The Best Summer Reading Books for Kids Ages 6–9 (That They'll Actually Finish)
Summer reading shouldn't feel like homework. Here are the bridge books that kids ages 6–9 actually want to read — with real science, real adventure, and chapters short enough to finish before dinner
8 Books Like Magic Tree House Your Kids Will Love Just as Much
Magic Tree House works because it moves fast, goes somewhere real, and never talks down to kids. These 8 books do the same thing — and for kids ages 6–9, at least one of them is going to be the next obsession.
The Gap Between Picture Books and Chapter Books Has a Name
There's a gap between picture books and full chapter books that most kids hit around age 6–8. I watched it happen for five summers at camp. Then I accidentally wrote a book that fills it — before I knew the category had a name.
Charlotte Is Real. Henry Is Real. And This Is Why I Wrote Them a Book.
My niece Charlotte was born, and I started writing. Not a book at first — just words. This is the story of what those words became, and why I couldn't stop.
I Spent Two Years Picking the Wrong Books for Kids. Then I Found their Lexile Scores.
I thought I was picking good books. I had no idea I'd been guessing the whole time — until I found out about the one number that changes everything.
10 Mount Everest Facts for Kids That Will Make Their Jaw Drop
Mount Everest is the highest place on Earth — but the facts behind it are even more incredible than the number. Here are 10 things about Everest that kids ages 6–9 can't stop talking about.
Bridge Books for Struggling Readers: The Parent's Complete Roadmap
If your child is struggling with reading, the problem is almost certainly not your child. They hit a gap nobody warned you about — the space between picture books and chapter books — without the right tool to get through it. That tool is called a bridge book, and this is everything you need to know.
My Child Hates Reading: What Actually Works
When your child says "I hate reading," something breaks in you. But it's not a dead end — it's a signal. Here's what's actually happening, and the one change that's helped more families than any tutor or reading app.
How to Pick a Read-Aloud Book That Keeps a Whole Class Listening
Not every great book makes a great read-aloud. The ones that actually hold a room — 25 kids, all different levels, all leaning in — have specific things in common. Here's exactly what to look for before you open to page one.
Reading Level Chart by Grade: Is My Child on Track?
Every teacher has a number for your child. But what does it actually mean — and should you be worried? Here's the honest, grade-by-grade breakdown of reading levels and Lexile scores, plus what to do if your child is ahead, behind, or somewhere in between.
What Is the Mariana Trench? Everything Kids (and Parents) Need to Know
The Mariana Trench is the deepest place on Earth — nearly 7 miles down. Here's what's actually down there, why it matters, and why kids ages 6-9 can't stop talking about it.
The Best Read Aloud Books for Elementary Classrooms (Grades 1–3)
I've stood in front of a lot of classrooms and opened a book. Here's what I've learned about what makes a great read aloud — and the books I'd put on any elementary teacher's list for Grades 1 through 3.
My Child Got a Lexile Score — Now What? Here's Exactly What to Do
The teacher sent home a number. Maybe it was 580. Maybe it was 420. Either way, you're staring at it thinking — what exactly am I supposed to do with this? Here's the answer, step by step.
To Every Teacher Who Said Yes: Happy Teacher Appreciation Week
Teacher Appreciation Week doesn't get nearly enough fanfare. As an ICU nurse who's spent the last few months visiting Boise classrooms for read-alouds, I've seen firsthand what teachers do — and I have a few things I need to say. This one's for every teacher who said yes.
What Is a Lexile Score? A Parent's Guide to Reading Levels
Confused by Lexile scores? Learn what a Lexile score is, what the numbers mean, and how to use them to find the perfect books for your child. Includes grade-level ranges and book recommendations.
Top Bridge Books for Kids — Best Picks for Growing Readers
Looking for the best bridge books for kids? Discover our top picks for ages 6-9 that make the jump from picture books to chapter books fun, easy, and exciting.
The Complete Guide to Bridge Books for Kids (Ages 6-9)
Your child just finished Frog and Toad. They loved it. They want more. You reach for Magic Tree House — and they stare at it like you handed them a dictionary. That gap is real. Bridge books are built for exactly this moment.
Best Books About the Ocean for Kids Ages 6-9
The ocean covers more than 70% of our planet — and kids are endlessly fascinated by what lives beneath the surface. Here are the best ocean books for kids ages 6-9 that will spark a lifelong love of the sea.
Mariana Trench Facts for Kids — The Deepest Place on Earth
The Mariana Trench is the deepest place on Earth — and it's full of incredible creatures, mind-bending science, and jaw-dropping facts. Here's everything kids need to know about the ocean's greatest mystery.
What Are Bridge Books? A Complete Guide for Parents and Teachers
Bridge books fill the gap between picture books and chapter books — and they're one of the most important tools for building confident early readers. Here's everything parents and teachers need to know.