Book Club for Kids
By Robert Yaniz Jr.,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Thoughtful book club discussion with kids and authors.
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Based on 1 parent review
What’s It About?
BOOK CLUB FOR KIDS features a different trio of kids every episode as they discuss and analyze a different book. Titles range in reading level and age appropriateness from elementary school to middle and high school, and episode descriptions name the featured book so you can pick and choose which are best for your kids. Host Kitty Felde propels the conversation along with questions about the story and characters. A celebrity guest also joins the show at one point to read a passage from the novel in question, and the author even appears to address a specific question about their book. Usually, coverage of a single book spans two episodes: a 20-minute main discussion and a bonus episode -- roughly five minutes long -- wherein the author offers a bit more insight into the book.
Is It Any Good?
On the surface, Book Club for Kids might seem to be simply a way to inspire kids to read more. But the show goes beyond this mission to serve an even greater purpose. In addition to introducing these kids to more books, host Kitty Felde gently guides them through the development of their own media literacy skills. She truly facilitates a book club atmosphere, allowing kids to voice their opinions and how they relate to the stories and characters. Many of these book selections focus on main characters roughly the same age as the readers, so they're able to connect to the story and characters more directly.
Listeners are sure to feel like they're part of this inclusive book club with their peers, and the podcast offers an opportunity for kids and trusted adults to pause and answer questions or add to the discussion. This is the perfect podcast for literature lovers or even to encourage apprehensive readers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Book Club for Kids imitates the experience of traditional book clubs that adults participate in. As a family, can you choose a book everyone wants to read and have a monthly book club to discuss?
This podcast promotes literary curiosity. Why is this an important character strength to have while reading? Practice jotting down thoughts or questions you may have after you read.
Not all children are passionate about reading from an early age. But Book Club for Kids makes a focused effort "to turn kids into lifelong book lovers." How has the show changed your views on reading?
How can having discussions about what you're reading or what you and your friends are watching or playing help with communication skills?
Podcast Details
- Release date: July 1, 2015
- Genre: Educational
- Average Run Time: 20 minutes
- Website: https://www.bookclubforkids.org/
- Host: Kitty Felde
- Production Company and Network: Independent
- Pricing structure: Free
- Topics: Book Characters
- Character Strengths: Communication , Curiosity
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: July 13, 2023
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
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