 2020 Shortlist – Book of the Year for Younger Readers (7-12 years)

Pip Harry’s The Little Wave

Deborah Kelly’s The Thing About Oliver

Bren MacDibble’s The Dog Runner

Meg McKinlay’s Catch a Falling Star

Emily Rodda’s The Glimme

Edwina Wyatt’s The Secrets of Magnolia Moon

CBCA 2019 Shortlist – Book of the Year for Younger Readers (7-12 years)

Ursula Dubosarsky’s Brindabella

Lorraine Marwood’s Leave Taking

Carl Merrison and Hakea Hustler’s Black Cockatoo

Jaclyn Moriarty’s The Slightly Alarming Tale of the Whispering Wars

Carly Nugent’s The Peacock Detectives

Emily Rodda’s His Name Was Walter

My children’s favourites

6-7 years old:

Sally Rippin’s Billie B Brown series

Andy Griffiths and Terry Denton’s Treehouse series

Aaron Blabey’s The Bad Guys series

Enid Blyton’s The Faraway Tree series

Tristan Bancks’ Tom Weekly series

Jacqueline Harvey’s Clementine-Rose series

8 – 10 years old

RJ Palacio’s Wonder and Auggie and Me

Emily Rodda’s The Best-Kept Secret

JK Rowling’s Harry Potter series (I know it’s obvious, but it really is a winner)

Jessica Townsend’s Nevermoor and Wundersmith

Anthony Horowitz’s Alex Rider series (possibly more suitable for 11-12-year-olds)

Neil Gaiman’s Coraline

To find the above books, visit Booktopia (Australia) or Book Depository (UK or US)

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Choosing the Right Books: A Guide to Selecting Age-Appropriate Bibliotherapy Books for Children

Originally posted on 03/07/2023 @ 11:47

Understanding the Importance of Age-Appropriate Bibliotherapy Books

What is bibliotherapy.

Bibliotherapy is a therapeutic approach that utilizes books and reading as a means to promote emotional and psychological well-being in individuals, particularly children. It involves the careful selection of age-appropriate books that address specific issues or challenges a child may be facing, such as anxiety, grief, or self-esteem. By engaging with these books, children can gain insights, empathy, and a sense of validation, as they see characters navigating similar experiences. Bibliotherapy not only fosters a love for reading but also provides a safe and supportive space for children to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and ultimately, promote personal growth and resilience.

The benefits of bibliotherapy for children

The benefits of bibliotherapy for children are numerous and significant. Bibliotherapy, which involves the use of books and reading as a therapeutic tool, can help children navigate and cope with various emotional and psychological challenges they may face. By engaging with age-appropriate bibliotherapy books, children can develop a better understanding of their own emotions, gain insights into different perspectives and experiences, and learn valuable coping strategies. Reading about characters who are going through similar situations can provide a sense of validation and comfort, helping children feel less alone in their struggles. Additionally, bibliotherapy can enhance children’s empathy and emotional intelligence, as they learn to relate to and empathize with the characters they encounter in books. Overall, bibliotherapy offers a powerful and effective means of supporting children’s emotional well-being and fostering their personal growth and resilience.

Why age-appropriate books are crucial

Selecting age-appropriate books is of utmost importance when it comes to bibliotherapy for children. Children’s literature plays a significant role in their emotional and cognitive development, and reading books that are suitable for their age group can have a profound impact on their overall well-being. Age-appropriate books ensure that the content, themes, and language are tailored to match a child’s level of understanding and maturity. This not only allows children to engage with the material more effectively but also helps them relate to the characters and situations in the story. By providing children with books that are appropriate for their age, we can foster their love for reading, encourage empathy and emotional intelligence, and promote a positive and healthy relationship with literature.

Identifying Developmental Stages and Reading Levels

Understanding different developmental stages.

Understanding different developmental stages is crucial when selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books for children. Children go through various stages of development, each with its own unique characteristics and needs. For instance, preschool-aged children are typically in the early stages of language development and are highly imaginative. Therefore, books with simple language and engaging illustrations can capture their attention and support their cognitive growth. On the other hand, school-aged children are more advanced in their language skills and have a growing sense of self-identity. Books that explore themes of friendship, self-discovery, and problem-solving can resonate with them and help them navigate their emotional and social challenges. By considering the developmental stage of a child, caregivers and educators can choose books that align with their cognitive, emotional, and social needs, making the reading experience more meaningful and impactful.

Assessing reading levels

Assessing reading levels is a crucial step in selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books for children. Understanding a child’s reading level ensures that the chosen books are neither too challenging nor too easy, allowing them to fully engage with the content and derive maximum benefit from the therapeutic process. Various methods can be employed to assess reading levels, including standardized tests, teacher evaluations, and informal assessments. These assessments consider factors such as vocabulary, sentence complexity, and comprehension skills to determine the appropriate reading level for a child. By accurately assessing reading levels, caregivers, educators, and therapists can confidently choose books that align with a child’s abilities, fostering their love for reading while addressing their emotional and developmental needs.

Matching developmental stages with reading levels

Matching developmental stages with reading levels is crucial when selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books for children. It is important to consider the cognitive and emotional abilities of children at different stages of development to ensure that the content of the books aligns with their comprehension and emotional maturity. For younger children, such as preschoolers and early elementary school students, books with simple language, vibrant illustrations, and relatable themes are recommended. As children progress through middle childhood and adolescence, their reading abilities and interests expand, allowing for more complex narratives and topics that address their evolving emotional needs. By carefully matching developmental stages with reading levels, caregivers and educators can provide children with bibliotherapy books that not only engage and entertain but also support their emotional growth and well-being.

Exploring Different Themes and Topics

Popular themes in children’s bibliotherapy.

Popular themes in children’s bibliotherapy can vary greatly, as they aim to address a wide range of emotional and psychological issues that children may face. One common theme is self-esteem and self-acceptance, where books can help children develop a positive sense of self and learn to embrace their unique qualities. Another prevalent theme is friendship and social skills, as books can provide guidance on building healthy relationships, resolving conflicts, and navigating social situations. Additionally, books addressing grief and loss are frequently sought after, offering comfort and support to children experiencing the death of a loved one or coping with other forms of loss. Other popular themes include anxiety and stress management, bullying prevention, and emotional regulation, all of which contribute to the overall well-being and emotional growth of children.

Addressing specific issues through books

Addressing specific issues through books can be a powerful tool in helping children navigate various challenges they may face. Whether it is dealing with grief, bullying, anxiety, or self-esteem issues, the right books can provide comfort, guidance, and a sense of understanding. By selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books, parents, educators, and caregivers can offer children a safe space to explore their emotions, learn coping strategies, and gain valuable insights into their specific concerns. These books not only provide a platform for open discussions but also foster empathy, resilience, and a sense of empowerment in children as they see characters overcoming similar obstacles. With the right selection of books, children can find solace, inspiration, and the tools they need to navigate the complexities of life.

Considering cultural diversity in book selection

Considering cultural diversity in book selection is crucial when choosing age-appropriate bibliotherapy books for children. It is essential to ensure that the books chosen represent a wide range of cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds, allowing children to explore and understand different perspectives. By including books that reflect diverse cultures, children can develop empathy, respect, and appreciation for others, fostering a more inclusive and accepting society. Additionally, exposure to diverse literature can help children from different cultural backgrounds see themselves represented in the stories they read, promoting a sense of belonging and validation. Therefore, when selecting books for bibliotherapy, it is important to prioritize cultural diversity to provide children with a well-rounded reading experience that celebrates and embraces the richness of our global community.

Evaluating Book Content and Language

Checking for appropriate content.

When checking for appropriate content in children’s books, it is essential to consider various factors to ensure that the material is suitable for their age and developmental stage. Firstly, it is crucial to assess the book’s language and vocabulary, ensuring that it aligns with the child’s reading level and comprehension abilities. Additionally, evaluating the book’s themes and subject matter is vital to ensure that it addresses topics that are relevant and appropriate for the child’s age group. It is important to consider the child’s emotional and cognitive readiness to engage with certain content, avoiding material that may be too mature or potentially distressing. By carefully examining these aspects, parents, educators, and caregivers can select age-appropriate bibliotherapy books that will not only captivate children’s interest but also support their emotional and intellectual growth.

