I recently replied to a Tweet from a fellow teacher, which asked for advice about one of her PGCE students. The problem? Whilst her student is an avid reader, she has begun to over-analyse everything and is no longer enjoying the experience. This is not un-common. I myself find it difficult to read a book without analysing the author's grammar or looking out for niggling vocabulary choices. For example, after reading the first few chapters of 'The Hunger Games', I couldn't go on. Why? Because the word 'but' had been over-used (in my ever-so slightly warped, snobbish opinion). I know, I know, it's a terrible admission. One of the bestselling books of the year and I cast it aside, refusing to spend any more of my precious reading time on it.
It is a sad fact that students of English Literature often find themselves in this predicament. I would be the first to admit that I am indeed a book snob. I'm not proud of it, but cannot deny it. So what's the solution? Well, if it's books for children that you are looking for, it's quite simple. Read the book (or an extract at least) to the child and watch for the reaction. A child will give you their honest untainted opinion about a book. They won't harp on about rhythm or the hidden messages found within; they will just tell you whether it's interesting for them. I was recently sent the proof of a new picture book. My initial response was quite negative. I felt that the illustrations would be a bit scary and the flow was stilted. However, I decided to 'test it out' on a group of unsuspecting children (cue evil laugh), thinking that they would be bound to agree with me. Was I proved right? In a word, no. They absolutely loved the story and became immediately attached to the main character. I was happy to be wrong (not a frequent admission from me), because I'd much rather stumble upon a book that children enjoy than find something which does nothing for the reader/audience.
The answer becomes trickier if the book is for you. I'd love to tell you that I have overcome my high and mighty ways, but I would be lying. I finished my degree 16 years ago and my MA 5 years ago, but I still over analyse terribly. When looking for a book for myself, I tend to go very much on recommendation from friends these days, although I do read a lot of 'children's' books for myself too! Who's to say what a 'children's book' is anyway? Can you draw a definitive line between books intended for children and those intended for children? That's a whole other debate...until next time.