Raising A Reader: My Guide To Choosing Clean, Age-Appropriate Books

My daughter just turned 13, and I’m thrilled that she’s developed a love for reading. She’s moved from illustrated books to actual novels, and I’m all for it—except when it comes to some of the books trending on social media. With #BookTok influencing teen reading habits, I have to be extra careful about what she picks up. Not all books are created equal, and keeping her reading material clean and age-appropriate is important to me.

Why Age-Appropriate Books Matter

Books shape how our kids view the world, and the last thing I want is for my daughter to be exposed to things that aren’t suited for her age. That’s why I’m intentional about choosing books that are fun, thoughtful, and help her grow into a kind, informed person. It’s a balancing act of letting her explore while protecting her innocence.

How I Choose the Right Books

Here’s how I go about selecting books for my daughter:

1. Check Reviews: I always look for trusted reviews—especially from other parents. Websites like Common Sense Media give great insights.
2. Skim the Book: If I can, I’ll read through the book myself to make sure it’s suitable.
3. Ask My Circle: I’m lucky to have a network of family and friends who are just as cautious about what their kids read. If a book’s popular but questionable, I’ll ask around for feedback.
4. Stay Informed About Trends: BookTok is huge, and I can’t ignore it. While many books are great, some may not be. So, I keep an eye out on what’s trending and vet it first.

Talking to Your Teen About What They Read

I love that my daughter and I can have open conversations about the books she’s reading. We talk about themes, characters, and sometimes, I explain why certain books might not be suitable. It’s all about having an honest, respectful dialogue and helping her make good choices on her own.

Where I Find Book Recommendations

When I’m unsure about a book, I turn to my mom groups on Facebook, trusted websites, and recommendations from friends. It helps me keep up with the latest trends while also making sure the books are safe for her.

Encouraging a Love for Reading Without the Pressure

At the end of the day, I want to nurture my daughter’s love for reading without forcing it. I choose books that are clean, engaging, and age-appropriate. After all, we only have so much time before they’re off on their own. My hope is that the love of reading sticks and that she’ll continue to make thoughtful choices as she grows.

We’re All Learning as We Go

Do you also have a teen reader at home? I’d love to hear how you’re navigating this stage — especially if you’ve got clean book recs or parenting wins to share. I’m also working on a list of titles that are both mom-approved and teen-approved, so keep an eye out for that. You can sign up for my newsletter if you want it sent straight to your inbox.

---