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Health & Fitness

Great Books That Even the Reluctant Reader Will Enjoy

I just love the books I am profiling today!!  However, I always feel a little nervous doing a blog post with reluctant readers in the title because I think I will alienate other readers from these books. 

I have to tell you that I never pick books that are dumbed down for kids who don't like to read.  I pick great stories that embody certain characteristics that make them more paletable for non readers.  I thought that perhaps it was time to share some of the traits I look for:

Shorter Chapters - Since each chapter is a little story unto itself, having chapters that are not as long gives non readers a greater sense of accomplishment.  Also, a long chapter, especially before the story has gotten interesting, can be intimidating and turn kids off to the book entirely.

Font/Picture Placement - Do not discount how important the font, page size and picture placement are when reading a book.  Even I get turned off when the font is too small or the page size is ackward.  Reluctant readers need an average or larger font size or that page can feel pretty overwhelming.  Pictures aren't necessary, but when they are used effectively they help break up the narrative and get kids to visualize the story.

Action Driven - When a book has you on the edge of your seat, you don't want to put it down.  Not all books have to be a non stop thrill ride, but books that build up the suspense which spurs kids on to the next chapter, help them move through the book.  A book that compels you to read on can keep a reluctant reader going.

Humor - Let's face it, we all like to laugh.  When a book brings humor into the mix, kids are more likely to stay with it and feel connected to the story.  A good guffaw can turn a reluctant reader around. I've seen it happen time and time again.

So today I am giving you some fabulous books.  It just so happens that reluctant readers may find them a can't put down read as well.  How great is that?  I am actually a little impressed with myself right now.  I know .... just give me the moment!

To see all my book recommendations this week, visit my blog at www.onegreatbook.com

Title:       Peak

Author:   Roland Smith

Target:    Grades  5-8

Series:     No

What this book is about:

Peak is the son of two climbers.  When he gets in trouble for scaling tall buildings in New York City, the only way to stay out of the Juvenile Detention Center is to join his father who is preparing a team to climb Mount Everest.  Peak hasn’t spoken to his father in years, and it appears that his father’s enthusiasm for taking him along has less to do with catching up, than making his son the youngest climber to reach the peak.  However, Peak can’t resist the allure of the biggest climbing challenge and so he tries to make history.

Why I love this book:

The ending in this book is not a given, which makes it incredibly exciting.  I was absolutely hooked to see if Peak makes it to the top (and no - I will give nothing away!)  

However, what makes this book better than just an exciting adventure is what we learn about the mountain and the Tibetans who risk their lives for these climbers.  I thought I knew a little about Everest, but this book taught me so much more.  It is part history lesson, part climbing primer and part adventure. 

Who this book is for:

Great adventure book.  I think most kids, especially boys, will gravitate towards this story.

Final thoughts:

This book is a winner on so many levels!

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