Assessing language complexity

Assessing language complexity is a crucial aspect when selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books for children. The language used in a book should align with a child’s developmental stage and reading abilities to ensure comprehension and engagement. When evaluating language complexity, factors such as vocabulary, sentence structure, and overall writing style should be considered. For younger children, books with simpler vocabulary and shorter sentences may be more suitable, allowing them to grasp the story and concepts more easily. On the other hand, older children may benefit from books that challenge their language skills, introducing new words and more complex sentence structures. By carefully assessing language complexity, educators, parents, and therapists can ensure that children are provided with books that not only resonate with their emotional needs but also support their language development.

Considering illustrations and visual elements

When considering illustrations and visual elements in age-appropriate bibliotherapy books for children, it is important to take into account their developmental stage and level of understanding. Younger children, such as preschoolers and early elementary school students, often rely heavily on visual cues to comprehend and engage with a story. Therefore, selecting books with vibrant and captivating illustrations can enhance their reading experience and facilitate their comprehension of the therapeutic message. On the other hand, older children, particularly those in middle and high school, may benefit from books that incorporate more sophisticated visual elements, such as graphic novels or illustrations that evoke deeper emotions. By carefully considering the illustrations and visual elements in bibliotherapy books, educators, parents, and therapists can ensure that children are not only engaged but also able to connect with the therapeutic content on a visual and emotional level.

Utilizing Reviews and Recommendations

Finding reliable sources for book reviews.

When searching for reliable sources for book reviews, it is important to consider a few key factors. Firstly, reputable book review websites such as Goodreads, Booklist, and Kirkus Reviews are excellent resources to consult. These platforms often feature reviews from both professional critics and fellow readers, providing a diverse range of opinions. Additionally, established literary magazines and newspapers like The New York Times Book Review and Publishers Weekly are known for their thorough and insightful book reviews. It is also worth exploring online communities and forums dedicated to children’s literature, where parents, teachers, and librarians share their recommendations and insights. By utilizing these reliable sources, one can ensure that the book reviews they consult are trustworthy and helpful in selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books for children.

Seeking recommendations from experts

Seeking recommendations from experts can be a valuable approach when selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books for children. Experts in the field, such as child psychologists, librarians, and educators, possess a deep understanding of children’s developmental stages and can provide valuable insights into suitable book choices. These professionals can offer recommendations based on a child’s age, interests, and specific needs, ensuring that the selected books address relevant themes and promote emotional growth. By seeking recommendations from experts, parents and caregivers can feel confident in their book choices, knowing that they have received guidance from those with expertise in child development and literature.

Considering feedback from other parents and educators

Considering feedback from other parents and educators is crucial when selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books for children. By seeking input from those who have firsthand experience with these books, parents and educators can gain valuable insights into the suitability and effectiveness of different titles. Feedback from other parents can provide a sense of how well a book resonates with children of a similar age group, while input from educators can shed light on the educational value and potential impact on a child’s emotional development. Additionally, feedback can help identify any potential concerns or issues that may arise from certain books, allowing parents and educators to make informed decisions and choose books that align with their specific goals and values. Ultimately, by considering feedback from other parents and educators, individuals can ensure that they are selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books that will truly benefit and engage children in a meaningful way.

Engaging Children in the Book Selection Process

Involving children in decision-making.

Involving children in decision-making can be a valuable approach when selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books. By actively involving children in the process, they can develop a sense of ownership and engagement with the books they will be reading. This involvement can be achieved through various means, such as allowing children to participate in book selection discussions, providing them with a range of options to choose from, or even encouraging them to suggest books that they believe would be beneficial for their own personal growth and development. By including children in the decision-making process, we can empower them to take an active role in their own reading journey and foster a sense of autonomy and responsibility.

Encouraging active participation

Encouraging active participation is crucial when selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books for children. By actively engaging in the reading process, children are more likely to connect with the characters and themes, fostering a deeper understanding and emotional connection. One effective way to encourage active participation is by incorporating interactive elements within the book, such as thought-provoking questions or prompts that prompt children to reflect on their own experiences. Additionally, including activities or exercises related to the book’s content can further enhance engagement and encourage children to explore their thoughts and feelings. By promoting active participation, children can develop critical thinking skills, empathy, and a sense of empowerment, making the bibliotherapy experience more impactful and beneficial.

Creating a positive reading experience

Creating a positive reading experience is crucial when selecting age-appropriate bibliotherapy books for children. To ensure a positive experience, it is important to consider the child’s interests, reading level, and emotional maturity. By choosing books that align with their interests, children are more likely to engage with the material and develop a love for reading. Additionally, selecting books that match their reading level allows them to feel successful and confident in their reading abilities. Considering a child’s emotional maturity is also essential, as it ensures that the content of the book is appropriate and does not overwhelm or distress them. By carefully considering these factors, caregivers and educators can create a positive reading experience that fosters a lifelong love of books and supports the child’s emotional well-being.

Promoting Mindfulness Through Bibliotherapy: Teaching Children to Stay Present and Calm

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Exploring Emotions Through Books: Using Bibliotherapy to Help Children Identify and Manage Their Feelings

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Choosing the Right Books: A Guide to Selecting Child Bibliotherapy Titles

Originally posted on 03/07/2023 @ 15:47Understanding Bibliotherapy What is bibliotherapy? Bibliotherapy is a therapeutic approach that utilizes books and reading as a means to promote emotional and psychological well-being in children. It involves the careful selection of books that address specific issues or…

Books by Age

Ready to find good children’s books by age, children’s books for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers (ages 0 – 4).

Reading to children is foundational to their later reading success. But what children’s books are the best? And which picture books are appropriate for each of the stages, starting with babies and then moving to toddlers and preschoolers? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with good books for every age and stage!

Board Books for Babies
Toddler Books for 2-Year-Olds
Books for 3-Year-Olds
Books for 4-Year-Olds
Nonfiction Picture Books for Ages 2 – 5

Children’s Books for Kindergarten and Early Elementary (ages 5 – 8)

Children learn to read beginning reader books with phonics, sight words, and decodable text, then continue to grow as readers by reading engaging books at the next just-right level for them.

Keep in mind that the goal is reading and improving reading skills, not reading fancy literature. This might look like reading children’s books you don’t personally love. Let that go for now and remember that as a child grows, they won’t read those books forever.

I highly recommend giving children a choice of books — even if you pick the choices from which they can choose. It’s highly motivating for kids to choose their own books.

Also, try to find help children grow their love of reading with children’s books about topics or in genres in which the child is interested.

Encourage a mix of audiobooks , graphic novels , nonfiction , picture books, and chapter books.

Continue reading aloud to your kids– it’s a wonderful, enriching way to bond and grow children in their literacy skills.

Age 5 Books

Kindergarten.

Picture Books for Age 5
Easy Reader Kindergarten Books for Age 5
Nonfiction Books for Age 5

Age 6 Books

Early Reader Books for Age 6
Easy Chapter Books for 1st Graders, Age 6
Nonfiction Children’s Books for Age 6
Book Series for Age 6
Read Aloud Books for Age 6

Age 7 Books

Books for 2nd Graders, Age 7
Book Series for Age 7
Nonfiction Books for Age 7
Read Aloud Books for Age 7
Graphic Novels for Beginning Readers

Age 8 Books

Books for 3rd Graders, Age 8
Book Series for Age 8
Nonfiction Children’s Books for Age 8
Read Aloud Books for Age 8
Graphic Novels for Growing Readers

Books for Upper Elementary and Middle School (ages 9 – 12)

Discover the best middle grade children’s books for young readers ages 9 to 12.

Just like at earlier ages, try to find books that interest each child, boy or girl, by theme, topic, or genre.

Once your readers love reading books for pleasure, encourage them to broaden the books that they’re reading with new topics and genres.

There are a wide variety of recommended children’s books with reviews, including the newest, best chapter books on the market.

You’ll also notice that I’ve indicated the genres for each book, such as fantasy, mystery, science-fiction, and realistic as well as an indication if the book is part of a series.

Happy reading!

Age 9 Books

Books for 4th Graders, Age 9
Book Series for Age 9
Nonfiction Books for Age 9
Read Aloud Books for Age 9
Best Graphic Novels for 4th Graders
Best Graphic Novel Series

Age 10 Books

Books for 5th Graders, Age 10
Book Series for Age 10
Nonfiction Books for Age 10
Read Aloud Books for Age 10

Age 11 Books

Books for 6th Graders, Age 11
Book Series for Age 11
Nonfiction Books for Age 11
Read Aloud Books for Age 11
Best Graphic Novels Series

Age 12 Books

Books for 7th Graders, Age 12
Book Series for Age 12
Nonfiction Books for Age 12
Read Aloud Books for Age 12

Age 13 Books

Books for 8th Graders
Young Adult Books for Teens (8th grade and High School)
Read Aloud Books for 7th and 8th Grade
Nonfiction Books for Teenagers
Audiobooks for Teens

Books for Teens (ages 13+)

While I don’t review as many young adult books for teens as for other ages, these book lists should give you many good books for your readers, including advanced younger readers . My reviews indicate if there is any questionable or mature content.

