Learning the art of reading is a sequential process. Children first learn to decode original sounds, then commence comprehending words, and gradually imbibe entire passages of text. Reading develops the mind and enhances language skills. It also augments imagination and creativity in kids.
Here are some recommendations for children of all age groups. They will help develop the vital skill of reading and keep your child constructively engaged.
Kindergarten Kids
● I Got a New Friend
Author: Karl Newsom Edwards
Genre: Fiction
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
This book is a heartwarming story of friendship. Getting a puppy home means opening doors to a brand new friendship. At first, the little brown and white puppy is a bit shy and scared. The new surroundings intimidate the furry creature. Gradually, the pup settles down. The puppy and kid team are sometimes sloppy, noisy, and smelly but the bond makes it all worthy.
The text makes a simple read, and the illustrations are straightforward.
● Good Night, Like This
Author: Mary Murphy
Genre: Fiction
Reading Level: Pre-Reader
A perfect bedtime tale that will indeed calm your child’s senses and help fall asleep. The book demonstrates how each animal pair wishes goodnight. Combination of words such as ‘yawny and dozy’; ‘tickly and feathery’ makes the vocabulary rhythmic and innovative.
The illustrations are specially done in deep hues to offer compatibility with the bedtime story.
Grades I &II
● The Toy Brother
Author: William Steig
Genre: Fiction, Fantasy
Reading Level: Beginners
With the parents stepping out of the house on a trip, Yorick decides to explore his father’s alchemy. He accidentally invents a shrinking potion. On consuming his discovering, he shrinks to a size even smaller than his younger brother. The tiny Yorick must now rely on his younger brother, Charles to keep him safe until the spell reverses.
The author’s use of vibrant language and cartoon illustrations make the book a fascinating read.
● Fabulous Frogs
Author: Martin Jenkins
Genre: Nonfiction
Reading Level: Beginners
From swimming tadpoles to the appearance of frogs, the book beautifully captures the life cycle of these amphibians. It also renders brief information on frog facts. Of the diverse 5000 kinds of frogs in the world, the book introduces some of the species in the most colourful, lively and dramatic manner. Some of the frog sounds are also efficiently incorporated into the page designs.
An immensely informative and engaging book!
Grades III to V
● The Capital Catch (Ballpark Mysteries)
Author: David A Kelly
Genre: Fiction, Mystery
Reading Level: Independent Reader
The book presents a new mystery to solve for Mike and Kate. The brother of the President is all geared up to play baseball in the Nation’s Capital. But someone is snitching the equipment of the players. It’s time for the duo to find the offender.
This temperate mystery keeps the reader engaged until the last page. Of course, the baseball fans will love it!
● The Great Antonio
Author: Elise Gravel
Genre: Fiction, Myths, and Legends
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Antonio Barichievich was a giant living in Montreal, Canada. Weighing as much as a horse, this giant could drag four buses filled with people! With wit and verve, the author brings to life the story of this enormous giant.
The graphics, bright illustrations, and accessible text augment the appeal of this book.
Grades VI to VIII
● Curious Constructions: A Peculiar Portfolio of Fifty Fascinating Structures
Author: Michael Hearst
Genre: Nonfiction
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Most children of this age group are familiar with famous structures like the Eiffel Tower and The Great Wall of China. But what about the lesser known structures such as Kingda Ka and the Svalbard Global Seed Vault? All these fascinating structures project a powerful amalgamation of science and imagination.
The book ignites the curiosity and inspires thought and participation.
● Real Friends
Author: Shannon Hale
Genre: Nonfiction, Biography
Reading Level: Independent Reader
Some children may identify with the pivotal character of the book. Shannon struggles to overcome the bullying of Jenny in school and her older sister at home. She longs for a true friend who can truly understand her emotions and stand by her through thick and thin.
The story ends on a positive note leaving the reader with a sense of delight.
Final Word
Reading is essential to your child’s success. Get started right away. Build on your child’s vocabulary and future!
The value of reading cannot be emphasized enough in young children. As parents, we need to make this a priority. Click to know books to read this summer.
