From: HarrySpenc at aol.com <HarrySpenc>
Date: Mon, 22 Oct 2001 23:46:01 EDT

I always dread the time when good readers decide they ought to be reading chapter books. Teachers and parents are impressed when these kids read long books, so they want to do it even if it isn't what they might enjoy the most.
 I'm with Robin: We should keep pushing picture books for the good readers in the primary grades. Besides, Bartholomew and the Oobleck isn't all that short. (One of my favorites from when I was in second grade)

They will eventually want to branch out though, and many chapter books have themes that are just too complex for second graders. Here are a few that haven't been mentioned that are age appropriate.

Mr. Popper's Penguins - Clearly a book with third grade appeal that isn't too easy. I've seen it listed as a sixth grade reading level. Sable, by Karen Hesse, is a big hit with the dog lovers. Horse stories by Marguerite Henry are still popular with a certain group.

My oldest daughter is in fourth grade now. She went through the series stage in second grade with Pokemon, Pixie Tricks, Scooby Doo (Aaugh! I could hardly stand it) and the Magic Tree House. Other authors that helped with the transition to longer, more complex books were Clyde Robert Bulla and Ruth Chew. Now, she's 9 and there's no stopping her. J.K. Rowling, Gail Carson Levine, Brian Jacques and Eva Ibbotson are her authors of choice these days, though when a new Magic Tree House comes out, she still wants to read it.

I have really enjoyed the discussion this month. When I'm working with these transitional readers, I always wish there were more books in the category. Thanks to everyone for all the suggestions.

Bridget Hill Harry Spence Elementary La Crosse, WI
Received on Mon 22 Oct 2001 10:46:01 PM CDT