“Did you like it?” “Yes.” End of conversation.
“What happened in the story?” A long, flat summary, delivered like homework.
The questions we ask after a book decide whether reading feels like a pleasure or a test. These ten have no right answers. That's what makes them work.
The questions
1. Which part would you change?
Children love being the author. This one tells you what they cared about.
2. Who would you want as a friend from this story?
And who would you avoid? Opinions about characters are the start of real reading.
3. Was there a moment you were worried?
It names the feeling, not the plot.
4. What do you think happens after the last page?
There's no answer in the book, so they have to invent one.
5. Did anyone in the story do something you wouldn't do?
A gentle way into right and wrong without a moral attached.
6. What was the funniest bit?
Easy, happy, and often surprising.
7. If this story had a smell, what would it be?
Strange questions get honest answers.
8. Who should read this book next?
Recommending makes them an expert.
9. Did it remind you of anything that happened to you?
Sometimes the answer will surprise you. Listen.
10. What question would you ask the author?
Their curiosity, not yours.
How to ask
One question, not ten. Ask it on a walk, in the car, in the bath. Not across the table like an interview. And answer it yourself too. A conversation is two people wondering, not one person checking.
The best question after a story is one you don't know the answer to.
How to Start a Book Club With Kids Who Don't Think They Like Reading
Pick one question tonight and leave the rest. Which one got the best answer? Tell me in the comments.
I read, I choose, and I write about the books that stay with me. I also write The Keeper Chronicles.
Raising readers, one week at a time.
Once a week: a short personal note, one article about reading or family life, one practical idea to try, and a question you can answer just by replying. One email a week, never a sales pitch.
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