I just bought my granddaughter a book that I read as a youngster, "Island of the Blue Dolphins."  She is six years old and just starting to read, and I plan to save it for her.  At what age do you think she would enjoy this book? I can't remember how old I was.  Thanks. Bonnie

I read that book for the first time in 5th grade. AWESOME choice!

I would wait until about 4th or 5th. but whenever she starts reading other stuff like that would be a good sign to give it to her

Again, AWESOME choice!

Most of the websites I encountered that dealt with Island of the Blue Dolphins recommended it for children in grades 3 - 5. I loved that book, too, but I still vividly recall the deaths of both Karana's brother, Ramo, and Rontu, the wild dog she adopts. A child would need to have a certain amount of maturity in order to deal with these emotional issues. Plus, if I remember correctly, the vocabulary is a bit advanced.

I read this book when I was 8. I was hooked to Scott Odell books when I was 8 and 9. They deal with some tragedies, but no more than most other adventure books. It is a challenging book to read so someone who is only begining to read would not be able to.

The Magic Tree House books are good for kids that have aquired atleast a 2nd great reading level. They are adventure historical fiction as well, but easier to read. Both of my daughters loved that series.

Good book but honestly, I think 6 years old is a little to young for this book. I would wait to let her read it until she was 11 or 12.

I read it in 4th grade (9 years old). It was a book we read as a class.

Thanks everyone. Yes, I knew six years old was too young, but for some reason that book had made an impression me and I have never forgotten reading it and remembering I loved it.  However, I should read it again as I have forgotten the details of the book.  I guess I wanted to buy it while I was thinking about it.  Bonnie

And it is different if you read it together rather than alone.  Topics like death need to be read or seen with an adult before a certain age.  Even Bambi and the Wizard of Oz shouldn't be seen alone.  That way it isn't as scary, and the child gets a chance to talk about their fears. 

Our teacher read this to us in 5th grade.

I read it by myself in 3rd grade, and my 4th grade teacher did a unit on it.  I loved it, and have reread it a couple of times since then.  You might even want to read it to her in a year or two- she'd probably love it!