Comics to Classics: A Parent's Guide to Books for Teens and Preteens($104.39Value)

Description

Provides an annotated list of recommended books, explains how to get children interested in reading, and includes advice on selecting and buying books Comics to Classics is a textbook for parents who wish to help their teenage children retain ' the reading habit. As the author states, "the peak of interest in reading often occurs around age twelve." After that, for a variety of reasons, many teenagers lose interest in books. "Part One7 defines the characteristics and needs of preteens (and teem in general) and the relevant psychological terms and, then, relates these criteria to reading. Stages of reading development are considered. The egocentric stage, wherein children want to read about characters who are like themselves, may grow into an aesthetic stage in which a wide variety of books are enjoyed. Parents can help in developing this process, but must "never push." The author comments that "most literature programs in middle, junior, and senior high schools do not encourage the reading of young-adult books. In fact, many of these programs require reading of classics that are far removed from the egocentric needs of young readers." Most valuable is the annotated bibliography listing more than five hundred books. This list can be consulted again and again. A criticism relevant for Small Press readers is that only books published by trade houses are included. (An appendix lists publishers with addresses.) Since small-press children's books are a relatively new development on the publishing scene, this may be understandable. But this reviewer hopes that subsequent booklists selected by International Reading Association will recognize some of the beautiful and stimulating works being published by alternative presses. Other sections discuss sharing books in the family and where to borrow and buy books. This useful, well-organized guide is recommended for parents, teachers, librarians, and writers of young adult literature. -- From Independent Publisher Used Book in Good Condition