Literacy

Solway Staff are often asked for Book Recommendations for their students. Much like us adults, the transition from a series or author that we know we really enjoy, to the risky nature of trying something previously unread, can be daunting for students. Some hints and tricks to help your readers’ branch out might include:

A book battle:

1. Begin with a visit to the physical or virtual library. This is the ultimate in try before you buy.
2.  Borrow many authors and titles (Children will often pick based on the cover!) and then once home begin by just reading the blurb of each.
3. Rank these books from the one they are most keen to read to the least. You may wish to cull a few here.
4. Then read only the first page on each book.
5. Again, re rank, including culling any books that haven’t taken your child’s interest.
6. This time read just the first chapter and again re rank/ cull.
7. Take a vote for the final 3 books and decide which to give a week of reading time to just try.
8. There is always the option to go back down the list if the winning book doesn’t end up working out.
9. Once you are onto an author or series you like, then librarian can often help by suggesting other books or authors that might be similar.

There are many places to look for reading recommendations for your child. 

Scholastic - https://www.scholastic.com/parents/books-and-reading.html

Premier’s Reading Challenge Book List - https://vprc.eduweb.vic.gov.au/searchbooklist

Readings - https://www.readings.com.au/news/our-january-2024-childrens-and-young-adult-bestsellers#

Books for Topics - https://www.booksfortopics.com/

Dymocks - https://www.dymocks.com.au/promotions/kids-top-51

Story Box Library - https://storyboxlibrary.com.au/login

Boroondara Library - https://www.boroondara.vic.gov.au/services/libraries/digital-resources/reading-resources/all-booklists

Happy borrowing!

Sarah Watkins

Acting Assistant Principal/Literacy Specialist