In this episode, I spoke with Villa di Maria's reading specialist, Grace Beermann, about what kind of books are best for the young, elementary (ages 6-12) reader. Many children are interested in graphic novels, and there are so many great ones out there, but is this the best type of book to develop new readers? Grace draws on her training in children’s literature and her experience as a Children’s House guide and as a children’s book reviewer to tackle this topic and shares multiple studies to support her thoughts. Be sure to check out this episode if you’re wanting to support your emerging reader, to help them enjoy reading. If you’d like to learn more about this topic, you can reach out to Grace at her email, graceb@villdimaria.org. Below, you'll find some of her book recommendations and sources. As always, we appreciate when you leave us a positive review and share us with friends. Thank you!

Sources for good books:

The Hornbook

School Library Journal

American Library Association List of Book Awards

Betsy Bird Fuse 8 Productions blog on SLJ

Recommended Authors and Illustrators:

Julie Fogliano “My Best Friend”

Christian Robertson “Last Stop on Market Street”, “Another”

Julie Flett

Emily Jenkins (a.k.a. E. Lockhart)

Neil Gaiman

Kate Messner for all ages (great nonfiction picture book series called “Over and Under…”)

Jason Reynolds (for older kids)

Christina Soontornvat for middle grade and early elementary novels

Lauren Wolk has wonderful domestic/historical American fiction

Steve Sheinkin for high quality nonfiction

Meg Medina for all ages

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