My favorite time of the day is when we read aloud. We do this twice a day and I absolutely love it.
During school time, we read a little of a novel, a little Bible, some history, and whatever else comes up to read aloud. In the evenings, before bed, we enjoy reading a family devotional as well as a novel for the whole family to enjoy.
I think it's something the whole family enjoys. We even read adult books that have themes the kids can understand. It is so nice to see them grow and learn. I'm always amazed at the things they take away from the stories we read together.
We enjoy Bible stories, fiction, and non-fiction. It is also a great way to expand their horizons and to get them reading something that they may not normally read. For example, Tbomb likes reading books about facts. Snapper likes looking at atlases and books about the human body and sharks. This gets them interested in literature and fiction books.
Here are family favorites. We really love getting started with series, because we are never at a loss of what to read next. However, some of our favorites are stand-alone books.
1. Little House On The Prairie (Series)
This is definitely my favorite. Not only is it wholesome and I do not have to worry about what themes are in it, but it is historical. My kids love learning about different aspects of life in the late 1800s and we have researched many things mentioned in the books.
There is one scene in "Farmer Boy," the second in the series with violence. The violence is implied and does not describe what actually happened and it opens the door for some real-life conversations.
2. Strawberry Girl
I had asked my MIL, who is also an avid reader for suggestions on books to read with the kids. Her favorite when she was a kid was a book called Strawberry Girl. I had never heard of it, but I found it and ordered it.
We fell in love. The voice of the main character is amazing. It is full of history, everyday life, and culture. It is a must-read.
3. Tuttle Twins (Series)
I love how these books explain government and economics in a way that kids can understand. It opens many conversations and we have even pulled out my copy of The Constitution to discuss issues.
I love having these conversations with my kids. They learn so much and are learning critical thinking and learning to think for themselves.
4. Wonder
There's not much to say. It's a wonderful book with a lot of lessons. There are lessons for kids with disabilities and without. Truly amazing. Lots of tough conversations as well.
If you haven't read it, you must.
5. Finding Gobi
Such a feel-good book. We are a dog family and we have lost a dog and found him. During certain points, it was sad for the kids and we would read a little further so they wouldn't be stuck on the sad part.
Great book with problem-solving, teamwork, and some geography.
6. Unicorn Academy (Series)
Snapper just loves these books. She loves Unicorns and is obsessed with proving they are real.
These are fun books with tales of friendship and problem solving as a team. While each book is a stand-alone story, there is a background story that is woven through each book.
7. 101 Campfire Stories
This book was actually gifted to us by my in-laws when we went camping. Each story is short- we read two or three each night. They aren't too scary, mostly mysterious.
The kids loved it and it added to the ambiance of camping.
8. Because of Winn-Dixie
This is such a cute story about a preachers' daughter and her dad. She feels like an outsider, but the dog she finds opens doors to conversations with members of the community.
Great story of growing up, personal growth, community, and helping others.
Definitely a win!
9. 365 Bible Answers for Curious Kids
I just adore this book. Each day there is a simple question that is related to a child's life and a Bible answer for it with the scripture to support it. The questions are all across the board- even science and history.
We have read through this book several times and will continue to do so because it starts such great conversations.
10. Lake Scatter Wood Tales (Series)
This was a gift for my son and it turned out the whole family loves it. The boys in this book are at camp and have some crazy tales to tell.
Such a fun read with the family.
Books on our list to read:
1. Hatchet
2. Mary Poppins
3. Goosebumps
4. The Mouse And The Motorcycle
5. Tales of A Fourth Grade Nothing
What books should I add to this list?
