Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers

Selection Criteria

These criteria are meant as suggestions for evaluating a book. Not all criteria may fit all books.

1.  Physical Appearance

• Cover - catchy, action-oriented, attractive, appealing, good "blurb"
• Print style - sufficiently large for enjoyable reading
• Format - appropriate and appealing balance of test and white space
• Artwork/illustrations - enticing, realistic, demonstrated diversity

2.  Style

• Clear writing that easily communicates without long convoluted sentences of sophisticated vocabulary
• Acceptable literary quality and effectiveness of presentation
• Simple vocabulary but not noticeably controlled

3.  Fiction

• High interest "hook" in first 10 pages
• Well-defined characters
• Sufficient plot to sustain interest
• Plot lines developed through dialog and action
•  Familiar themes with emotional appeal for teenagers
• Believable treatment
• Single point of view
• Touches of humor when appropriate
• Chronological order

4.  Informational Books

• Technical language acceptable if defined in context
•  Accuracy
• Objectivity