Finding the right English book can feel overwhelming for both children and parents. The goal is simple: choose books that keep your child motivated, confident, and excited to read. A “just right” book sits in that sweet spot, not too easy and not too challenging. It supports learning while still making reading enjoyable. When choosing books, think about interest as much as level. Children naturally read more, and learn more, when the story captures their curiosity.
A helpful way to check level is the Five Finger Rule. Ask your child to read a page. They lift a finger for each word they cannot read or do not understand.
0 to 1 fingers: too easy
2 to 3 fingers: just right
4 to 5 fingers: too hard
This simple check helps children choose books, create higher motivation, reinforce variety and encourage reader autonomy.
Try this: On your next library visit, let your child choose three books. One for fun, one that fits “just right” level, and one picture book. This encourages variety, independence, and a love of reading.
More tips for reading at home:
https://learnenglishkids.britishcouncil.org/parents/top-tips/english-books-home
Interestingly, research supports this approach. Shared reading and level appropriate books improve vocabulary and overall language development. A 2019 meta analysis confirms that matched level shared reading leads to measurable language gains:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1747938X18305116
Reading Suggestions for Children and Families
Early Years and Picture Books
These support listening skills, vocabulary growth, and confidence.
- Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr.
- The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
- Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell
- We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen
Best used with read alouds and shared discussion.
Primary School Readers
These encourage independent reading and comprehension.
- Oxford Reading Tree series
- Biff, Chip and Kipper books
- Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne
- Flat Stanley by Jeff Brown
Choose books that match level and interest.
Upper Primary and Lower Secondary
These build fluency, confidence, and enjoyment.
- Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney
- Matilda by Roald Dahl
- The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner
Teen and Young Adult Readers
These develop critical thinking and advanced language use.
- Wonder by R. J. Palacio
- Holes by Louis Sachar
- The Giver by Lois Lowry
- Harry Potter series by J. K. Rowling