It's hard to find books that are both academically appropriate and emotionally appropriate. We own Because of Winn Dixie, and it went on the "probably too old" stack when DD was 6. I think she was capable of reading it, but even at 8, I don't think she'd enjoy reading it.
Same thing here with DS 5, he is capable of reading way older than he is emotionally ready for. But we have had to accept some issues simply because he is so bored with material on his emotional level. Like, I have noticed that almost every interesting fantasy book has orphaned kids and its the losing of parents which produces the interesting mystery or opportunity - I was worried this would make DS upset and he would relate it to losing his parents. From his point of view -its the scary factor - but its hard to know what he is becoming emotionally comfortable with as the growth isn't as evident as other development!
DeHe
