Reading Hub

Here you can find some book recommendations. Each section has books aimed at different age groups and reading abilities.  You will find the book titles, author and short description under many different genres so these is something for everyone!

Year 7

1. The Boy at the Back of the Class – Onjali Q. Raúf (Contemporary, Friendship, Social Issues – Developing Readers)

2. Skellig – David Almond (Magical Realism, Family, Mystery – Advanced Readers)

3. The Goldfish Boy – Lisa Thompson (Mystery, Mental Health – Developing Readers)

4. Diary of a Wimpy Kid – Jeff Kinney (Humour, School Life – Reluctant Readers)

5. Percy Jackson & The Lightning Thief – Rick Riordan (Fantasy, Mythology, Adventure – Developing Readers)

Year 8

1. Wonder – R.J. Palacio (Contemporary, Friendship, Disabilities – Developing Readers)

2. The Graveyard Book – Neil Gaiman (Fantasy, Mystery, Supernatural – Advanced Readers)

3. A Monster Calls – Patrick Ness (Drama, Grief, Magical Realism – Advanced Readers)

4. Tom Gates: The Brilliant World of Tom Gates – Liz Pichon (Humour, Diary-style – Reluctant Readers)

5. Kick – Mitch Johnson (Sport, Adventure, Inspirational – Developing Readers)

Year 9

1. Noughts & Crosses – Malorie Blackman (Dystopian, Social Issues, Romance – Advanced Readers)

2. The Hate U Give – Angie Thomas (Contemporary, Racism, Social Justice – Advanced Readers)

3. One of Us is Lying – Karen M. McManus (Thriller, Mystery, Crime – Advanced Readers)

4. The 1000 Year Old Boy – Ross Welford (Fantasy, Adventure – Developing Readers)

5. The Knife of Never Letting Go – Patrick Ness (Dystopian, Adventure – Developing Readers)

Year 10

1. To Kill a Mockingbird – Harper Lee (Classic, Racism, Justice – Advanced Readers)

2. Lord of the Flies – William Golding (Classic, Survival, Psychological – Advanced Readers)

3. The Book Thief – Markus Zusak (Historical, WWII, Powerful Narration – Advanced Readers)

4. Paper Towns – John Green (Coming-of-Age, Mystery, Romance – Developing Readers)

5. The Martian – Andy Weir (Science Fiction, Survival – Developing Readers/Advanced Readers)

Year 11

1. 1984 – George Orwell (Dystopian, Political, Classic – Advanced Readers)

2. Frankenstein – Mary Shelley (Gothic, Horror, Science – Advanced Readers)

3. Of Mice and Men – John Steinbeck (Classic, American Dream, Friendship – Developing Readers)

4. The Catcher in the Rye – J.D. Salinger (Classic, Coming-of-Age, Rebellion – Advanced Readers)

5. They Both Die at the End – Adam Silvera (LGBTQ+, Contemporary, Emotional – Developing Readers)

Free and Subscription-Based Platforms

1. OverDrive/Libby: Access a vast collection of free eBooks and audiobooks through your local library with OverDrive. The Libby app offers a user-friendly interface for borrowing and reading on various devices. overdrive.com

2. Hoopla: Another library-linked service providing free access to eBooks, audiobooks, comics, and more. Hoopla allows instant borrowing without waitlists. wired.com

3. Audible: A leading subscription-based platform with an extensive library of audiobooks across genres. Members receive monthly credits and access to exclusive content. greatworklife.com

4. Scribd: Offers unlimited access to a vast collection of eBooks, audiobooks, and more with a monthly subscription. It's a versatile platform for diverse reading materials. publishdrive.com

5. Epic!: Designed for children aged 12 and under, Epic! provides access to over 40,000 eBooks and educational videos. It's an excellent resource for young readers, available through subscription. publishdrive.com

Home Reading Tips: Guidance on Fostering a Reading Habit at Home

1. Create a Reading-Friendly Environment: Designate a quiet, comfortable space in your home specifically for reading. Ensure that books and other reading materials are easily accessible to encourage spontaneous reading. fldoe.org

2. Establish a Routine: Set aside a regular time each day dedicated to reading. Consistency helps children recognize reading as a natural and enjoyable part of their daily routine. thecollaborative.charlotte.edu

3. Be a Reading Role Model: Let your child see you reading regularly. Discuss what you're reading and express enthusiasm, demonstrating that reading is a valuable and enjoyable activity. nea.org

4. Engage in Read-Aloud Sessions: Reading aloud to your child, regardless of their age, can enhance comprehension and foster a love for stories. Use expressive voices and discuss the content to make sessions interactive. readingrockets.org

5. Incorporate Reading into Daily Activities: Encourage reading through everyday tasks, such as reading recipes while cooking, or reading signs and labels during outings. This practice helps children recognize the practical applications of reading. nwea.org