Here’s one thing I know, by high school, kids have so much required reading that it’s often very difficult to get them to read independently.

Give them books, access to audiobooks, and help them find time to read. Even if it’s only on vacation days.

Keep trying!

Books for Teens (YA)
Nonfiction Books for Teens

I’m continuously reviewing new children’s books and adding more to my new and recommended lists.

Books for Pre-K and Elementary School Grades

Find literature kids age 4 to 8 will love.

A Tall Tale: How the Ostriches Got Their Long Necks and Long Legs | Dedicated Review

A Tall Tale: How the Ostriches Got Their Long Necks and Long Legs is a humorous and energetic fable, sure to appeal to family audiences.

5 Extraordinary Middle-Grade Audiobooks to Ignite the Imagination

Prepare to be captivated by this month’s extraordinary middle-grade audiobooks! The talented narrators of these stories weave enchantment with their voices.

A Kids Book About Strength | Dedicated Review

A Kids Book About Strength is a fantastic book for shared reading and discussion about what it means to grow and be strong.

Kelcie Murphy and the Academy for the Unbreakable Arts | Dedicated Review

Kelcie Murphy and the Academy for the Unbreakable Arts is a well-written, thought-provoking, coming-of-age fantasy novel.

Not Finished Yet: Trusting God with All My Feelings | Dedicated Review

Not Finished Yet: Trusting God with All My Feelings is a book that speaks directly to families and educators who are committed to fostering spiritual growth.

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17 Book Review Examples to Help You Write the Perfect Review

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Blog – Posted on Friday, Mar 29

17 book review examples to help you write the perfect review.

It’s an exciting time to be a book reviewer. Once confined to print newspapers and journals, reviews now dot many corridors of the Internet — forever helping others discover their next great read. That said, every book reviewer will face a familiar panic: how can you do justice to a great book in just a thousand words?

As you know, the best way to learn how to do something is by immersing yourself in it. Luckily, the Internet (i.e. Goodreads and other review sites , in particular) has made book reviews more accessible than ever — which means that there are a lot of book reviews examples out there for you to view!

In this post, we compiled 17 prototypical book review examples in multiple genres to help you figure out how to write the perfect review . If you want to jump straight to the examples, you can skip the next section. Otherwise, let’s first check out what makes up a good review.

Are you interested in becoming a book reviewer? We recommend you check out Reedsy Discovery , where you can earn money for writing reviews — and are guaranteed people will read your reviews! To register as a book reviewer, sign up here.

Pro-tip : But wait! How are you sure if you should become a book reviewer in the first place? If you're on the fence, or curious about your match with a book reviewing career, take our quick quiz:

Should you become a book reviewer?

Find out the answer. Takes 30 seconds!

What must a book review contain?

Like all works of art, no two book reviews will be identical. But fear not: there are a few guidelines for any aspiring book reviewer to follow. Most book reviews, for instance, are less than 1,500 words long, with the sweet spot hitting somewhere around the 1,000-word mark. (However, this may vary depending on the platform on which you’re writing, as we’ll see later.)

In addition, all reviews share some universal elements, as shown in our book review templates . These include:

A review will offer a concise plot summary of the book.
A book review will offer an evaluation of the work.
A book review will offer a recommendation for the audience.

If these are the basic ingredients that make up a book review, it’s the tone and style with which the book reviewer writes that brings the extra panache. This will differ from platform to platform, of course. A book review on Goodreads, for instance, will be much more informal and personal than a book review on Kirkus Reviews, as it is catering to a different audience. However, at the end of the day, the goal of all book reviews is to give the audience the tools to determine whether or not they’d like to read the book themselves.

Keeping that in mind, let’s proceed to some book review examples to put all of this in action.

How much of a book nerd are you, really?

Find out here, once and for all. Takes 30 seconds!

Book review examples for fiction books

Since story is king in the world of fiction, it probably won’t come as any surprise to learn that a book review for a novel will concentrate on how well the story was told .

That said, book reviews in all genres follow the same basic formula that we discussed earlier. In these examples, you’ll be able to see how book reviewers on different platforms expertly intertwine the plot summary and their personal opinions of the book to produce a clear, informative, and concise review.

Note: Some of the book review examples run very long. If a book review is truncated in this post, we’ve indicated by including a […] at the end, but you can always read the entire review if you click on the link provided.

Examples of literary fiction book reviews

Kirkus Reviews reviews Ralph Ellison’s The Invisible Man :

An extremely powerful story of a young Southern Negro, from his late high school days through three years of college to his life in Harlem.

His early training prepared him for a life of humility before white men, but through injustices- large and small, he came to realize that he was an "invisible man". People saw in him only a reflection of their preconceived ideas of what he was, denied his individuality, and ultimately did not see him at all. This theme, which has implications far beyond the obvious racial parallel, is skillfully handled. The incidents of the story are wholly absorbing. The boy's dismissal from college because of an innocent mistake, his shocked reaction to the anonymity of the North and to Harlem, his nightmare experiences on a one-day job in a paint factory and in the hospital, his lightning success as the Harlem leader of a communistic organization known as the Brotherhood, his involvement in black versus white and black versus black clashes and his disillusion and understanding of his invisibility- all climax naturally in scenes of violence and riot, followed by a retreat which is both literal and figurative. Parts of this experience may have been told before, but never with such freshness, intensity and power.

This is Ellison's first novel, but he has complete control of his story and his style. Watch it.

Lyndsey reviews George Orwell’s 1984 on Goodreads:

YOU. ARE. THE. DEAD. Oh my God. I got the chills so many times toward the end of this book. It completely blew my mind. It managed to surpass my high expectations AND be nothing at all like I expected. Or in Newspeak "Double Plus Good." Let me preface this with an apology. If I sound stunningly inarticulate at times in this review, I can't help it. My mind is completely fried.

This book is like the dystopian Lord of the Rings, with its richly developed culture and economics, not to mention a fully developed language called Newspeak, or rather more of the anti-language, whose purpose is to limit speech and understanding instead of to enhance and expand it. The world-building is so fully fleshed out and spine-tinglingly terrifying that it's almost as if George travelled to such a place, escaped from it, and then just wrote it all down.

I read Fahrenheit 451 over ten years ago in my early teens. At the time, I remember really wanting to read 1984, although I never managed to get my hands on it. I'm almost glad I didn't. Though I would not have admitted it at the time, it would have gone over my head. Or at the very least, I wouldn't have been able to appreciate it fully. […]

The New York Times reviews Lisa Halliday’s Asymmetry :

Three-quarters of the way through Lisa Halliday’s debut novel, “Asymmetry,” a British foreign correspondent named Alistair is spending Christmas on a compound outside of Baghdad. His fellow revelers include cameramen, defense contractors, United Nations employees and aid workers. Someone’s mother has FedExed a HoneyBaked ham from Maine; people are smoking by the swimming pool. It is 2003, just days after Saddam Hussein’s capture, and though the mood is optimistic, Alistair is worrying aloud about the ethics of his chosen profession, wondering if reporting on violence doesn’t indirectly abet violence and questioning why he’d rather be in a combat zone than reading a picture book to his son. But every time he returns to London, he begins to “spin out.” He can’t go home. “You observe what people do with their freedom — what they don’t do — and it’s impossible not to judge them for it,” he says.

The line, embedded unceremoniously in the middle of a page-long paragraph, doubles, like so many others in “Asymmetry,” as literary criticism. Halliday’s novel is so strange and startlingly smart that its mere existence seems like commentary on the state of fiction. One finishes “Asymmetry” for the first or second (or like this reader, third) time and is left wondering what other writers are not doing with their freedom — and, like Alistair, judging them for it.

Despite its title, “Asymmetry” comprises two seemingly unrelated sections of equal length, appended by a slim and quietly shocking coda. Halliday’s prose is clean and lean, almost reportorial in the style of W. G. Sebald, and like the murmurings of a shy person at a cocktail party, often comic only in single clauses. It’s a first novel that reads like the work of an author who has published many books over many years. […]

Emily W. Thompson reviews Michael Doane's The Crossing on Reedsy Discovery :

In Doane’s debut novel, a young man embarks on a journey of self-discovery with surprising results.

