Lesson 1: Great Books
In this lesson, we are going to learn how to choose great books and where to find them. There are hundreds of books out there just waiting to be read.
Choosing a Great Book
Books can teach us many things and take us many places as we read!
For example, science books can teach us about the world we live in, including animals, space, archaeology, paleontology, botany, inventions and much more.
How can you be sure you're getting the book you're looking for? Well, here are a few pointers.
1. Look at the book's cover. Usually, this will give you a good idea of what the book is about. But a nice cover doesn't mean terrific content.
2. Read the synopsis, which is usually found on the back cover, or on the flaps of the book jacket. This will help you decipher (tell) what the book is all about.
3. Look at the "Table of Contents." This will tell you what is inside the book.
4. Read the first page or two. Many bookstores and libraries now have a reading room, or chairs throughout the store where you can browse through the book. This way you can tell if the book you have is one you'd like to purchase or borrow.
5. Keep your eye open for book reviews on a subject you are interested in. Many of these can be found online. Amazon.com prints a publisher's "blurb" or short review about each book they sell, and people are invited to submit their own book reviews as well. This is a good way to find out if a book is interesting, although sometimes opinions on a book varies.
6. Ask your teacher, principal or school librarian for their opinions on books you are choosing. This also applies to librarians at your local library.
No matter what the subject, there are hundreds of good books out there for you to read. You can buy books or check them out at your school or local library. Another place to find good books is at garage sales, yard sales and flea markets. Books in good condition are often sold very reasonably by people who have purchased them and read them several times. I've found hundreds of good books at yard sales and flea markets.
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