How to choose a children’s book

Walk into any bookshop or library and the children’s section can feel overwhelming. Thousands of titles, all claiming to be perfect. The good news is that a few simple questions will narrow things down fast.

Start with your child, not the age on the cover

Age ranges printed on books are a rough guide. They are set by publishers, not by your child. What matters more:

• Interests. Dinosaurs, football, ballet, space and animals. A topic your child already loves will carry them through trickier text.
• Reading level. Is your child reading independently, or are you reading to them? Choose accordingly.
• Mood and temperament. A sensitive child may need gentler stories, while a daring child may relish an adventure.

A five-step checklist

1. Look at the cover and the first page. Does it grab your child?
2. Read a page or two. Does the language flow and sound good aloud?
3. Flick through the pictures. Are they clear, engaging and suited to the age?
4. Check the length. Short books build confidence, longer ones build stamina.
5. Ask your child. Even a young child can say yes or no.

The five-finger test for independent readers

Ask your child to read a page from the middle of the book. Hold up a finger for each word they cannot read or do not know. If you reach five fingers on a single page, the book may be too hard for independent reading right now. That does not mean it is a bad book; save it for reading together.

Picture books, chapter books, graphic novels and non-fiction

Do not worry about formats. All of these count as reading:

• Picture books are not just for little ones. Many have sophisticated themes and beautiful art.
• Chapter books build stamina and are great for bedtime reading.
• Graphic novels teach visual storytelling and build fluency.
• Non-fiction feeds curiosity and suits children who prefer facts.
• Poetry and joke books are short, fun and good for reluctant readers.

Where to find recommendations

• Librarians are experts and love being asked.
• Teachers know what your child is working on at school.
• Award lists can point you to well-reviewed books. Children’s Books Ireland publishes news about Irish titles and awards on its website.
• Other families often have the best word-of-mouth tips.
• Our guides by age and topic are a good place to start.

Watch out for…

• Books that are too old. Check the themes before handing over a book aimed at older readers.
• Overly “educational” books. Children can tell when they are being taught, and they switch off. A story that is simply fun does more good than a book with a heavy moral.
• Pressure to move up. Let your child enjoy books that feel comfortable. There is no medal for a hard book.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a book is the right level for my child?

Try the five-finger test above, and watch how your child responds. If they read with ease and enjoyment, the level is about right. If they struggle or lose interest, try something easier and read the harder book together.

Should I buy books my child can “grow into”?

A few, yes. But make sure there are also books your child can read now, so they feel successful.

Is it okay to judge a book by its cover?

For children, the cover matters. It is often what first catches their eye, so there is no harm in letting your child’s eye guide the first choice, as long as you check the content too.

How many books should I buy at once?

A small number is fine. Borrow from the library for variety and buy the ones your child asks for again and again.