Summer Reading 2012

[Editor1]

We've published a new article, in conjunction with Battle of the Books Hong Kong, highlighting some of the best in children's literature.

Our summer reading recommendations have been pulled directly from the BOBHK book list. But we want to know your recommendations for casual summer reading as well.

Are there any stories, authors or genres that your child simply cannot get enough of?

 

[GeoDerek]

The following commentary comes via Chair of the Battle of the Books Committee and long-time librarian Janet Mann.

Titles on the Secondary list may have text that is relatively easy to read, but the concept might be difficult, or too mature for younger readers.

This is certainly the case with 'Shadow of the Minotaur' which should be rated 11+ at the very least - it's quite dark.

Parents like to stretch their kids' reading and encourage them to read above their age, especially here in HK, but younger readers just don't have the maturity to tackle some ideas, and it could actually put them off reading altogether.

'Shakespeare's Secret' on the other hand, should be encouraged for slightly older readers - say 9-14. It's an easy read text-wise, but the older reader may get more interested in the 'Shakespeare' part of the story and be encouraged to do some wider reading afterwards.

We've amended several age recommendations in light of this, but still encourage parents to challenge young readers.

If a book is recommended for older children parents can bridge the age gap by reading the book with their child.

This can be done by reading to a child out loud, or reading the book individually and discussing the book's events together.