Washington Post: “When children are very young, they will — even if they’re wiggling — listen when a book is read to them. As they get older, this becomes more difficult, given the distraction of screens and other activities. What can parents and caregivers do? Keep trying. Also, give kids the chance to pick the books themselves. Fortunately, this fall’s crop of books for kids and teens offers some stellar possibilities. Looking for a World War II spy novel? See “The Bletchley Riddle.” For something funny, try “Jax Freeman and the Phantom Shriek.” Teens who relish horror or vampires should check out “Ruin Road” and “Immortal Dark,” while adolescent romance fans will swoon to “Twenty Four Seconds From Now.” And young picture-book lovers can choose silly, “The Man Who Didn’t Like Animals,” or thoughtful, “When You Find the Right Rock.”  So, let the choosing — and the reading — begin.”

See also Washington Post – What book should my child read next? A librarian offers suggestions. Hi, I’m Sylvie Shaffer, a children’s literature specialist living in Takoma Park, Md. Over the 15 years I spent working as a school librarian in the District, I noticed a lot of thematic repetition in questions from students, families and teachers. So, when The Washington Post recently solicited queries from readers, I prioritized answering those I thought would help the greatest number of families, teachers and young readers. I hope my advice is useful…”