Information-based books are available in abundance and popular with students enrolled in the upper elementary and middle school grades. With a growing emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), teachers are including informational texts in the classroom. Preteens are expected to think critically, read more complex texts, and build stronger vocabularies; information-based texts can help students in all these areas. Effective resources are needed as teachers select nonfiction and informational literature. By using the short checklist based on specific characteristics, teachers can assess texts, completing the selection process with confidence and ease.