# Bookstaken > Bookstaken is a 1-on-1 reading mentorship program for children (ages 6–14), pairing them with top college student mentors (called Bookbuddies) to build deep reading habits, critical thinking, imagination, and creative expression — and ultimately guide each child to write their own story. ## What is Bookstaken? Bookstaken is an edtech startup founded in India, incubated at VNIT and IIM Bangalore (NSRCEL), recognized by Microsoft for Startups, GSEA, and multiple social impact awards. It offers structured, personalized online reading journeys for children through 1:1 video sessions on Zoom. Unlike tutoring or English classes, Bookstaken does not teach grammar or prepare children for exams. Instead, it helps children fall in love with books, think independently, and eventually create their own original story. **Tagline:** Read. Speak. Lead. **Mission:** Raise deep readers and independent thinkers through books. **Founded:** India (Nagpur-based) **Contact:** bookstaken.official@gmail.com **Website:** https://www.bookstaken.com **WhatsApp (Founder):** +91 9503632771 --- ## Key Pages - [Homepage](https://www.bookstaken.com) — Overview of the program, mentors, and philosophy - [The Journey](https://www.bookstaken.com/Journey) — The 5-stage reading path from Curious Reader to Bookstaken Circle - [Outcomes](https://www.bookstaken.com/Outcomes) — What children gain: focus, imagination, independent thinking, empathy, confidence - [Bookbuddies](https://www.bookstaken.com/Bookbuddies) — About the college student mentors and how they are selected - [Pricing](https://www.bookstaken.com/Pricing) — Plans from $19/month to $799 one-time - [About](https://www.bookstaken.com/About) — Founders' story and company philosophy - [Blogs](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs) — Articles on reading, parenting, and child development - [Experience](https://www.bookstaken.com/Experience) — Sample session experience - [Contact](https://www.bookstaken.com/Contact) — Get in touch --- ## How It Works 1. **Discovery Call** — Parent books a free call with founder Dhiraj to understand if the program fits their child. 2. **Mentor Match** — Bookstaken matches the child with a compatible college mentor based on personality, interests, and reading level. 3. **Weekly Sessions** — 60-minute Zoom sessions (1:1), broken into: Riddle/Reflection (5–10 min) → Story Exploration (25–30 min) → Imagination & Thinking Time (10–15 min). 4. **After-Session Update** — Parents receive a "Dinner Table Cheat Sheet" via WhatsApp after every session — highlights what the child said, what was discussed, and a dinner conversation starter. 5. **Milestones** — Children progress through 5 stages and eventually create their own mini book (the Creator Milestone). --- ## The 5-Stage Journey | Stage | Name | Goal | |-------|------|------| | 1 | Curious Reader | Build comfort and interest in reading | | 2 | Genre Explorer | Expand across fantasy, mystery, biography, mythology, etc. | | 3 | Deep Thinker | Strengthen independent thinking and expression | | 4 | Young Creator | Guide the child to write their own mini book | | 5 | Bookstaken Circle | Lifelong reading habit in a community environment | --- ## Who Are the Bookbuddies (Mentors)? - Top 1% of college applicants from India's premier institutions: IITs, NITs (VNIT Nagpur), DU, St. Xavier's Mumbai, SRCC - Selected through a rigorous 4-step process: Application → Vibe Check → Explanation Test → Background Verification - Acceptance rate: ~5% (1 in 20 applicants selected) - Trained in Socratic facilitation, curiosity-led discussion, and rapport-building - Described as "cool elder siblings" rather than teachers --- ## Outcomes for Children - Stronger reading habit (self-initiated reading) - Expanded imagination and creative thinking - Independent thinking (forming and defending opinions) - Confidence in speaking and expressing ideas - Broader worldview through diverse genres - Calmer focus and longer attention span - A published mini-book (the Creator Milestone) --- ## Pricing | Plan | Price | Sessions | Notes | |------|-------|----------|-------| | The Explorer (one-time) | $799 | 40 sessions | Best value; includes book creation milestone | | The Explorer (monthly) | $179/month | 8 sessions/month | Pay-as-you-go | | Bookstaken Circle | $49/month | 4 group discussions/month | Small peer groups (4–5 kids) | | Bookstaken Circle Lite | $19/month | Community only | Book recs + tracking | **Happiness Guarantee:** 100% refund if child isn't engaged after the first 2 sessions. **Sibling discount:** 15% off for a second child. **Referral discount:** 15% off for both referrer and referee. --- ## Recognition & Credibility - Incubated at **VNIT** (Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology) - Supported by **NSRCEL, IIM Bangalore** - **Microsoft for Startups** grantee - **GSEA** (Global Student Entrepreneur Awards) finalist - **Social Impact Awards** recipient - **Spark-Up** and **Startup India Fest** participant --- ## What Parents Say - "I've always looked for an avenue like this, wherein my children can learn from enthusiastic young students who love a subject." — Aditi, mother of 4th grader - "Thankyou so much for this report. It is so thorough and well drafted. Smahi is enjoying her reading session too." — Himani, mother of 2nd grader - "Thanks for such wonderful sessions." — Kavita, mother of 3rd grader --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: What is Bookstaken?