My recommendation is fourth grade and up, but I do think every situation is
unique, and of course I don’t tell anyone they can’t check it out. I have kids
all ages reading the books (or having their parents reading it to them).
Parents sometimes come in to check it out for a first or second grader! I
always tell them about a very strong reader in eighth grade who for some reason
had always resisted the series. He suddenly discovered it in eighth grade and
was absolutely transported. My advice is to save it for later and instead focus
on the amazing array of picture books or shorter chapter books. I sometimes
wonder if there is almost an issue of trying to prove something by having their
child read such a big book before everyone else. Jenny
On Mar 17, 2017, at 8:41 AM, Kari Riedel <kari@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
On Bookopolis.com <http://bookopolis.com/>, we often see 2nd and 3rd graders
(and occasionally K-1st graders) reading Harry Potter. They often re-read it
a 5th-8th graders when they can get more out of it. It's very depending on
the kid and the family as to when they are ready for it. The first two books
are more appropriate (i.e. less violent and less relationship drama) than the
later books. But, I think it's very common for elementary kids to love this
series. It's a great one to hook them early as "readers."
Best,
Kari
On Thu, Mar 16, 2017 at 8:46 PM, Debra Cardone <cardone@xxxxxxxxxx
<mailto:cardone@xxxxxxxxxx>> wrote:
Dear Colleagues,
Rowlings released Harry Potter 15 years ago, and I can still remember an
enthusiastic 5th grader running into my library screaming, "I just read a
fantastic book!"
This memorable event occurred before the movies, video games, museums,
costumes, etc.
We are having an auction item for a fundraiser that includes tickets to see
the Harry Potter play in London.
What do you all feel is the appropriate age to read the book and see the
play. Today I had 15 fourth grade students say they have read Harry Potter.
I know the book has a tendency to get scarier and intense as you read more
books in the series.
Do you feel middle school students still enjoy the book? or Is the book more
suited for 3rd and up now?
Please let me know your thoughts.
Thanks,
Debra Cardone, Librarian
Hamlin School
San Francisco, Ca
