How are these "Leveled Readers" leveled?

A Reason For® Reading uses the leveling system developed by Fountas & Pinnell [link to buy book]. This is the most commonly used system in Guided Reading today. If you are familiar with a different leveling system (SRA, etc.) simple graphs are available to use as a cross-reference.

How do I know which Level a child needs to be using?

In general, Levels A, B, C, are designed for emergent readers (comparable to Kindergarten). Levels D, E, F, H are designed for transitional readers (roughly 1st grade). Levels I, J, K, L, M are designed for early fluent readers (roughly 2nd grade). Keep in mind, however, that every child is different! It's not uncommon to find fluent readers in Kindergartener or emergent readers in higher grades. For a detailed discussion of determining a specific child's reading
level, see the Teacher Guidebook, p. 5 - 7, or Fountas & Pinnell's book, "Guided Reading - Good First Teaching for All Children."

What is the difference in the Scripture series and the Values series?
Books in the Scripture series (purple cover) are based on Bible characters like Esther, Joseph, or Peter. The series also includes parables like the Ten Lepers. The back cover contains the specific Scripture reference.
The Values series (blue cover) is based on general Scripture themes like angels, prayer, and guidance. It also includes Christian Values themes like sharing, and stories about children with disabilities. The back cover references a related Scripture verse.

How many books are there and do I need them all?

Currently there are over 70 Leveled Readers in the series, with more on the way! The number of books you need depends on how you use the series. As a core for a classroom reading curriculum, you could use all these books and many more. For supplemental use, however, you can pick and choose the ones that best meet your needs. For a detailed description of how to use Leveled Readers, see the Teacher Guidebook,
p. 5 - 13.