I’ve found that reading aloud to children is a great way to get them interested in reading chapter books themselves. It’s also a great way to spend time together, while enjoying stories everyone can talk about, discuss, and sometimes even laugh about. As a bonus, reading chapter books to children can improve their vocabulary and enhances their creativity.
Depending on the child’s age, you can read a chapter or two each day. The length of time it takes to get through the entire book isn’t important. What matters is sharing a story that is engaging enough to keep their interest throughout the book, so they can enjoy the story.
Here’s a list of 12 chapter books that are perfect for reading aloud. These are all considered a middle grade book, but will be enjoyed by all.
Nanny Piggins (8-Book Series) by R.A. Spratt
If you haven’t met Nanny Piggins yet, you must!
All eight books in the series are hilarious and fun to read aloud. While the books do follow in sequence, they can each be read as stand-alones. All you need to know to start reading any of the books is that Nanny Piggins loves chocolate, the three Greene children, and adventure.
Nanny Piggins is a beloved character, and there’s no one like her. Mr. Greene regrets the day he hired her, but Nanny Piggins has made the kids’ life fun and unlike anything they could’ve ever imagined.
A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond
Oh, sweet Paddington Bear and his adventures! This is such a classic story kids just love to listen to. From the moment he met the Brown family, their lives have never been the same. Paddington’s naïveté and optimism make him quite an endearing character. It’s fun to follow him along in his journey in London.
As a bonus, have a movie night after reading the book to see the story come to life.
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
This one quickly became a beloved book that I’ve read a few times. As soon as you meet Roz, you’ll fall in love with her. Her authentic and optimistic nature are infectious. As special as Roz is, what truly add to the charm of this story are the woodland creatures she encounters. Without them, the theme of the story wouldn’t be the same. This is truly a heartwarming story, with phenomenal illustrations.
This is Book 1 of 2. The second book was good, but Book 1 is my favorite.
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
This is a touching and beautiful story about friendship and bravery. Told from the POV of Ivan the gorilla, we truly get a sense of the life he’s lived and his plight. Overall, this is a mostly sad story, with a positive undertone, and uplifting message.
It works well as a read-aloud book, because there are quite a few situations open the door to great discussions. The story is engaging from beginning to end, and will likely stay with you for a long time.
This is Book 1 of 2. I enjoyed Book 2, but not as much as this one.
See my review here.
The Chocolate Touch by Patrick Skene Catling
This is a fun way to teach an important lesson: Too much of a good thing is bad. In an engaging manner, the story of young John Midas serves to show young readers why moderation is important. The characters and realistic situations make this story relatable to all.
I suggest reading/telling the story of King Midas to young readers first. They’ll then easily be able to find similarities between both stories.
See my review here.
How about you? Have you read any of these books yet? I’d love to know!
