Q.: What do I do about the books that are too difficult or too simple for the students in my classroom or Golden Sower Award program?

A:  The Golden Sower Award committee has frequently discussed the ‘grade’ or ‘reading’ levels of the books and how to address those concerns expressed by teachers and librarians.  One important thing to remember is that a child need read only four from any category to be eligible to vote. 

The books in every section represent a range of reading levels, interests and topics in order to have broad reader appeal.  Books may be read ‘to’ or ‘with’ children in order to extend their experiences and ability to understand and enjoy the literature.  The Primary books are mostly picture books, while the Intermediate and Young Adult are generally more demanding reading material.  Although the books in any section tend to be more appropriate for students at those age or grade levels, each child has unique needs and abilities.

It is also good to keep in mind that even picture books may have messages and themes appropriate for adults.  Most quality literature may be enjoyed on a number of levels of appreciation and understanding.

Our purpose with the Golden Sower Award is to promote quality literature to “enrich lives and sow seeds for a finer future life” to a wide spectrum of readers rather than to provide grade appropriate reading material to meet the needs of the school curriculum.  It is true however, that often the books chosen for the award achieve both of those objectives.   

The most important criteria is that each child find books to read, enjoy and appreciate and that each child feel welcome to participate in the Golden Sower Award program and to cultivate an interest in lifelong learning and reading.