Support Strategies: Techniques for Assisting Struggling or Reluctant Readers

1. Offer Choices in Reading Materials: Allow children to select books that interest them, including comics, magazines, or non-fiction. Providing options can increase motivation and engagement. natlib.govt.nz

2. Use Scaffolding Techniques: Provide support by breaking reading tasks into manageable parts, offering guidance as needed, and gradually reducing assistance as the child's skills improve. edutopia.org

3. Incorporate Multi-Sensory Learning: Utilize tools like audiobooks or interactive e-books to engage multiple senses, which can aid in comprehension and retention for struggling readers. arxiv.org

4. Set Realistic Goals and Celebrate Progress: Establish achievable reading goals and acknowledge improvements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement can boost confidence and encourage continued effort. readingeggs.com

5. Collaborate with Educators: Maintain open communication with your child's teachers to share observations and develop consistent strategies that support reading development both at home and school. dyslexia.yale.edu

Recommended Reading Lists: Books to Support Curriculum Learning and Literacy Development

1. Reading Rockets' Book Finder: A comprehensive tool that allows you to search for books by age, grade level, and topic, aligning selections with your child's interests and educational needs. readingrockets.org

2. Colorín Colorado's Reading Tip Sheets: Provides curated book lists and reading tips in multiple languages, supporting diverse learners and aligning with various curriculum standards. colorincolorado.org

3. National Literacy Trust's Book Lists: Offers themed book lists that correspond with different subjects and key stages, aiding in the selection of materials that complement school curricula.

Reading Guides, Comprehension Worksheets, and Vocabulary Lists

1. Reading Rockets Classroom Strategies: A comprehensive collection of evidence-based reading strategies, including downloadable templates and examples to enhance literacy instruction. readingrockets.org

2. Read Naturally: Provides resources focused on improving reading comprehension, fluency, and vocabulary, with practical guides and materials suitable for various reading levels. readnaturally.com

3. IRIS Center: Offers modules and downloadable resources on reading comprehension strategies, tailored for educators and parents to support student learning. iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu

4. What Works Clearinghouse: Features practice guides with recommendations and downloadable materials for teaching foundational reading skills effectively. ies.ed.gov

Video Tutorials on Reading Strategies, Fluency, and Comprehension Techniques

1. "Comprehension: Strategies that Work" by Lynn Givens, M.Ed.: This video delves into effective comprehension strategies, offering insights into understanding and interpreting texts. youtube.com

2. "Teaching Reading Comprehension: A Guide for Parents": A webinar providing practical tips and techniques for parents to support their children's reading comprehension at home. youtube.com

3. Reading Rockets' "Reading 101: Self-Paced Learning Modules": These modules offer in-depth tutorials on various aspects of reading instruction, including strategies to enhance fluency and comprehension. readingrockets.org

4. "Speed Reading + Comprehension Techniques": A session focused on improving reading speed and comprehension, providing practical strategies applicable to learners of all levels. youtube.com

Promoting Diverse Characters, Settings, and Cultures

Inclusive books feature protagonists from various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, allowing readers to see the world through different perspectives. These stories not only reflect the diverse society we live in but also challenge stereotypes and broaden students' horizons.

Recommended Inclusive Books:

• "Danbi Leads the School Parade" by Anna Kim
  This charming picture book tells the story of Danbi, a young Korean girl starting her first day at an American school. Despite initial cultural differences, Danbi finds a way to connect with her classmates through creativity and music, showcasing the beauty of embracing new cultures.

• "Indigo" by Beverly Jenkins
  Set during the time of the Underground Railroad, this historical romance novel centers on Hester Wyatt, a free Black woman dedicated to helping enslaved people escape to freedom. The story delves into themes of love, resilience, and the fight against oppression. time.com

• "There Are Rivers in the Sky" by Elif Shafak
  This novel intertwines stories across different epochs and continents, exploring themes of history, identity, and cultural convergence. It celebrates the mingling of cultures and the shared human experience. ft.com

• For Year 7-8 Readers

  "The Turtle of Oman" – Naomi Shihab Nye (Contemporary, Immigration, Family)
  Aref, a young Omani boy, prepares to move to the U.S. and struggles with leaving his beloved home. This touching story explores themes of identity, change, and family bonds.

  "Other Words for Home" – Jasmine Warga (Verse Novel, Immigration, Identity)
  A lyrical story about Jude, a Syrian girl who moves to America and navigates a new language, culture, and friendships while keeping her connection to home.

  "The Night Diary" – Veera Hiranandani (Historical Fiction, Refugees, Coming-of-Age)
  Told through letters, this novel follows a 12-year-old girl during the Partition of India and Pakistan, a time of major upheaval that also affected the Middle East.

