A review by luann
What to Read When: The Books and Stories to Read with Your Child--and All the Best Times to Read Them by Pam Allyn

3.0

I like her three levels of books: uphill books, level books, and downhill books. She says: "Downhill books appear "easy" but are actually critical for your kids in terms of building their reading abilities. They can read them quickly and the books are generally on topics of interest or comfort for your kids." I've come across so many teachers and even librarians who either refuse to let older students read picture books or they STRONGLY discourage it. I don't think older students should be reading picture books all the time, but I don't think they should be told it's wrong. I like that Allyn says they are "critical for ... building reading abilities." She also encourages reading aloud to kids at all three levels. She says, "Hearing books read aloud at different levels is helpful and important because it builds your children's fluency levels, stamina levels, and comprehension levels." I think we should worry a whole lot less about WHAT kids are reading and just encourage them to read, read, read. All reading is good!