A good book allows a child to stretch their imaginations and escape to worlds unknown. Starting early can help children develop a life-long love of reading. Take some time to turn off the electronics and give your child a book to develop his or her brain. Here are some books for your budding bookworm at any age.
“Weslandia“ by Paul Fleischman
This book explores the summer vacation of Wesley, a child who plants his own garden and ends up learning many lessons about civilization. Your children will love going on Wesley’s journey with him and will learn some lessons of their own. The book teaches kids to stay true to themselves and to be comfortable within their own skin. The illustrations are stunning, so your kids will like looking at the pictures as well. Pick up the hardcover edition on Amazon for $12.75.
“The Absent Author“ by Ron Roy
A good introduction to chapter books, this mystery series offers kids a fun ride along with three kids as they solve mysteries. “The Absent Author” is the first book in the series and follows Dink, Josh and Ruth Rose as they go on a quest to find a famous author whom they believe to be kidnapped. Kids who like solving puzzles will enjoy this series. Available for $3.59 at Barnes and Noble, you’ll be able to buy more books in the series.
“The Top 10 Ways to Ruin the First Day of 5th Grade” by Kenneth Derby
Kenneth Derby appeals to class clowns with his tale of Tony Madison and his journey to get an invitation to the “Late Show with David Letterman.” Tony pulls plenty of shenanigans and sends numerous Top Ten lists to the “Late Show” host until he finally gets an invitation to New York to meet Dave himself. Your comedian will howl with laughter reading all about Tony and his adventures in New York City. Buy it for $7at Barnes and Noble.
“The Clay Lion“ Amalie Jahn
Open your child’s eyes to the wonders of fiction with this tale of Brooke Wallace, a girl who desperately wants to save her brother’s life. People in this world can time travel, but only after they’ve turned 18. Brooke takes the opportunity to go back in time to try and prevent her brother’s death, and what ensues teaches her valuable life lessons. Your child will bond with these characters and their struggles and squabbles. Get it for $13.99 at Amazon, or buy the Kindle edition for $4.99.
“Daughter of Smoke and Bone“ by Laini Taylor
While Laini Taylor’s first book in a trilogy is partly set in a fantasy world, the issues that protagonist Karou faces in day-to-day life are relatable for most teens. From finding her identity to falling for a mysterious stranger, Karou navigates her world the way most teenagers do and makes a few stumbles along the way. Well written with detailed imagery and a fast-moving plot, this book is a great summer read. Buy it for $9.99 at the Tattered Cover.
Reading doesn’t have to be a chore. By letting your kids explore literature from many genres, you can help them shape their personalities and define their preferences. Let them peruse the store and find things that speak to them, and they will be whooping all of their friends at Scrabble in no time.