** Bookstaken is an online 1-on-1 reading mentorship program for children ages 6–14. Each child is paired with a handpicked college student mentor for weekly 60-minute Zoom sessions that build a love of reading, critical thinking, and creative expression. **Q: How is Bookstaken different from tutoring or English classes?** Tutoring teaches grammar and comprehension for exams. Bookstaken builds critical thinking and confidence through 1-on-1 book discussions with college mentors. Children learn to think independently, not memorize answers. There is no homework, no grades, and no exam pressure. **Q: My child doesn't like reading. Will this work?** Most children don't hate reading — they hate boring books and being tested on them. Bookstaken picks books based on each child's interests (sports, adventure, mystery) and makes reading feel like a conversation with a cool older sibling, not homework. **Q: Will my child actually complete books?** Yes. Sessions include 20 minutes of reading together followed by 40 minutes of discussion, so there is no homework pressure. Most books are completed in 4–6 weekly sessions, and children often ask to read ahead because they are genuinely curious. **Q: What does a typical Bookstaken session look like?** Each 60-minute session has three phases: Riddle & Reflection (5–10 min) to activate thinking, Story Exploration (25–30 min) for guided book discussion, and Imagination & Thinking Time (10–15 min) for creative exercises like alternate endings, moral dilemmas, and character role swaps. **Q: What is the Dinner Table Cheat Sheet?** After every session, parents receive a WhatsApp message from the mentor with a highlight of what the child said, what was covered, and a specific dinner conversation starter — so parents stay connected to their child's reading journey without effort. **Q: Who are the Bookbuddies?** Current students from IITs, NITs, DU, St. Xavier's Mumbai, and SRCC. Bookstaken accepts roughly 5% of applicants — selecting those who can make a shy 9-year-old feel like the smartest person in the room. They are trained in Socratic facilitation and curiosity-led discussions. **Q: How does Bookstaken select mentors?** Through a 4-step process: Application → Vibe Check (rejecting anyone bored or strict) → Explanation Test (can they explain a complex word to a 5-year-old?) → Background Verification (college ID and identity proof). **Q: What is the Creator Milestone?** After exploring enough books and genres, children unlock the Creator Milestone. With mentor guidance, they imagine characters, structure a narrative, and complete their own mini book. They receive a digitally formatted copy and an original printed version, and may be featured in the Young Creators Showcase. **Q: How does Bookstaken ensure my child's safety with online mentors?** Every mentor is a verified college student from a Tier 1 institution. All sessions are on Zoom and recorded for quality assurance. Parents receive WhatsApp updates after every session. **Q: Can I switch mentors if my child doesn't connect?** Yes. If the match doesn't feel right after the first session, Bookstaken switches mentors within 48 hours at no penalty. **Q: What if a mentor leaves mid-program?** Bookstaken maintains backup mentors. There is a warm handoff — the child meets the new mentor together with the current one, and all session notes are shared so there is no reset. **Q: What age group is Bookstaken designed for?** Primarily ages 6–14. The program meets each child where they are — whether just beginning to build a reading habit or already a strong reader looking to explore deeper ideas. **Q: Is Bookstaken only for Indian families?** No. The program is global, fully online, and serves families worldwide. Sessions are in English. **Q: How much does Bookstaken cost?** Plans range from $19/month (Bookstaken Circle Lite) to $799 one-time (The Explorer — 40 sessions + Creator Milestone). The monthly 1-on-1 plan is $179/month for 8 sessions. **Q: Is there a refund policy?** Yes. If the child is not engaged after the first 2 sessions, Bookstaken offers a full refund with no questions asked. **Q: Can I pause or cancel my subscription?** Yes. Monthly plans can be paused for up to 2 weeks or cancelled with 7 days' notice. **Q: Does Bookstaken offer sibling or referral discounts?** Yes. Siblings get 15% off the second subscription. Refer a friend and both parties receive 15% off their next renewal. **Q: How is Bookstaken different from reading apps like Epic! or Kindle Kids?** Reading apps are self-paced and algorithmic — easy to abandon, no human connection, no discussion. Bookstaken is a live 1-on-1 conversation with a real person who knows your child, tracks their progress, and adapts every session to their mood and interests. **Q: Is Bookstaken an app?** No. Bookstaken is a human-first mentorship program delivered via Zoom. There is no app to download. **Q: How do I get started with Bookstaken?