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  For Year 9-10 Readers

  "Escape from Aleppo" – N.H. Senzai (War, Survival, Refugees)
  A gripping novel about a Syrian girl forced to flee her war-torn home, navigating dangers and uncertainty in search of safety.

  "A Pocket Full of Stars" – Aisha Bushby (Magical Realism, Family, Culture)
  Safiya struggles with her British-Kuwaiti identity and a difficult relationship with her mother. A beautifully written, emotional story about self-discovery and family ties.

  "Beyond the Sky and the Earth" – Jamie Zeppa (Non-fiction, Travel, Culture)
  A memoir about a young woman’s experience teaching in Bhutan, offering reflections on cultural identity, belonging, and the beauty of unfamiliar places.

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  For Year 11 Readers

  "Persepolis" – Marjane Satrapi (Graphic Novel, Memoir, War, Identity)
  A powerful autobiographical graphic novel about growing up in Iran during and after the Islamic Revolution, exploring themes of freedom, oppression, and resilience.

  "The Land of Permanent Goodbyes" – Atia Abawi (War, Refugees, Survival)
  A heartbreaking yet hopeful novel following a Syrian teenager escaping the war and facing the realities of migration, loss, and new beginnings.

  "Mornings in Jenin" – Susan Abulhawa (Historical Fiction, Family, War)
  A moving novel about a Palestinian family’s displacement over generations, exploring history, identity, and resilience.

Author Spotlights: Highlighting Writers from Various Backgrounds

Shining a light on authors from diverse backgrounds enriches the literary landscape and provides students with a wide array of voices and stories. These authors bring unique perspectives that resonate with readers from all walks of life.

Featured Authors:

• Marlon James
  A Jamaican author known for his rich storytelling and complex characters, James's works often delve into the multifaceted nature of Jamaican life, moving beyond typical depictions to explore deeper societal issues. ft.com

• Bernardine Evaristo
  An award-winning British author, Evaristo's writing focuses on marginalized communities, particularly Black women. Her novel "Girl, Woman, Other" offers a vivid portrayal of the lives of Black women in the UK, emphasizing the importance of visibility and representation. ft.com

• Danzy Senna
  An American novelist, Senna explores themes of race, identity, and the complexities of biracial experiences in contemporary society. Her works provide insightful commentary on the nuances of mixed-race identities. newyorker.com

Integrating literature that aligns with the UK National Curriculum across various subjects can enhance students' learning experiences by providing context and depth.

Below is a selection of recommended books categorised by subject, suitable for students in Years 7 to 11:

English Literature

• "Animal Farm" by George Orwell
  A satirical novella that explores themes of power and corruption, aligning with studies on allegory and political literature.

• "Macbeth" by William Shakespeare
  A classic tragedy that delves into ambition, fate, and moral conflict, commonly studied in secondary English curricula.

Mathematics

• "The Number Devil: A Mathematical Adventure" by Hans Magnus Enzensberger
  An imaginative exploration of mathematical concepts, making abstract ideas accessible and engaging.

• "Alex's Adventures in Numberland" by Alex Bellos
  A journey through the world of mathematics, offering insights into numbers and their real-world applications.

Science

• "Horrible Science" series by Nick Arnold
  These books present scientific facts with humor and engaging narratives, covering topics from biology to chemistry. en.wikipedia.org

• "The Science Book" by DK
  A comprehensive guide that breaks down complex scientific concepts across various disciplines.

History

• "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank
  A firsthand account of life during World War II, providing personal insights into historical events.

• "A People's History of the United States" by Howard Zinn
  Offers a perspective on American history from the viewpoints of marginalized groups.

Geography

• "Prisoners of Geography" by Tim Marshall
  Explores how geographical features influence political decisions and global events.

• "Geography: A Very Short Introduction" by John A. Matthews and David T. Herbert
  Provides an overview of key geographical concepts and their relevance to current issues.

Art and Design

• "The Story of Art" by E.H. Gombrich
  A comprehensive introduction to art history, covering significant movements and artists.

• "Ways of Seeing" by John Berger
  Encourages critical thinking about visual culture and the interpretation of art.

Music

• "This Is Your Brain on Music" by Daniel J. Levitin
  Explores the relationship between music and the human brain, blending psychology and musical theory.

• "The Rest Is Noise" by Alex Ross
  Chronicles the history of 20th-century music, connecting it to broader cultural and political contexts.

Physical Education

• "Bounce: The Myth of Talent and the Power of Practice" by Matthew Syed
  Examines the science behind skill acquisition and the importance of practice in achieving success.

• "Born to Run" by Christopher McDougall
  Investigates human endurance and the secrets of a hidden tribe of super-athletes.

Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education (PSHE)

• "I Am Malala" by Malala Yousafzai
  The memoir of a young activist advocating for girls' education, highlighting themes of resilience and social justice.

• "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens" by Sean Covey
  Offers guidance on personal development and making positive choices during adolescence.