What we found, however, was that readers often skipped to the numbers instead of reading the review. They would then make a decision based on the number alone. But the reality is that even a 4+ star book might not be a good fit for one family (perhaps it has magic in it and a family doesn't believe that's appropriate; perhaps it has depictions of Jesus and that violates another family's standards).

Conversely, many books might merit a 3- rating in literary quality and be exactly what a young reader  need. Many formulaic, series fiction titles are not as strong individually as a stand alone novel that has been carefully crafted, but readers who are building reading fluency might need exactly those series titles to practice with.

Discussion starters are books that are messy or which raise interesting issues and questions. Some of these may rate lower on a worldview scale, but be worth reading precisely because they prompt good discussion over different beliefs.

Part of equipping parents and educators to choose books confidently is encouraging them read the book review thoughtfully and then make a decision, not depend on ratings.