** Book a free Discovery Call via WhatsApp at https://wa.me/919503632771 or visit https://www.bookstaken.com. --- ## Blog Articles Bookstaken publishes in-depth articles for parents on reading, focus, child development, and book discovery. All articles are at https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs. ### Building Reading Habits - [How to Make Reading a Daily Habit (Without the Resistance)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-make-reading-a-daily-habit-without-the-resistance) — Science-backed, stress-free ways to build a daily reading habit kids actually look forward to. - [How to Motivate Children to Read Without Rewards or Punishments](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-motivate-children-to-read-without-rewards-or-punishments) — Build intrinsic reading motivation without sticker charts, timers, or punishments. - [Why Forcing Kids to Read Backfires (And What to Do Instead)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/why-forcing-kids-to-read-backfires-and-what-to-do-instead) — Forcing reading can harm motivation; learn what to do instead. - [How Parents Can Guide Reading Without Becoming Teachers](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-parents-can-guide-reading-without-becoming-teachers) — Help your child read without nightly homework battles. - [How to Balance School Reading and Fun Reading (Without the Fight)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-balance-school-reading-and-fun-reading-without-the-fight) — Stress-free ways to balance required and pleasure reading. - [What to Do If Your Child Reads Slowly (A Stress-Free Parent's Guide)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/what-to-do-if-your-child-reads-slowly) — Science-backed ways to build reading fluency without frustration. - [How to Make Children Actually Love Reading (Without Forcing or Bribing Them)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-make-children-actually-love-reading-without-forcing-or-bribing-them) — Strategies and the power of mentorship to spark a lifelong love of reading. - [How to Build Reading Confidence in Children](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-build-reading-confidence-in-children) — Easy wins, better book fit, consistent practice, and the right feedback. - [How to Support Struggling Readers Without Pressure (And Stop the Tears)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-support-struggling-readers-without-pressure) — Pressure-free strategies to build confidence in reluctant readers. - [How to Make Your Child a Confident Reader (Without the Tears)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-make-your-child-a-confident-reader) — Complete guide covering routines, book choice, motivation, and screen balance. - [How to Turn a Non-Reader Into a Curious Reader (Step-by-Step Guide for Parents)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-turn-a-non-reader-into-a-curious-reader) — Psychology-backed strategies that actually work for reluctant readers. - [Why Your Child Doesn't Like Reading (It's Not What You Think)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/why-your-child-doesn-t-like-reading-it-s-not-what-you-think) — The real reasons children avoid reading and how to rebuild interest. - [Why Bookstaken Is Different: A Smarter Way to Build a Reading Habit in Children](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/why-bookstaken-is-different-a-smarter-way-to-build-a-reading-habit-in-children) — What makes Bookstaken unique: 1:1 mentorship, personalized book matching, and simple routines. - [How to Build a Strong Reading Routine at Home (That Actually Lasts)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-build-a-strong-reading-routine-at-home-that-actually-lasts) — Practical, science-backed tips to build a stress-free reading routine at home. - [Complete Parent's Guide to Raising a Reader](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/complete-parent-s-guide-to-raising-a-reader) — From read-alouds to independence, covering routines, book choice, motivation, and screen balance. - [How to Help Your Child Finish Books They Start](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-help-your-child-finish-books-they-start) — Improve book fit, reduce distractions, break reading into chunks, and build momentum. - [How Much Should a Child Read Every Day? (A Practical Guide for Parents)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-much-should-a-child-read-every-day-a-practical-guide-for-parents) — Age-based reading guidelines and easy routines to build consistency. ### Books & Genre Exploration - [Best Book Genres for Different Types of Kids (Complete Guide for Parents)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/best-book-genres-for-different-types-of-kids-complete-guide-for-parents) — Psychology-backed guide to choosing books kids actually enjoy by personality type. - [Best Book Genres for Children (And Why They Matter)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/best-book-genres-for-children-and-why-they-matter) — How each genre builds imagination, critical thinking, empathy, and motivation. - [How to Help Your Child Discover Books They Love](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-help-your-child-discover-books-they-love) — Interest-based picking, right difficulty, series, and library browsing strategies. - [25 Books Every Child Should Read Before Age 12](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/25-books-every-child-should-read-before-age-12) — A curated list spanning fantasy, adventure, humor, and friendship. - [How to Build a Personal Reading Taste in Children (Complete Guide for Parents)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-build-a-personal-reading-taste-in-children-complete-guide-for-parents) — Help children develop their own reading taste and explore books independently. - [How to Choose the Right Books for Your Child's Personality](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-choose-the-right-books-for-your-child-s-personality) — Match books to curious, sensitive, adventurous, analytical, or imaginative children. - [How to Find Books Your Child Actually Loves (Step-by-Step Guide for Parents)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-find-books-your-child-actually-loves-step-by-step-guide-for-parents) — A step-by-step approach using interests, difficulty