Here are some excellent book choices for your child to read to herself or for you and your child to read aloud together.
Reading aloud together is a great approach to use with your emergent reader. She might not be able to read independently, but will be encouraged to do so through your example. Reading aloud is an excellent option to help your child build comprehension by asking, “Who, what, when, where, and why?” throughout the story.
These are my top five favorites that my nine-year-old daughter has tested recently:
1. Hugo – This beautifully illustrated story will spark your child’s imagination to the creativity in life’s experiences.
2. Nancy Drew series – My daughter’s great aunt sent us her old copy of this series. Forgot how good it is. Bella loves the action and adventure in these books.
3. The Wings of Fire series – Bella’s favorite books right now play on her love of dragons.
4. The Doll People series – Dolls come alive and have many interesting human-like interactions with each other.
5. The Warriors series – These will appeal to your cat lover, or in our case, our girl who loves both cats and dog!
Additionally, the following article by Carrie Goldman provides a more comprehensive list of great chapter books:
Amazing Awesome List of Best Chapter Books for Kids
To confirm that these might appeal, use the Goodreads app on your smart phone, tablet or computer. Goodreads provides a great summary and reader reviews for specific titles.
For those of you with sons, what are some of your favorite books that you or your child might recommend? Welcome recommendations to share with my students.