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20 Great Books to Read Aloud to Your Kids

Summer vacation often brings kids and parents a sense of freedom. However, the absence of daily school leaves many parents looking for ways to keep young minds sharp and occupied. Reading out loud with your kids is not only a fantastic way to keep the books open at home and during the summer, but it also gives parents and children a meaningful and lasting way to connect and spend time together. Reading out loud together offers parents and children alike the opportunity to build cherished memories as a family. Here is a list of a variety of great books to read out loud to your kids that the whole family will enjoy!

For pre-school through early elementary school kids:

1. The Giant Jam Sandwich by John Vernon Lord

When their town is threatened by an infestation of wasps, these resourceful citizens come up with a brilliant plan that will leave you and your children giggling.

2. The Piggy in the Puddle by Charlotte Pomerantz

This little book, written in catchy tongue-twisting rhymes, will delight your little ones.

3. Golly Gump Swallowed a Fly by Joanna Cole

This is a fun singsong story about the potential complications of swallowing an insect!

4. Pinkalicious by Victoria Kann & Elizabeth Kann

Ever been threatened that you would turn into whatever you ate? This becomes a shocking reality for a little girl who loves pink cupcakes.

5. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff

The wild cause-and-effect narration in this story will bring hilarious anticipation at the turn of each page!

6. All By Myself (Little Critter) by Mercer Mayer

This little tale connects with youngsters who are eager to gain their independence.

7. I Love You Forever by Robert Munsch

This book will bring parents and children together with its sweet portrayal of the love between a son and his mother.

8. Oh the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss’s goofy rhymes will entertain and fill kids with wonder!

9. Goose Goofs Off by Jacquelyn Reinach

This is an ironic story about a goose that tries to procrastinate in an attempt to have a day of relaxation. She learns some important lessons, including the value of good friends.

10. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst

This story about a boy’s rough day is laden with humor that will surely bring smiles.

For later elementary school through middle school kids:

 

11. Junie B. Jones by Barbara Park

Park’s Junie B. Jones series is written from the hysterical point of view of a kindergartener. Her understandings of the world and people around her are a priceless joy.

12. Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein

This book of quirky and silly poems is a quick read that will leave you and your kids laughing out loud!

13. The Wanderer by Sharon Creech

A young woman and her cousins go on an adventure. Parents and children will both enjoy this journey of self-discovery and familial bonds.

14. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

Charlotte’s Web is a charming animal tale that bestows a great amount of wisdom upon its readers. This is a wonderful read for all ages.

15. Holes by Louis Sachar

This is a marvelous read for children interested in a fun adventure laden with mystery.

16. Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary

Ramona is a quirky little girl with a big personality. Her stories are great out-loud reads!

17. The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner

The Boxcar Children is a perfect choice for a calm afternoon read with the kids.

18. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

C.S. Lewis has a remarkable level of symbolism and wisdom in his Chronicles of Narnia. This second book will leave children in awe and eager for more.

19. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

If your kids like lots of adventure and lots of humor, this spunky and fresh series is sure to please. The wide variety of characters and personalities makes for a brilliant read-out-loud experience.

20. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Hobbit is an epic adventure story filled with fantasy and folklore! It is a thrilling story for the young and old alike.                   

Like the article? We bet you’ll love this book:

“Mama let’s make a moon; it won’t cost too much. We’ll use second-hand stardust And leftover love; We’ll stuff it with silly And marshmallow goo And paint it with promise. Mama, Let’s make a m…

Mama, Let’s Make a Moon

Clay Rice

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