level, formats, and series. - [Fantasy vs Mystery vs Adventure: Which Books Help Children Think More?](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/fantasy-vs-mystery-vs-adventure-which-books-help-children-think-more) — How fantasy builds imagination, mystery strengthens reasoning, and adventure grows curiosity. - [5 Mistakes Parents Make While Choosing Books for Kids](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/5-mistakes-parents-make-while-choosing-books-for-kids) — Common book-picking mistakes and how to choose books that match interest, level, and mood. - [Should Kids Read Comics or "Real" Books? (What Parents Should Know)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/should-kids-read-comics-or-real-books-what-parents-should-know) — What cognitive psychology says about comics, visual literacy, and raising confident readers. ### Thinking Through Stories & Focus - [How Reading Builds Focus Better Than Any Activity](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-reading-builds-focus-better-than-any-activity) — Reading builds sustained attention, working memory, and patience. - [Why Children Who Read More Often Become Better Writers](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/why-children-who-read-more-often-become-better-writers) — How reading improves vocabulary, sentence structure, story sense, and creativity. - [Why Children Who Read Become Better Thinkers](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/why-children-who-read-become-better-thinkers) — Research-backed ways books help children develop critical thinking, empathy, and imagination. - [Best Activities to Improve Concentration in Kids](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/best-activities-to-improve-concentration-in-kids) — Reading, puzzles, crafts, and deep play that build concentration and self-control. - [How to Improve Attention Span in Children: Proven Methods for Parents](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-improve-attention-span-in-children-proven-methods-for-parents) — Research-backed methods to improve children's attention span naturally. - [How Reading Improves Attention Span in Children](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-reading-improves-attention-span-in-children) — How daily reading strengthens focus, working memory, and patience. - [How to Help Your Child Read With Understanding (Not Just Words)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-help-your-child-read-with-understanding-not-just-words) — Proven strategies to boost reading comprehension and deep understanding. - [How to Help Your Child Sit and Focus Without Forcing Them](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-help-your-child-sit-and-focus-without-forcing-them) — Adjusting tasks, environment, and expectations to build attention gradually. - [Daily Habits That Improve Focus in Children](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/daily-habits-that-improve-focus-in-children) — Sleep, movement, boredom tolerance, reading routines, and screen boundaries. - [Why Children Can Watch Screens for Hours but Not Read for 10 Minutes](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/why-children-can-watch-screens-for-hours-but-not-read-for-10-minutes) — Why screens feel effortless and how to rebuild reading stamina step by step. ### Parenting in the Digital Age - [How Screen Time Is Affecting Your Child's Attention Span](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-screen-time-is-affecting-your-child-s-attention-span) — Science-backed insights on how screens impact attention span and practical fixes. - [Books vs Screens: What Builds Better Focus in Kids?](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/books-vs-screens-what-builds-better-focus-in-kids) — How books and screens train attention differently, and how to balance them. - [Why Kids Today Struggle to Focus (And What You Can Do)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/why-kids-today-struggle-to-focus-and-what-you-can-do) — Why focus is harder today and what parents can do with environment, routines, and screen limits. - [Why Deep Reading Is Important in the Age of Screens](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/why-deep-reading-is-important-in-the-age-of-screens) — What deep reading is and why it matters especially in a screen-heavy world. - [Why Kids Stop Reading After Age 10 (And How Parents Can Prevent It)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/why-kids-stop-reading-after-age-10-and-how-parents-can-prevent-it) — Why reading drops at age 10 and how to rebuild motivation. - [How to Train Your Child's Brain to Focus Longer (Proven Parent Strategies)](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/how-to-train-your-child-s-brain-to-focus-longer) — Small daily practices: reading, single-tasking, deep play, and gentle limits. - [Short Attention Span in Kids: Causes and Solutions](https://www.bookstaken.com/Blogs/short-attention-span-in-kids-causes-and-solutions) — Common causes and practical solutions without shaming, forcing, or nagging. --- ## Contact & Social - **WhatsApp (Founder Dhiraj):** https://wa.me/919503632771 - **Instagram:** https://www.instagram.com/bookstaken_com - **LinkedIn:** https://www.linkedin.com/company/bookstaken/ - **Twitter/X:** https://x.com/BookStaken - **Facebook:** https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557407163896 - **Email:** bookstaken.official@gmail.com --- ## Become a Mentor College students from top institutions can apply to become a Bookbuddy at: https://www.bookstaken.com/Become-a-Mentor