An unnamed protagonist (The Narrator) is dealing with heartbreak. His love, determined to see the world, sets out for Portland, Oregon. But he’s a small-town boy who hasn’t traveled much. So, the Narrator mourns her loss and hides from life, throwing himself into rehabbing an old motorcycle. Until one day, he takes a leap; he packs his bike and a few belongings and heads out to find the Girl.

Following in the footsteps of Jack Kerouac and William Least Heat-Moon, Doane offers a coming of age story about a man finding himself on the backroads of America. Doane’s a gifted writer with fluid prose and insightful observations, using The Narrator’s personal interactions to illuminate the diversity of the United States.

The Narrator initially sticks to the highways, trying to make it to the West Coast as quickly as possible. But a hitchhiker named Duke convinces him to get off the beaten path and enjoy the ride. “There’s not a place that’s like any other,” [39] Dukes contends, and The Narrator realizes he’s right. Suddenly, the trip is about the journey, not just the destination. The Narrator ditches his truck and traverses the deserts and mountains on his bike. He destroys his phone, cutting off ties with his past and living only in the moment.

As he crosses the country, The Narrator connects with several unique personalities whose experiences and views deeply impact his own. Duke, the complicated cowboy and drifter, who opens The Narrator’s eyes to a larger world. Zooey, the waitress in Colorado who opens his heart and reminds him that love can be found in this big world. And Rosie, The Narrator’s sweet landlady in Portland, who helps piece him back together both physically and emotionally.

This supporting cast of characters is excellent. Duke, in particular, is wonderfully nuanced and complicated. He’s a throwback to another time, a man without a cell phone who reads Sartre and sleeps under the stars. Yet he’s also a grifter with a “love ‘em and leave ‘em” attitude that harms those around him. It’s fascinating to watch The Narrator wrestle with Duke’s behavior, trying to determine which to model and which to discard.

Doane creates a relatable protagonist in The Narrator, whose personal growth doesn’t erase his faults. His willingness to hit the road with few resources is admirable, and he’s prescient enough to recognize the jealousy of those who cannot or will not take the leap. His encounters with new foods, places, and people broaden his horizons. Yet his immaturity and selfishness persist. He tells Rosie she’s been a good mother to him but chooses to ignore the continuing concern from his own parents as he effectively disappears from his old life.

Despite his flaws, it’s a pleasure to accompany The Narrator on his physical and emotional journey. The unexpected ending is a fitting denouement to an epic and memorable road trip.

The Book Smugglers review Anissa Gray’s The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls :

I am still dipping my toes into the literally fiction pool, finding what works for me and what doesn’t. Books like The Care and Feeding of Ravenously Hungry Girls by Anissa Gray are definitely my cup of tea.

Althea and Proctor Cochran had been pillars of their economically disadvantaged community for years – with their local restaurant/small market and their charity drives. Until they are found guilty of fraud for stealing and keeping most of the money they raised and sent to jail. Now disgraced, their entire family is suffering the consequences, specially their twin teenage daughters Baby Vi and Kim. To complicate matters even more: Kim was actually the one to call the police on her parents after yet another fight with her mother. […]

Examples of children’s and YA fiction book reviews

The Book Hookup reviews Angie Thomas’ The Hate U Give :

♥ Quick Thoughts and Rating: 5 stars! I can’t imagine how challenging it would be to tackle the voice of a movement like Black Lives Matter, but I do know that Thomas did it with a finesse only a talented author like herself possibly could. With an unapologetically realistic delivery packed with emotion, The Hate U Give is a crucially important portrayal of the difficulties minorities face in our country every single day. I have no doubt that this book will be met with resistance by some (possibly many) and slapped with a “controversial” label, but if you’ve ever wondered what it was like to walk in a POC’s shoes, then I feel like this is an unflinchingly honest place to start.

In Angie Thomas’s debut novel, Starr Carter bursts on to the YA scene with both heart-wrecking and heartwarming sincerity. This author is definitely one to watch.

♥ Review: The hype around this book has been unquestionable and, admittedly, that made me both eager to get my hands on it and terrified to read it. I mean, what if I was to be the one person that didn’t love it as much as others? (That seems silly now because of how truly mesmerizing THUG was in the most heartbreakingly realistic way.) However, with the relevancy of its summary in regards to the unjust predicaments POC currently face in the US, I knew this one was a must-read, so I was ready to set my fears aside and dive in. That said, I had an altogether more personal, ulterior motive for wanting to read this book. […]

The New York Times reviews Melissa Albert’s The Hazel Wood :

Alice Crewe (a last name she’s chosen for herself) is a fairy tale legacy: the granddaughter of Althea Proserpine, author of a collection of dark-as-night fairy tales called “Tales From the Hinterland.” The book has a cult following, and though Alice has never met her grandmother, she’s learned a little about her through internet research. She hasn’t read the stories, because her mother, Ella Proserpine, forbids it.

Alice and Ella have moved from place to place in an attempt to avoid the “bad luck” that seems to follow them. Weird things have happened. As a child, Alice was kidnapped by a man who took her on a road trip to find her grandmother; he was stopped by the police before they did so. When at 17 she sees that man again, unchanged despite the years, Alice panics. Then Ella goes missing, and Alice turns to Ellery Finch, a schoolmate who’s an Althea Proserpine superfan, for help in tracking down her mother. Not only has Finch read every fairy tale in the collection, but handily, he remembers them, sharing them with Alice as they journey to the mysterious Hazel Wood, the estate of her now-dead grandmother, where they hope to find Ella.

“The Hazel Wood” starts out strange and gets stranger, in the best way possible. (The fairy stories Finch relays, which Albert includes as their own chapters, are as creepy and evocative as you’d hope.) Albert seamlessly combines contemporary realism with fantasy, blurring the edges in a way that highlights that place where stories and real life convene, where magic contains truth and the world as it appears is false, where just about anything can happen, particularly in the pages of a very good book. It’s a captivating debut. […]

James reviews Margaret Wise Brown’s Goodnight, Moon on Goodreads:

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown is one of the books that followers of my blog voted as a must-read for our Children's Book August 2018 Readathon. Come check it out and join the next few weeks!

This picture book was such a delight. I hadn't remembered reading it when I was a child, but it might have been read to me... either way, it was like a whole new experience! It's always so difficult to convince a child to fall asleep at night. I don't have kids, but I do have a 5-month-old puppy who whines for 5 minutes every night when he goes in his cage/crate (hopefully he'll be fully housebroken soon so he can roam around when he wants). I can only imagine! I babysat a lot as a teenager and I have tons of younger cousins, nieces, and nephews, so I've been through it before, too. This was a believable experience, and it really helps show kids how to relax and just let go when it's time to sleep.

The bunny's are adorable. The rhymes are exquisite. I found it pretty fun, but possibly a little dated given many of those things aren't normal routines anymore. But the lessons to take from it are still powerful. Loved it! I want to sample some more books by this fine author and her illustrators.

Publishers Weekly reviews Elizabeth Lilly’s Geraldine :

This funny, thoroughly accomplished debut opens with two words: “I’m moving.” They’re spoken by the title character while she swoons across her family’s ottoman, and because Geraldine is a giraffe, her full-on melancholy mode is quite a spectacle. But while Geraldine may be a drama queen (even her mother says so), it won’t take readers long to warm up to her. The move takes Geraldine from Giraffe City, where everyone is like her, to a new school, where everyone else is human. Suddenly, the former extrovert becomes “That Giraffe Girl,” and all she wants to do is hide, which is pretty much impossible. “Even my voice tries to hide,” she says, in the book’s most poignant moment. “It’s gotten quiet and whispery.” Then she meets Cassie, who, though human, is also an outlier (“I’m that girl who wears glasses and likes MATH and always organizes her food”), and things begin to look up.

Lilly’s watercolor-and-ink drawings are as vividly comic and emotionally astute as her writing; just when readers think there are no more ways for Geraldine to contort her long neck, this highly promising talent comes up with something new.

Examples of genre fiction book reviews

Karlyn P reviews Nora Roberts’ Dark Witch , a paranormal romance novel , on Goodreads:

4 stars. Great world-building, weak romance, but still worth the read.

I hesitate to describe this book as a 'romance' novel simply because the book spent little time actually exploring the romance between Iona and Boyle. Sure, there IS a romance in this novel. Sprinkled throughout the book are a few scenes where Iona and Boyle meet, chat, wink at each, flirt some more, sleep together, have a misunderstanding, make up, and then profess their undying love. Very formulaic stuff, and all woven around the more important parts of this book.

