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“By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; and by knowledge
the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” ~Proverbs 24:3-4

How To Choose A Good Book

“All books are divisible into two classes: the books of the hour, and the books of all time.” ~John Ruskin

Children of all ages prefer the aliveness of real literature, a.k.a. “living books.” When we make reading a chore for a child or give them boring books to read, we are taking away the pleasure aspect that makes them want to read. Living books are well-written and engaging. They absorb the reader because the narrative and characters “come alive.”

Some people feel it doesn’t matter what kids read, as long as they’re reading something. But wouldn’t it be so much better to read great literature that sets a good example? Reading well-written literature will inspire children to be good writers. When new vocabulary is acquired from books they have read, children can incorporate it into their own writings. Good literature demonstrates proper grammar and word usage. Reading, spelling, and writing all naturally work together.

Just because a book is on a library shelf does not mean it is great literature, and you can’t judge a book by its cover. Too many mediocre, poor quality books have been written for children. So how do you decide which children’s books are good and which ones are not? The following criteria can be used to judge a book.

  • Does the book have child appeal?
  • Does the book have literary value?
  • Does the text stand alone, regardless of illustrations?
  • Does the book have a meaningful theme and a memorable style?
  • Does the book have a good plot and believable characters?
  • Does the book have a well-crafted setting that is accurate in detail?
  • Does the author use language and dialogue that is suitable for the subject, time period, and child’s maturity level?
  • Does the book emphasize a Biblical worldview or Judeo-Christian point of view?
  • Does the book provide clear standards of right and wrong?
  • Does the book convey a truth or teach a moral lesson?
  • Does the book demonstrate godly examples that encourage good works?
  • Does the book exemplify love, loyalty, kindness, courage, humor, or other worthy characteristics and values?
  • Does the book contribute to a child’s wisdom, merriment, or appreciation of beauty?
  • Does the book broaden a child’s horizons, give him new sympathies and understanding, or open his insight into human relationships?
  • Does the book nourish the intellect and inspire the imagination?
  • Does the book have a timeless quality?
  • Does the book cross age barriers to be enjoyed by all?

    “Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)

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