Goldilocks and the Three Bears When I think o finding a book that is just right it makes me think of the story Goldilocks and the Three Bears. In the story Goldilocks goes through many items in the bears’ house that are too hot, too high, or too soft. But she always finds one that is just right.

Stop and Think About Purpose  Think about why you are searching out a book  Stop and think “what do I need this book for?”  Is it for a specific purpose?  Do you need some information, or do you want a great book to read on your own?

Ask Around!!  Ask your friends, parents, librarian, SOMEONE  Find out what books they’re reading and what they think. They will have some interesting recommendations.  After you’ve read the book, talk about it.  Share your favorite parts of the book

Do Some Investigating  Look a book over before you borrow it from a library or purchase it.  Examine the book  Flip through it front to back, back to front  Look at the cover, examine the book jacket  Look for photos and illustrations on the cover and see if there are any visuals inside the book  Read the “blurb,” a short description of the book written inside the front flap of the book jacket to get some idea of what the book is about.

Always Remember  UNDERSTANDING IS THE KEY!  If you didn’t understand it or like it…move on!

Try the “five finger” test  If you think the book may be too hard for you, try the five finger test.  Read the first page or chapter one in a book.  Put one finger on every word you don’t know. Keep your fingers on those words.  If you use all five fingers of one hand on one page of the book, you may be in for a challenge. Think about what to do next……

Find other books by your favorite authors and illustrators  Many authors have written more than one book. If you enjoyed one book by an author, you will probably like another book by the same author.  Usually you can find a list of author’s publications in the book before the title page.  Librarians and teachers can also help you find other books by your favorite author.

Enjoy Picture Books  You are never too old for books illustrated with drawings, paintings, and photographs!  Many picture books are written for everyone, kids, teens, and grown-ups to enjoy  You’re never too old for books on poetry, fairy tales, and folktales.  Try to challenge yourself by finding a new discovery each time…focus on the story, but also on how the pictures and text interact.

Don’t worry about the length of a book  Don’t worry about how short or how long a books is.  The length of a book has nothing to do with how good a books is.  The most important thing is that you like the book.

Learn the genres that you like!  If you are really into fantasy, that will help you narrow down your future book searches.  Do a little research to learn what genres of books are your favorites.  It’s always nice to try something new, but knowing your favorites can have its advantages!

Always ask yourself….  Can I understand this book?  UNDERSTANDING IS THE KEY!!!!