I use the publisher's recommendation as well as reviewers. I try to read as many
books as I can. I read 35 books this summer. I still have at least 40 to go.
My community does not seem to care if there is violence in the book, but any
mention of sex drives them nuts!
I have resorted to labeling the edgier books with young adult labels. I have a
paragraph in our student handbook that we carry books of all maturity levels and it
is the responsibility of the parents to talk to their kids about what books they
prefer or object them reading. It has worked very well.
Kathy
Kathy Spielman
Middle School Library/Media Technician
Yorba Linda Middle School
4777 Casa Loma Ave.
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
(714)528-7090 ext.7062
kspielman@pylusd.org
Read to succeed!
I am the best I can be BECAUSE I CAN READ
-----Original Message-----
From: School Library Media & Network Communications
[mailto:LM_NET@LISTSERV.SYR.EDU]On Behalf Of Naomi Bates
Sent: Wednesday, September 03, 2008 11:22 AM
To: LM_NET@LISTSERV.SYR.EDU
Subject: [LM_NET] Reading level for Sweethearts
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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