The meat of this book is far more focused on the story of the Dark witch and her magically-gifted descendants living in Ireland. Despite being weak on the romance, I really enjoyed it. I think the book is probably better for it, because the romance itself was pretty lackluster stuff.

I absolutely plan to stick with this series as I enjoyed the world building, loved the Ireland setting, and was intrigued by all of the secondary characters. However, If you read Nora Roberts strictly for the romance scenes, this one might disappoint. But if you enjoy a solid background story with some dark magic and prophesies, you might enjoy it as much as I did.

I listened to this one on audio, and felt the narration was excellent.

Emily May reviews R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy Wars , an epic fantasy novel , on Goodreads:

“But I warn you, little warrior. The price of power is pain.”

Holy hell, what did I just read??

➽ A fantasy military school

➽ A rich world based on modern Chinese history

➽ Shamans and gods

➽ Detailed characterization leading to unforgettable characters

➽ Adorable, opium-smoking mentors

That's a basic list, but this book is all of that and SO MUCH MORE. I know 100% that The Poppy War will be one of my best reads of 2018.

Isn't it just so great when you find one of those books that completely drags you in, makes you fall in love with the characters, and demands that you sit on the edge of your seat for every horrific, nail-biting moment of it? This is one of those books for me. And I must issue a serious content warning: this book explores some very dark themes. Proceed with caution (or not at all) if you are particularly sensitive to scenes of war, drug use and addiction, genocide, racism, sexism, ableism, self-harm, torture, and rape (off-page but extremely horrific).

Because, despite the fairly innocuous first 200 pages, the title speaks the truth: this is a book about war. All of its horrors and atrocities. It is not sugar-coated, and it is often graphic. The "poppy" aspect refers to opium, which is a big part of this book. It is a fantasy, but the book draws inspiration from the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Rape of Nanking.

Crime Fiction Lover reviews Jessica Barry’s Freefall , a crime novel:

In some crime novels, the wrongdoing hits you between the eyes from page one. With others it’s a more subtle process, and that’s OK too. So where does Freefall fit into the sliding scale?

In truth, it’s not clear. This is a novel with a thrilling concept at its core. A woman survives plane crash, then runs for her life. However, it is the subtleties at play that will draw you in like a spider beckoning to an unwitting fly.

Like the heroine in Sharon Bolton’s Dead Woman Walking, Allison is lucky to be alive. She was the only passenger in a private plane, belonging to her fiancé, Ben, who was piloting the expensive aircraft, when it came down in woodlands in the Colorado Rockies. Ally is also the only survivor, but rather than sitting back and waiting for rescue, she is soon pulling together items that may help her survive a little longer – first aid kit, energy bars, warm clothes, trainers – before fleeing the scene. If you’re hearing the faint sound of alarm bells ringing, get used to it. There’s much, much more to learn about Ally before this tale is over.

Kirkus Reviews reviews Ernest Cline’s Ready Player One , a science-fiction novel :

Video-game players embrace the quest of a lifetime in a virtual world; screenwriter Cline’s first novel is old wine in new bottles.

The real world, in 2045, is the usual dystopian horror story. So who can blame Wade, our narrator, if he spends most of his time in a virtual world? The 18-year-old, orphaned at 11, has no friends in his vertical trailer park in Oklahoma City, while the OASIS has captivating bells and whistles, and it’s free. Its creator, the legendary billionaire James Halliday, left a curious will. He had devised an elaborate online game, a hunt for a hidden Easter egg. The finder would inherit his estate. Old-fashioned riddles lead to three keys and three gates. Wade, or rather his avatar Parzival, is the first gunter (egg-hunter) to win the Copper Key, first of three.

Halliday was obsessed with the pop culture of the 1980s, primarily the arcade games, so the novel is as much retro as futurist. Parzival’s great strength is that he has absorbed all Halliday’s obsessions; he knows by heart three essential movies, crossing the line from geek to freak. His most formidable competitors are the Sixers, contract gunters working for the evil conglomerate IOI, whose goal is to acquire the OASIS. Cline’s narrative is straightforward but loaded with exposition. It takes a while to reach a scene that crackles with excitement: the meeting between Parzival (now world famous as the lead contender) and Sorrento, the head of IOI. The latter tries to recruit Parzival; when he fails, he issues and executes a death threat. Wade’s trailer is demolished, his relatives killed; luckily Wade was not at home. Too bad this is the dramatic high point. Parzival threads his way between more ’80s games and movies to gain the other keys; it’s clever but not exciting. Even a romance with another avatar and the ultimate “epic throwdown” fail to stir the blood.

Too much puzzle-solving, not enough suspense.

Book review examples for non-fiction books

Nonfiction books are generally written to inform readers about a certain topic. As such, the focus of a nonfiction book review will be on the clarity and effectiveness of this communication . In carrying this out, a book review may analyze the author’s source materials and assess the thesis in order to determine whether or not the book meets expectations.

Again, we’ve included abbreviated versions of long reviews here, so feel free to click on the link to read the entire piece!

The Washington Post reviews David Grann’s Killers of the Flower Moon :

The arc of David Grann’s career reminds one of a software whiz-kid or a latest-thing talk-show host — certainly not an investigative reporter, even if he is one of the best in the business. The newly released movie of his first book, “The Lost City of Z,” is generating all kinds of Oscar talk, and now comes the release of his second book, “Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI,” the film rights to which have already been sold for $5 million in what one industry journal called the “biggest and wildest book rights auction in memory.”

Grann deserves the attention. He’s canny about the stories he chases, he’s willing to go anywhere to chase them, and he’s a maestro in his ability to parcel out information at just the right clip: a hint here, a shading of meaning there, a smartly paced buildup of multiple possibilities followed by an inevitable reversal of readerly expectations or, in some cases, by a thrilling and dislocating pull of the entire narrative rug.

All of these strengths are on display in “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Around the turn of the 20th century, oil was discovered underneath Osage lands in the Oklahoma Territory, lands that were soon to become part of the state of Oklahoma. Through foresight and legal maneuvering, the Osage found a way to permanently attach that oil to themselves and shield it from the prying hands of white interlopers; this mechanism was known as “headrights,” which forbade the outright sale of oil rights and granted each full member of the tribe — and, supposedly, no one else — a share in the proceeds from any lease arrangement. For a while, the fail-safes did their job, and the Osage got rich — diamond-ring and chauffeured-car and imported-French-fashion rich — following which quite a large group of white men started to work like devils to separate the Osage from their money. And soon enough, and predictably enough, this work involved murder. Here in Jazz Age America’s most isolated of locales, dozens or even hundreds of Osage in possession of great fortunes — and of the potential for even greater fortunes in the future — were dispatched by poison, by gunshot and by dynamite. […]

Stacked Books reviews Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers :

I’ve heard a lot of great things about Malcolm Gladwell’s writing. Friends and co-workers tell me that his subjects are interesting and his writing style is easy to follow without talking down to the reader. I wasn’t disappointed with Outliers. In it, Gladwell tackles the subject of success – how people obtain it and what contributes to extraordinary success as opposed to everyday success.

The thesis – that our success depends much more on circumstances out of our control than any effort we put forth – isn’t exactly revolutionary. Most of us know it to be true. However, I don’t think I’m lying when I say that most of us also believe that we if we just try that much harder and develop our talent that much further, it will be enough to become wildly successful, despite bad or just mediocre beginnings. Not so, says Gladwell.

Most of the evidence Gladwell gives us is anecdotal, which is my favorite kind to read. I can’t really speak to how scientifically valid it is, but it sure makes for engrossing listening. For example, did you know that successful hockey players are almost all born in January, February, or March? Kids born during these months are older than the others kids when they start playing in the youth leagues, which means they’re already better at the game (because they’re bigger). Thus, they get more play time, which means their skill increases at a faster rate, and it compounds as time goes by. Within a few years, they’re much, much better than the kids born just a few months later in the year. Basically, these kids’ birthdates are a huge factor in their success as adults – and it’s nothing they can do anything about. If anyone could make hockey interesting to a Texan who only grudgingly admits the sport even exists, it’s Gladwell. […]

Quill and Quire reviews Rick Prashaw’s Soar, Adam, Soar :

Ten years ago, I read a book called Almost Perfect. The young-adult novel by Brian Katcher won some awards and was held up as a powerful, nuanced portrayal of a young trans person. But the reality did not live up to the book’s billing. Instead, it turned out to be a one-dimensional and highly fetishized portrait of a trans person’s life, one that was nevertheless repeatedly dubbed “realistic” and “affecting” by non-transgender readers possessing only a vague, mass-market understanding of trans experiences.

