How to Choose a “ Just Right” Book

 The 5 Finger Test
1. First choose the book you think you would like to read.
2. Find a page of text somewhere in the middle of the book. Find a page with lots of words and few or no pictures.
3. Begin to read the page. Each time you come to a word you don't know, hold one finger up.
4. If you have all 5 fingers up before you get to the end of the page, wave the book "good-by." It is probably too difficult for you right now. Try it again later in the year.
5. If you have no fingers up when you finish the page, then the book may be an easy read for you. Use the "Goldilocks' method" as you read to see if the book is too easy or "just right."
6. If you have less than 5 fingers but more than 2 fingers up when you finish reading the page, the book may be just what you need to grow as a reader.
 Use the "Goldilocks' method" as you read to see if the book is a "just right" book. Enjoy!
 
 The Goldilocks' Method"
TOO EASY:
1. Have you read this book many times before?
2. Do you understand the story very well without much effort?
3. Do you know and understand almost every word?
4. Can you read it smoothly and fluently without much practice or effort?
 
JUST RIGHT:
1. Is this book new to you?
2. Do you understand most of the book?
3. Are there a few words per page that you don't recognize or know the meaning to instantly? Did you use the 5 finger test?
4. Can someone help you with the book if you hit a tough spot?
 
TOO HARD:
1. Are there more than a few words on a page that you don't recognize or know the meaning?
2. Are you confused about what is happening in most of the book?
3. When you read are you struggling and does it sound choppy?
4. Is everyone busy and unable to help you if you hit a tough spot?