Would your son or daughter rather eat SPINACH than read a book?  Could sitting down and reading a book be the worst punishment imaginable?

Maybe the right “match” just hasn't been found yet – that one book that’s going to catch and hold your child’s attention, hooking them into the wonders found in the world of books.

Do they like slimy bugs, slithering snakes, or anything ghastly, gory, or gross? Is your child a sports fiend? Car crazy? Or just intimidated by pages full of words?

Many authors of juvenile books see this audience as a challenge, and great strides have been made in creating stories that will attract the attention of even the MOST reluctant reader. Classics, such as The Baby-Sitters Club, The Hardy Boys, and the Nancy Drew Mysteries, have been re-created as graphic novels for today’s audience. Some readers find this comic-book format much less intimidating.

Sometimes a favorite character will reappear in other books, making “series” books a popular choice. Series such as The Magic Tree House, Geronimo Stilton, Junie B. Jones, Judy Moody, Dan Gutman’s My Weird School, the Joey Pigza books, or Jennifer Holm’s Babymouse series are some favorites among our juvenile readers.

Some reluctant readers are more attracted to nonfiction books – “real life” stories that catch and hold their attention.  Books in the I Survived series, written by Lauren Tarshis, tell terrifying and thrilling stories from history, “through the eyes of a kid who lived to tell the tale.” Different awards, such as the Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Medal, recognize exceptional books and authors of nonfiction books for children.

Browse through the Texas Library Association's recommended reading lists such as the 2x2s, the Bluebonnet Award books, and the Lone Stars, or national award lists such as the Caldecotts or the Newbery Medal winners.

Whatever your child’s interests may be, just check with one of our youth librarians for book suggestions – they’ll love the challenge!