In the intervening decade, trans narratives have emerged further into the literary spotlight, but those authored by trans people ourselves – and by trans men in particular – have seemed to fall under the shadow of cisgender sensationalized imaginings. Two current Canadian releases – Soar, Adam, Soar and This One Looks Like a Boy – provide a pointed object lesson into why trans-authored work about transgender experiences remains critical.

To be fair, Soar, Adam, Soar isn’t just a story about a trans man. It’s also a story about epilepsy, the medical establishment, and coming of age as seen through a grieving father’s eyes. Adam, Prashaw’s trans son, died unexpectedly at age 22. Woven through the elder Prashaw’s narrative are excerpts from Adam’s social media posts, giving us glimpses into the young man’s interior life as he traverses his late teens and early 20s. […]

Book Geeks reviews Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love :

WRITING STYLE: 3.5/5

SUBJECT: 4/5

CANDIDNESS: 4.5/5

RELEVANCE: 3.5/5

ENTERTAINMENT QUOTIENT: 3.5/5

“Eat Pray Love” is so popular that it is almost impossible to not read it. Having felt ashamed many times on my not having read this book, I quietly ordered the book (before I saw the movie) from amazon.in and sat down to read it. I don’t remember what I expected it to be – maybe more like a chick lit thing but it turned out quite different. The book is a real story and is a short journal from the time when its writer went travelling to three different countries in pursuit of three different things – Italy (Pleasure), India (Spirituality), Bali (Balance) and this is what corresponds to the book’s name – EAT (in Italy), PRAY (in India) and LOVE (in Bali, Indonesia). These are also the three Is – ITALY, INDIA, INDONESIA.

Though she had everything a middle-aged American woman can aspire for – MONEY, CAREER, FRIENDS, HUSBAND; Elizabeth was not happy in her life, she wasn’t happy in her marriage. Having suffered a terrible divorce and terrible breakup soon after, Elizabeth was shattered. She didn’t know where to go and what to do – all she knew was that she wanted to run away. So she set out on a weird adventure – she will go to three countries in a year and see if she can find out what she was looking for in life. This book is about that life changing journey that she takes for one whole year. […]

Emily May reviews Michelle Obama’s Becoming on Goodreads:

Look, I'm not a happy crier. I might cry at songs about leaving and missing someone; I might cry at books where things don't work out; I might cry at movies where someone dies. I've just never really understood why people get all choked up over happy, inspirational things. But Michelle Obama's kindness and empathy changed that. This book had me in tears for all the right reasons.

This is not really a book about politics, though political experiences obviously do come into it. It's a shame that some will dismiss this book because of a difference in political opinion, when it is really about a woman's life. About growing up poor and black on the South Side of Chicago; about getting married and struggling to maintain that marriage; about motherhood; about being thrown into an amazing and terrifying position.

I hate words like "inspirational" because they've become so overdone and cheesy, but I just have to say it-- Michelle Obama is an inspiration. I had the privilege of seeing her speak at The Forum in Inglewood, and she is one of the warmest, funniest, smartest, down-to-earth people I have ever seen in this world.

And yes, I know we present what we want the world to see, but I truly do think it's genuine. I think she is someone who really cares about people - especially kids - and wants to give them better lives and opportunities.

She's obviously intelligent, but she also doesn't gussy up her words. She talks straight, with an openness and honesty rarely seen. She's been one of the most powerful women in the world, she's been a graduate of Princeton and Harvard Law School, she's had her own successful career, and yet she has remained throughout that same girl - Michelle Robinson - from a working class family in Chicago.

I don't think there's anyone who wouldn't benefit from reading this book.

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Fourth wing parents guide: is the rebecca yarros series suitable for teens.

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10 Fourth Wing Book Moments We Must See In The Amazon Show

The walking dead risks breaking a 13-year release streak in 2024, young sheldon star admits to feeling bad about missy’s ending fate.

Fourth Wing's steamy sex scenes may not be suitable for younger teenagers due to detailed, explicit content.
Older teens may handle the physical intimacy scenes better, but parental discretion is advised.
The romantasy genre, including Fourth Wing, breaks away from chaste romance with erotic interactions.

Rebecca Yarros' Fourth Wing series has blown up, prompting parents to question how suitable it is for their teenage readers and whether it's appropriate reading material for certain ages . The first book was released in April 2023 and quickly blew up on the bestseller list, particularly after BookTok readers got ahold of it. The love story between Fourth Wing protagonists Violet Sorrengail and Xaden Riorson is a big part of it, particularly their steamy sex scenes.

Fourth Wing has often been compared to A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, thanks to both being huge hits and on the more erotic end of the romantasy genre . Considering that, it's fair to wonder just how suitable it is for readers of certain ages, and at what age a reader might be able to handle Fourth Wing 's sex scenes and adult sexual themes. Of course, every parent is free to make their own decisions, but hopefully, this guide will help inform their opinions.

Amazon is adapting Rebecca Yarros’ Fourth Wing for the small screen, and the series will bring many amazing moments from the book to life.

Fourth Wing's Sexual Content Probably Isn't Suitable For Younger Teenagers

The sex scenes are detailed and specific.

The sexually explicit nature of Fourth Wing 's erotic scenes marks it firmly out-of-bounds for preteens and younger, and it's still a very gray area for younger teenagers who don't yet have the maturity to handle scenes intense physical intimacy. Sarah J. Maas' A Court of Thorns and Roses series has undoubtedly gotten the lion's share of talk for its erotic nature, but Fourth Wing and especially its sequel, Iron Flame , are arguably even more detailed and sexually explicit than Maas' books.

Fourth Wing is a bit tamer, seeing as how it takes a while for protagonist Violet Sorrengail and love interest Xaden Riorson to get over their mutual hatred, accept their attraction, then act on it. In Iron Flame , however, there are no such pretenses of hating each other. As well, part of the story involves them being apart for periods at a time, so the reunion sex scenes are longer, more detailed, and more explicit.

Older Teenagers May Be Able To Handle The Physically Intimate Scenes (At Parents' Discretion)

Fourth wing is explicit - but respectful.

Fourth Wing certainly tells a great story about training with dragons and a kingdom readying itself for war. But it is, first and foremost, a love story between two young people, and it comes with all the passion and drama that the relationships of young people come with. When the story begins, Violet is 20 years old and Xaden is 23. Feelings are more intense, as are the hormonal urges and the libido of each. Older teenagers going through the same feelings can likely handle this part of the book. That said, it's up to each parent how much sexual content they want their teens to have access to, and Fourth Wing is no different.

One thing that Fourth Wing definitely has working in its favor is that protagonist Violet Sorrengail knows herself well and advocates for herself. This is true both for their dynamic in the bedroom, in which Violet always gives consent or initiates sexual intimacy, and for their relationship, in which Violet often is the one laying down ground rules about communication and partnership.

It's not perfect – there are times that both Violet and Xaden can come across less like they're in their early 20s and more like they're teenagers. But Violet stands up for herself and voices what she wants and needs, setting boundaries and advocating agency for herself, something relatively new to romantically inclined YA heroines. This is not the problematic, age-inappropriate relationship of Twilight with a heroine who has no idea how to speak up for herself. In that, Violet is a good role model for teenage readers.

Fourth Wing Is Part Of The Romantasy Genre (& What That Is)

It's a relatively new term (& genre).

Savvy parents may have seen the term "romantasy" popping up on the internet in the past few years after the proliferation of Sarah J. Maas' work on BookTok. It's a portmanteau of "romance" and "fantasy," but it can be a misleading term for those who expect the romance to be more chaste like teen-oriented books of past generations. The romance in the romantasy genre can be a lot closer to the Harlequin notion of romance , complete with erotic interactions and sexually explicit scenes. Fantasy is no longer the realm of young readers or Dungeons & Dragons. With books like Fourth Wing , it's now for curious older teens and adult women looking for an escape, too.

Fourth Wing

Based on the novel series by Rebecca Yarros, Fourth Wing is an action-adventure fantasy series in development for Prime Video. Announced in 2024, Fourth Wing will follow the adventures of a young woman named Violet Sorrengail, who has been taken from her peaceful book-reading life and thrust into a world of danger when she is forced by her mother to join an elite group of dragon-riding warriors.

Food & Function

Milk fat globule membrane and their polar lipids: reviewing preclinical and clinical trials on cognition.

