Do you think the the Stephen King book "The Body" (on which the 1980s film "Stand By Me" is based)...

Question

... is suitable for a very intelligent and sensitive eight-year-old boy?
I have not read the book but have seen the film and given the themes I wish to bolster the boy's confidence through his reading (which no-one could object to given so much emphasis these days on the "literacy hour" in schools).
Failing that could anyone suggest any other books that would be suitable for him given that it seems that he will not be allowed to express *himself* by joining a drama group (in which he would excel).

I don't think that fantasy like "Harry Potter" would suit him - he needs something that he can relate to in real life and how he *can* excel at what he's good at in the end despite any obstacles.

I want him to have something that he can read quietly here - he'll no doubt read Harry Potter as it seems compulsory almost these days and his older brother has them.
Swallows and Amazons *might* do but I feel that Kes ("A Kestrel for a Knave") is a little old for him yet.
I was just going by the film for "The Body".
I shall find something - with further help on here I hope!

Answer 1

Hi Joan
Harry Potter is ALL about overcoming obstacles and would be perfect for him. Stephen King is not at all suitable for a *sensitive* 8 year old. Is it even worth me pointing out that it might be best to ask his *parents* what they think? Thought not.
If you really object to Harry Potter then how about a classic like Swallows and Amazons or Kes?

Answer 2

Ignore the people saying stephen king books are too old for your grandson.Since about 6yrs old I've read adult material such as Stephen King & I'm a decent, loving Mum & housewife, They didn't turn me into a serial killer or give me nightmares. In fact books like this challenged my mind more than a kids book could.I have a vivid imagination, have done since primary school & I wrote a lot of stories myself which got me good marks. My teachers were always shocked by the material I produced & I think impressed them.
I admit I've stopped writing but I still get ideas & maybe one day when I get more time i'll have a go. Its lovely that you want to encourage him.

Answer 3

Hiya! Been a little while-hope you have been keeping well.

I was pretty ahead of myself when I was a kid and was into books that were intended for adults by the time I was that sort of age.

I was also into acting (probably because I was always very extrovert. I always enjoyed dress-up as a kid and was also into making a lot of racket. My poor mum!!)

I'd think that maybe Stephen King books may be a bit much for him as some of them do contain quite coarse language in them.
My mum gave me "Goosebumps" books when I was 8 or so and I loved them. I also had the entire Roald Dahl collection. (I still do-I can't bear to part with them!!)
Also, the Terry Pratchett books are good, particularly if he's ahead of himself. They're sort-of sience-fiction and fantasy novels. The Hogfather on Sky over christmas was based on the book by Pratchett.

Drama groups are GREAT for children! I really loved going to mine, and was also into tap dancing and gymnastics group as a kid. (I had so much energy back then it's hard to imagine trying it now!!)

Answer 4

I wouldn't let an 8 year old read Stephen King. Its more adult orientated and not really suitable for children.

Try something a bit more suited to his age group like Artemis Fowl. Or if he wants a less fantasy type book what about something like Buddys Song? Thats about a young lad who finds himself thrown on hard times but comes through it.

Answer 5

Try the Phillip Pullman series of books, the film The Golden Compass is based on them.
There is a set of three which although I enjoyed reading are designed for children. (early teens really, but I think your grandson would enjoy them)

It isn't really based on real life but it's a series of books that you can lose yourself in!

http://www.philip-pullman.com/pages/content/index.asp?PageID=36

Answer 6

I am a huge Stephen King fan and I don't think any of his books are appropriate for an 8 year old. My youngest son is 10 and loves to read. I would suggest trying the Magic Treehouse series. The Boxcar Children is also a great series. Both of these series are full of educational facts and family oriented themes,but are exciting enough that they hold the child's attention. I personally loved the Boxcar Children. There are over 50 books to the series already and more are always coming out. We have a 30 minute a night rule in our house. If my son is willing to read to me for 30 minutes,he is allowed 30 minutes past his bedtime. As a result,he has always loved being read to,and then reading to me as he got older. Flat Stanley is also a fun series you might want to check out. At any rate,I would pass on Stephen King and go for the Boxcar Children.

Answer 7

To be quiet honest joan I agree with Adrian...Steven King books are meant and written for adults. From what I know of your Grandson - although he is intelligent I don't think this is the type of book he should be reading.

I can't really give you any suggestions about what he should be reading as I'm not really into children's books anymore apart from The Harry Potter ones.

Shame he can't join the Drama group as that's what I suggested last night in your question about getting him into Carmen.

Answer 8

It's a good book but I don't personally think it's suitable for a sensitive eight year old. How about the Harry Potter books?

Answer 9

I would say that Stephen King's writing is meant for adults. Perhaps try The Dark Tower first, there's nothing particularly nasty in that. Having said that, I've seen Stand By Me, and it is a little tamer than, say, The Green Mile. Haven't read the books for either of those though.

Answer 10

Has he read the Hardy Boys series of books? They are great mystery books for kids of that age. You might be able to find them on Amazon or Barnes & Noble's websites.