In my opinion, the key to becoming and staying excited about reading is all about choice. I have recently begun using literature circles in my classroom. Students choose from many different books and work collaboratively with a small group, reading and analyzing their book. This has been wonderful. I have watched kids who I would categorize as reluctant readers become engrossed in their books, finish early and read more. But it’s not easy finding books that are sure to draw in every type of reader. I have relied on the testimonies of colleagues and have done quite a bit of young adult reading myself in order to find books that I think will interest my students. The following are some web sites that review literature. These, I think, are good starting places for teachers, parents, and students to find books (and don’t forget about those non-fiction books too) that can be found in local libraries and book stores. As with any web surfing experience, I recommend that parents monitor their children’s use.

For Young Readers:

www.bookhive.com

www.dawcl.com

www.childrenslit.com

For Young Adult Readers:

www.alan/ya.org

www.richiespicks.com

www.readingrants.org