In most parts of the world, life expectancy is increasing thanks to improved healthcare, public health policies, nutrition, and treatment. This increase in lifespan is often not accompanied by an increase in health span, which severely affects people as they age. One notable consequence of this is the increasing prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases such as mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, dietary and pharmaceutical measures must be taken to reduce the burden of such pathologies. Among the different types of nutrients found in the diet, lipids and especially polar lipids are very important for cognition due to their abundance in the brain. Amid the most studied sources of polar lipids, milk fat globule membranes (MFGM) stand out as they are abundant in industrial by-products such as buttermilk. In this narrative review, we discuss the latest, i.e. less than four years old, scientific evidence on the use of MFGM and its polar lipids in cognitive neurodevelopment in early life and their potential effect in preventing neurodegeneration in old age. We conclude that MFGMs are an interesting, abundant and exploitable source of relatively inexpensive bioactive molecules that could be properly formulated and utilized in the areas of neurodevelopment and cognitive decline. Sufficiently large randomized controlled trials are required before health-related statements can be made. However, research in this area is progressing rapidly and the evidence gathered points to biological, health-promoting effects

This article is part of the themed collection: Food & Function Review Articles 2024

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A. Luque-Uría, M. V. Calvo, F. Visioli and J. FONTECHA, Food Funct. , 2024, Accepted Manuscript , DOI: 10.1039/D4FO00659C

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Caleb Carr, Author of Dark Histories, Dies at 68

His own dark history prompted him to write about and investigate the roots of violence, notably in his best-selling novel “The Alienist.”

A photo of a man in a blazer, sweater vest, shirt and tie. He has a gray beard, shoulder-length hair and rimless glasses, and sits on a deck in a chair draped in a fur. He holds a sword on his shoulder and looks off camera.

By Penelope Green

Caleb Carr, a military historian and author whose experience of childhood abuse drove him to explore the roots of violence — most famously in his 1994 best seller, “The Alienist,” a period thriller about the hunt for a serial killer in 19th-century Manhattan — died on Thursday at his home in Cherry Plain, N.Y. He was 68.

The cause was cancer, his brother Ethan Carr said.

Mr. Carr was 39 when he published “The Alienist,” an atmospheric detective story about a child psychiatrist — or an alienist, as those who studied the mind were called in the 1890s — who investigates the murders of young male prostitutes by using forensic psychiatry, which was an unorthodox method at the time.

Mr. Carr had first pitched the book as nonfiction; it wasn’t, but it read that way because of the exhaustive research he did into the period. He rendered the dank horrors of Manhattan’s tenement life, its sadistic gangs and the seedy brothels that were peddling children, as well as the city’s lush hubs of power, like Delmonico’s restaurant. And he peopled his novel with historical figures like Theodore Roosevelt, who was New York’s reforming police commissioner before his years in the White House. Even Jacob Riis had a cameo.

Up to that point, Mr. Carr had been writing, with modest success, on military matters. He had contributed articles to The Quarterly Journal of Military History, and he had written, with James Chace, a book about national security and, on his own, a well-received biography of an American soldier of fortune who became a Chinese military hero in the mid-19th century.

Mr. Carr had also been a regular contributor to the letters page of The New York Times; he notably once chastised Henry Kissinger for what Mr. Carr characterized as his outdated theories of international diplomacy. He was 19 at the time.

“The Alienist” was an immediate hit and earned glowing reviews. Even before it was published, the movie rights were snapped up by the producer Scott Rudin for half a million dollars. (The paperback rights sold for more than a million.)

“You can practically hear the clip-clop of horses’ hooves echoing down old Broadway,” Christopher Lehmann-Haupt wrote in his review in The Times . “You can taste the good food at Delmonico’s. You can smell the fear in the air.”

Magazine writers were captivated by Mr. Carr’s downtown cool — he lived on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, had been in a local punk band, wore black high-top sneakers and had shoulder-length hair — and by his literary provenance. His father was Lucien Carr, a journalist who was muse to and best friends with Beat royalty: the writers Jack Kerouac, William S. Burroughs and Allen Ginsberg. Beautiful and charismatic as a young man, “Lou was the glue,” Ginsberg once said, that held the group together.

The elder Mr. Carr was also an alcoholic, and Caleb grew up in bohemian chaos. The Carr household was the scene of drunken revelries, and much worse. Mr. Carr raged at his wife and three sons. But he directed his most terrifying outbursts at Caleb, his middle child, whom he singled out for physical abuse.

Caleb’s parents divorced when he was 8. But the beatings continued for years.

“There’s no question that I have a lifelong fascination with violence,” Caleb Carr told Stephen Dubner of New York magazine in 1994 , just before “The Alienist” was published, explaining not just the engine for the book but why he was drawn to military history. “Part of it was a desire to find violence that was, in the first place, directed toward some purposeful end, and second, governed by a definable ethical code. And I think it’s fairly obvious why I would want to do that.”

Lucien Carr had also been abused. Growing up in St. Louis, he was sexually molested by his Boy Scout master, a man named David Kammerer who followed him to the East Coast, where Lucien entered Columbia University and met Kerouac, Ginsberg and Burroughs. One drunken night in 1944, Mr. Carr killed his longtime predator in Riverside Park, stabbing him with his Boy Scout knife and rolling him into the Hudson River. Kerouac helped him dispose of the knife. Lucien turned himself in the next day and served two years for manslaughter in a reformatory.

The killing was a cause célèbre, and became a kind of origin story for the history of the Beats . Kerouac and Burroughs rendered it in purple prose in a novel they archly titled “And the Hippos Were Boiled in Their Tanks,” which was rejected by publishers and then mired in legalities before finally being published in 2008, when all the principals were dead. (It was panned by Michiko Kakutani in The Times.) In 2013, it was the subject of a film, “Kill Your Darlings,” starring Daniel Radcliffe as Allen Ginsberg.

Caleb Carr and his family found “Kill Your Darlings” more than flawed, taking issue with the film’s thesis that Lucien was a conflicted gay man in a repressive society — and that Kammerer was the victim and their relationship was consensual.

“My father fit perfectly ‘the cycle of abuse,’” Mr. Carr told an interviewer at the time . “Of all the terrible things that Kammerer did, perhaps the worst was to teach him this, to teach him that the most fundamental way to form bonds was through abuse.”

He added: “When I confronted him many years later about his extreme violence toward me, after I had entered therapy, he at length asked (after denying that such violence had occurred for as long as he could, then conceding it), ‘Doesn’t that mean that there’s a special bond between us?’ And I remember that my blood had never run quite that cold.”

Caleb Carr was born on Aug. 2, 1955, in Manhattan. His father, after being released from the reformatory, worked as a reporter and editor for United Press International, where he met Francesca von Hartz, a reporter. They married in 1952 and had three sons, Simon, Caleb and Ethan. After they divorced a decade later, Ms. von Hartz married John Speicher, an editor and novelist with three daughters. The couple and their six children moved to a loft on East 14th Street, a dangerous area in the late 1960s and ’70s. It was another chaotic household overseen by alcoholics, and the children often referred to themselves as “the dark Brady Bunch.”

Caleb attended Friends Seminary, a Quaker school in the East Village, where his interest in military history made him an outlier and a misfit. His high school transcript described him as “socially undesirable.” After graduating, he attended Kenyon College in Ohio and then New York University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree and studied military and diplomatic history.

In 1997, Mr. Carr published “The Angel of Darkness,” a sequel to “The Alienist.” It featured many of the same characters, who reunite to investigate the case of a missing child. It, too, was a best seller, “as winning a historical thriller” as its predecessor, The Times’s Mr. Lehmann-Haupt wrote .

Mr. Carr was the author of 11 books, including “The Italian Secretary” (2005), a Sherlock Holmes mystery commissioned by the estate of Arthur Conan Doyle; “Surrender, New York” (2016), a well-reviewed contemporary crime procedural that nonetheless sold poorly; and “Lessons of Terror: A History of Warfare Against Civilians” (2002), which he wrote in the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks.

Even in those pre-Twitter days, “Lessons of Terror” caused an internet ruckus. It was at once vociferously praised and bashed — and became a best seller, to boot — and Mr. Carr derided his critics on Amazon. Many challenged his contention that some “conventional” warfare — like General Sherman’s barbarism during the Civil War and Israel’s behavior toward the Palestinians — was equivalent to terrorism, a thesis that annoyed military historians , as well as The Times’s Ms. Kakutani .

What propelled Mr. Carr in all his work was the origins of violence, the mysteries of nature and nurture. In his own life, he was determined to end the cycle of his family’s dark legacy by not having children. That choice restricted his romantic life, and as he got older, he grew more solitary. When he bought 1,400 acres in Rensselaer County, N.Y., in 2000, and built himself a house near a ridge called Misery Mountain, he became even more so.

