Finding the "Just-Right" Book: How to Match Kids with Books They'll Love Artwork

Engaging Reluctant Readers

Tired of the nightly reading battles? Struggling to get your child to open a book because they refuse to read at all costs? Maybe they can read but just don’t want to, or perhaps they struggle with the basics, making reading feel frustrating and exhausting. Or maybe books just can’t compete with screens, sports, or other distractions. No matter the reason, you’re not alone—and more importantly, you’re not failing as a parent.

Welcome to Engaging Reluctant Readers—the podcast for book-loving moms raising reluctant readers. Hosted by Ellen Westbrook, a Literacy Coach (and recovering reluctant reader herself!), this show is here to help you transform your child’s reading journey from dread to must-be read and rediscover family reading fun along the way.

As a mom of two high-energy boys with a degree in Elementary Education, Ellen gets it—the frustration, the worry, and the endless search for ways to make books click for your child. She’s here to bridge the gap between your love of reading and your kiddo’s resistance, helping you understand why they struggle and, more importantly, what actually works.

You won’t find complicated reading strategies or one-size-fits-all advice here. Instead, Ellen shares real-life strategies that fit into your busy days and make reading feel fun instead of forced. From creative ways to build stamina, confidence, and reading skills to strategies that make books more engaging and spark a genuine love of reading, every episode is designed to help you make real progress—without the fights, tears, or frustration.

Each episode is under 30 minutes, packed with actionable tips, and released every Thursday—so you can get quick wins without adding more to your already-full plate.

Because reading should feel fun, not like a chore—and every step forward, no matter how small, is worth celebrating.

Hit follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode, and let’s rediscover family reading fun—together!

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Engaging Reluctant Readers

Finding the "Just-Right" Book: How to Match Kids with Books They'll Love

April 10, 2025 • Ellen Westbrook • Season 1 • Episode 3

Struggling to find a book your child actually wants to read? You're definitely not alone! Many parents face resistance when suggesting books—and picking the wrong one can turn reading into a chore. But the right book? It can spark curiosity, build confidence, and turn reading into something your child actually looks forward to.

In this episode of the Engaging Reluctant Readers podcast, hos Ellen Westbrook shares how to take the stress out of book selection and empower you child to become a more confident, independent reader. You'll learn:

☑️ Why letting kids choose their own books makes a huge difference

☑️ How to uncover your child's unique interests

☑️ A simple tool called the Five-Finger Rule to find books at the right reading level

☑️ Smart ways to gently introduce new genres

☑️ How to navigate tricky content that may not be age-appropriate

☑️ Tips for successful library visits, bookstore outings, and curating a home library

By the end of this episode you'll have a solid roadmap for helping you child find books that truly click—with less pushback and more fun.

🔗Prefer to Read? 📖 Check out the full blog post here for extra tips and links!

📺 Prefer to Watch? Catch the video version here: https://youtu.be/11aFzGmBg4U

⌛Key Episode Highlights:

[00:00:33] Why the "just-right" book matters

[00:02:09] Connecting books to your child's interests

[00:02:41] Using and idea web to brainstorm themes

[00:03:38] Expanding book options beyond traditional formats

[00:04:00] How to use the Five-Finger Rule

[00:04:49] The magic of binge-worthy book series

[00:05:31] Gently introducing new genres

[00:06:25] Letting kids lead the book selection process

[00:07:36] Navigating content and level challenges

[00:09:12] Making the most of library and bookstore visits

[00:10:35] Sneak peek at next week's episode: How rotating your home library can keep kids curious and excited about reading

✨FREEBIE ALERT!

Want 164 fun, flexible, mix-and-match reading ideas?

👉 Grab the Reading Bucket List Bundle: bit.ly/RBLBundle

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