[LM_NET] Reading level for Sweethearts

[Naomi Bates <nbates@NISDTX.ORG>]

I had several requests for what reading level and that's an interesting 
question.... as a list, what do you think creates a reading level?  Do you go 
toward the ones published by companies or the ones recommended by reviewers?  Do 
you go to your community and/or administration to guide where a book lands, or do 
you use professional tools and judgment?  

What some people may be looking for that are in the book:
Characters are seniors in high school, there is some sexuality in there, but Zarr 
writes these scenes with aplomb and grace.  There is a party involving alcohol.  

I understand why people ask this question (what grade level?) and this must be the 
top one I receive when doing YA booktalking workshops.  But it is my belief that if 
you are truly interested in a book but are questioning the grade level, please read 
it.  The best judge of where a book should be placed in your school, which students 
can handle situations found in a book, reactions from outside populations, is 
you....  Of course, guidance is tantamount, and I use reviews to persuade me about 
a particular title, but I don't let reading levels guide me.  

Please don't think I'm fussing at anyone, I'm not...but I'd sincerely like some 
feedback posted on the listserv about the above questions.  : )
Thanks,




Naomi Bates
Northwest High School Library

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