We spend a lot of time trying to get kids to read on their own. But for many kids, reading alone is lonely. It feels like work, and there’s no one to share the good parts with.
One of the easiest discoveries I’ve made in my classroom is to partner kids up. Each child still reads their own copy, at their own pace, but they have a classmate reading the same book alongside them. Here’s how I set it up.
How I set up reading partners
1. I start two kids on the same title.
This way they each have a reading partner. They can talk about the book or ask each other questions as they go.
2. I choose kids who have the same interests or need a boost
I keep an eye on friendships and reading interests and pair kids based on what I see.
3. I hype up the book to both kids.
This part is important. When I build up the book, kids feel like they are getting something special.
4. I give them a set time to talk about the book.
It doesn’t have to be long. Snack time works well for catching up on what is happening.
Bonus: it creates friendly pressure.
If a classmate asks you to read the next chapter, you’re more likely to do it than if a teacher asks.
Why it lets kids read a little higher
With a reading partner, you can push kids slightly above their usual reading level. Their partner acts as a thought partner. They help explain the confusing parts and talk about the characters and plot in a way only a classmate can.
A book that might feel like too much alone becomes doable when someone else is working through it too.
Three books I’ve used with reading partners
These three work well for strong readers in Grade 3 and are great choices for Grades 4–7, depending on reading level.
Wilderlore: The Accidental Apprentice by Amanda Foody
Grades 4-7
I’ve used Wilderlore with reading partners many times. The first few chapters are confusing, with a lot of new terms and characters. Having a partner helps kids sort out the new words and keep track of who is who, so they get past the tricky start and into the story.
The Academy by T.Z. Layton
Grades 3-7
The Academy works well on its own and grabs the attention of reluctant readers. This year I’m trying it earlier in the year to move kids from graphic novels into chapter books. With a partner, there’s accountability, and that helps kids get through it one chapter at a time.
The Lemonade War by Jacqueline Davies
Grades 3-7
The Lemonade War is a fun book, but the brother and sister relationship is complex. Partners can talk about it and imagine what it would be like to have a younger sibling in the same grade as you. The sibling lemonade stand rivalry hooks kids from the start.
You don’t need a whole program to make this work. Two kids, two copies of the same book, and a few minutes to talk. It works in the classroom and at home with siblings, cousins or friends.
For more middle grade book ideas and reading tips, follow me on Instagram at @kittoreads.
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