“I have a grim outlook on the world, and in particular on humanity,” he told Joyce Wadler of The Times in 2005 . “I spent years denying it, but I am very misanthropic. And I live alone on a mountain for a reason.”

His last book, published in April, was “My Beloved Monster: Masha, the Half-Wild Rescue Cat Who Rescued Me.” It’s both a memoir of his time there and a love story to the creature who was his most constant and sustaining companion during the last decades of his life.

“But how could you live for such a long time,” he said friends asked him, “alone on a mountain with just a cat?” He took umbrage at the phrase “just a cat.”

“It needs to be understood that, for Masha, I was always enough,” he wrote. “How I lived, what I chose to do, my very nature — all were good enough for her.”

Masha, like her human roommate, had suffered physical abuse at some point, and as Mr. Carr and his companion aged, their early horrors had devastating physical repercussions. Mr. Carr’s beatings had created scar tissue in his organs that led to other serious ailments. They were each diagnosed with cancer, but Masha died first.

In addition to his brother Ethan, Mr. Carr is survived by another brother, Simon; his stepsisters, Hilda, Jennifer and Christine Speicher; and his mother, now known as Francesca Cote. Lucien Carr died in 2005.

Despite the early hoopla, “The Alienist” never made it to the big screen. Producers wanted to turn it into a love story or otherwise alter Mr. Carr’s creation. But after decades of fits and starts, i t found a home on television , and in 2018 it was seen as a 10-episode mini-series on TNT. James Poniewozik of The Times called it “lush, moody, a bit stiff.” But it was mostly a success, reaching 50 million viewers and earning six Emmy Award nominations. (It won one, for special visual effects.)

“If I had known that nothing would have come out of this book other than the advance,” Mr. Carr said in 1994 as “The Alienist” was poised for publication, “I still would have written it exactly the same. But if you were to ask me to trade this book, this whole career and have my childhood be different, I probably would.”

An earlier version of this obituary misstated part of the name of the hamlet in New York State where Mr. Carr lived. It is Cherry Plain, not Cherry Plains.

How we handle corrections

Penelope Green is a Times reporter on the Obituaries desk. More about Penelope Green

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To help readers find the right book for them by age, genre, literary review, and content. Compass Book Ratings Provides a standardized rating system so everyone can more easily evaluate their reading options. Theses book reviews are for parents, teachers, librarians, readers, and anyone looking for a book that best fits their preferences for ...
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What age is the book aimed at? Sometimes a book's target age group is obvious but broad. For example, the superb coming-of-age bestseller Wonder is targeted to ages 8-12 (per the book jacket), but with its sophisticated themes about the mainstreaming of a boy with facial deformities and the middle school setting, we rated it for age 11 and up ...
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What Makes a Book 'Age Appropriate'? BY Laura Simeon • April 27, 2022. Reviews of books for young people in trade journals conclude with suggested age ranges. As battles over so-called "inappropriate" content in kids' and teen books heat up—debates that crystallize conflicts over changing societal values—school librarians ...
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Book Rating System. We developed this rating system to provide a means of assessing the appropriateness of a book for a child or young adult, based on the content of the book. This rating system is meant to be a quick guide for busy parents who want to know what objectionable material is found between a book's covers. Our reports include a wide ...
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A Guide to Age-Appropriate Books: Unraveling the Bookshelf Dilemma. Nov 27, 2023. Choosing age-appropriate books can sometimes feel like navigating a maze, especially when you're juggling the demands of a busy schedule. As a former elementary school teacher turned book enthusiast for busy moms, I've got your back.
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avg rating 4.07 — 84,033 ratings — published 2021. Want to Read. Rate this book. 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars. Books shelved as age-appropriate: Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi, The Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson, Red Queen by Victoria Ave...
Bookfinder: find children's books for every age
You've come to the right place. Our Bookfinder will help you discover the very best kids' books: magical mysteries, astonishing adventures and fantastic facts. Simply choose an age range, pick as many themes as you want to search through thousands of book reviews, and get reading. Enjoy!
How to Find the Best Age-Appropriate Books for Kids
10-13-year-olds. Ann M Martin's The Baby-Sitters Club series. Jamie Suzanne's Sweet Valley Twins series. David Walliams' books. David Badiell's books. RJ Palacio's Wonder. Erin Hunter's Warriors series. Carolyn Keene's Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew. Lisa McMann's The Unwanteds series.
Choosing the Right Books: A Guide to Selecting Age-Appropriate
Age-appropriate books ensure that the content, themes, and language are tailored to match a child's level of understanding and maturity. ... Firstly, reputable book review websites such as Goodreads, Booklist, and Kirkus Reviews are excellent resources to consult. These platforms often feature reviews from both professional critics and fellow ...
Decoding Book Age-Appropriateness: A Handy Guide
By Screen It First August 12, 2023. As parents and educators, it's crucial to ensure that the books children read are age-appropriate, providing them with the right balance of challenge and understanding. Here are some practical tips to help you determine if a book is suitable for your child's age. Always start by sifting through book ...
Books for Teens
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, Book 1. age 13+. Eerie gothic fantasy a satisfying creep fest for teens. By: Ransom Riggs (2011) See full review. BOOK.
How to Choose Age-Appropriate Books for Young Readers (Ages 4-10)
In-Depth Tip: Look for books that use language at your child's level or slightly above to help develop their vocabulary. Avoid books with complex jargon or adult themes disguised as children's humor. Practical Guidance: Skim through reviews on popular sites like Amazon, Barnes & Nobles, and Good Reads.
Children's Books By Age
Discover the best middle grade children's books for young readers ages 9 to 12. Just like at earlier ages, try to find books that interest each child, boy or girl, by theme, topic, or genre. Once your readers love reading books for pleasure, encourage them to broaden the books that they're reading with new topics and genres.
Discover Great Books for Kids Ages 4-8
In this section of The Children's Book Review's online reading oasis, our reviews and book lists cover a wide variety of subjects: picture books to chapter books, funny books, sports books, biographies, books about dinosaurs, books about ballet, mysteries, and, well, you get the idea—just about any kind of book suitable for kids ages 4-8.
17 Book Review Examples to Help You Write the Perfect Review
It is a fantasy, but the book draws inspiration from the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Rape of Nanking. Crime Fiction Lover reviews Jessica Barry's Freefall, a crime novel: In some crime novels, the wrongdoing hits you between the eyes from page one. With others it's a more subtle process, and that's OK too.
Fourth Wing Parents Guide: Is The Rebecca Yarros Series Suitable For Teens?
Rebecca Yarros' Fourth Wing series has blown up, prompting parents to question how suitable it is for their teenage readers and whether it's appropriate reading material for certain ages.The first book was released in April 2023 and quickly blew up on the bestseller list, particularly after BookTok readers got ahold of it.
Common Sense Media: Age-Based Media Reviews for Families
Common Sense is the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of all kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in the 21st century. Common Sense Media is the leading source of entertainment and technology recommendations for families.
Book Review: 'In Tongues,' by Thomas Grattan
Thomas Grattan's queer coming-of-age novel "In Tongues" unfurls in the Manhattan art world at the turn of the millennium. Credit...Lucas Burtin Supported by By Rumaan Alam Rumaan Alam's ...
The Best Crime Novels of 2024 (So Far)
An assault led to Chanel Miller's best seller, "Know My Name," but she had wanted to write children's books since the second grade. She's done that now with "Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All."
How We Rate and Review
We review all of the high-profile media that's intended for or appeals to kids. And because media profoundly affects kids' social, emotional, and physical development, Common Sense Media evaluates media based on age appropriateness. We rate titles for ages 2 to 18, covering movies, games, books, podcasts, apps, websites, and TV shows that range ...
Milk fat globule membrane and their polar lipids: reviewing preclinical
In most parts of the world, life expectancy is increasing thanks to improved healthcare, public health policies, nutrition, and treatment. This increase in lifespan is often not accompanied by an increase in health span, which severely affects people as they age. One notable consequence of this is the increa Food & Function Review Articles 2024
Caleb Carr, Author of Dark Histories, Dies at 68
Mr. Carr was the author of 11 books, including "The Italian Secretary" (2005), a Sherlock Holmes mystery commissioned by the estate of Arthur Conan Doyle; "Surrender, New York" (2016), a ...
Movie Reviews, Kids Movies
Family Laughs. Common Sense is the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of all kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in the 21st century. Read age-appropriate movie reviews for kids and parents written by our experts.