5Ws+1H: What It's About: Finding books for young children can be difficult

Feb. 6—While some people enjoy reading, others — especially kids — can have a difficult time finding literature they like.

Too Fond of Books Manager Sierra Salem said when it comes to picking out a book for a child who is just starting to read, the buyer can look to hobbies and interests.

"One of the first questions I always like to ask is, 'What are they interested in?' A lot of kids that age have a special interest they like, [such as] bears, horses, trucks, or something like that," Salem said.

Salem said books for the age 4-8 range can be anywhere from the classics of Dr. Seuss to series based on Netflix shows, like "Trash Truck" by Max Keane.

While Salem likes to build off of the interests of a child when helping find a book, she said some pieces of literature are standard favorites. Books by Jory John, who created the series featuring the "The Bad Seed" and "The Sour Grape," are among the examples.

"The illustrations in them are really good," Salem said. "They're really cute and they tend to be funny, so they are my go-to recommendation."

When it comes to children's books, Salem said those with funny themes, like "Dragons Eating Tacos," can help keep the attention of the child.

"I found they tend to be more willing to read it or listen to it if it's funny, and doubley so if they're interested in it," Salem said.

Books like "Dogman" and the graphic novel version of "The Babysitter Club," are often favorites of older kids, as Salem said most gravitate toward a funny and relatable book that is also a graphic novel. Even though not every child wants to read a graphic novel, Salem said it can be a "step in the right direction," as the kid has demonstrated a desire to read, and that can generate interest in other types of literature.

"I've tried to branch out and get some things that aren't graphic novels, but it seems to be like a nice step between all picture book and all chapter book," Salem said.

For older kids who are already reading on their own and are having a difficult time picking out their next read, Salem said she always sticks to the inquiry about their interests. Salem said kids can also see what their peers are reading, or talk to their teacher or local librarian about other books they may like.

"I believe if the kid is reading anything, that tends to be a good sign," Salem said. "I tend to believe that if they are willing to read [graphic novels] then they might be willing to branch out and read other things later on."

Those looking to determine if a book is age- or grade-level appropriate can go to the American Library Association at www.ala.org.