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The National Literacy Trust’s key findings from research on children and young people’s reading in 2023 are bleak. It demonstrates a depressing and gloomy decline in the reading levels of children and young people since 2005. Some jarring statistics from the report include that:
- Only 2 in 5 (43.4%) children and young people aged 8 to 18 said they enjoyed reading in their free time.
- Fewer than 3 in 10 (28%) children and young people aged 8 to 18 said they read daily in 2023.
Within the 8 to 18 age group that:
- 1 in 2 (52.9%) stated that they had been encouraged to read by their parents or carers.
- 3 in 5 (58.4%) had seen their parents or carers read.
- 1 in 5 (19.9%) had read with their family.
The 2023 report (similar to the reports of the preceding years) cautioned on the increasingly visible downward trends that needed to be addressed urgently.
10 Surprising Impact of Reading on Children’s Cognitive Development
As parents, we are expected to show our children beautiful things. This starts with reading as it opens us up to:
- A world of imagination, curiosity, and creativity.
- Sensory words that enable us all to feel, hear, see, smell, and taste our words.
- Power words and their impact on life.
Reading plays a crucial role in our children’s cognitive development, influencing various aspects of their intellectual growth. Here are several ways in which reading impacts our children’s cognitive development:
Language Skills
Exposure to a rich vocabulary through books enhances our children’s language development. Reading aloud helps our children learn new words, and sentence structures, and improves their overall language comprehension.
Cognitive Skills
Reading stimulates cognitive processes such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. Engaging with diverse stories and characters encourages critical thinking and imaginative reasoning.
Academic Achievement
Regular reading is linked to improved academic performance, especially in language arts and other subjects. Children who read regularly tend to have better writing skills, spelling, and grammar.
Literacy Skills
Early exposure to books helps in the development of foundational literacy skills. Reading assists in letter recognition, phonemic awareness, and understanding the mechanics of reading.
Concentration and Focus
Reading stories or solving puzzles in books requires sustained attention, contributing to the development of concentration and focus in our children.
Social and Emotional Development
Stories often convey emotions, moral lessons, and social dynamics, aiding in the development of empathy and emotional intelligence. Reading about characters’ experiences helps children understand and relate to various emotions.
Cultural Awareness
Exposure to diverse literature introduces our children to different cultures, perspectives, and traditions. This exposure fosters an understanding and appreciation for diversity.
Memory Development
Recalling story details and characters enhances memory development. Children learn to remember and sequence events, which is beneficial for memory skills.
Critical Thinking
Analyzing plotlines, and characters, and making predictions while reading promotes critical thinking skills. Children learn to question, infer, and draw conclusions from the content they engage with.
Communication Skills
Reading and discussing stories with parents, teachers, or peers enhances communication skills. Children learn to express their thoughts and ideas effectively.
I have found that encouraging a love for reading from an early age can have a lasting impact on your children’s cognitive development. It not only contributes to their academic success but also nurtures a well-rounded and intellectually curious individual.
10 Factors That Can Influence Children to Develop into Lifelong Readers
Developing a lifelong love for reading is influenced by various factors, and a combination of these elements can contribute to a child’s ongoing engagement with books. Here are key factors that influence your children to become lifelong readers:
Early Exposure to Books
Introducing your children to books from a young age creates a positive association with reading. Bedtime stories and interactive reading sessions foster a love for storytelling. I found that a child’s imagination can occasionally be captivated by a single important book that shapes the narrative of their life.
Positive Reading Environment
Creating a supportive and comfortable reading environment at home or in school encourages your children to view reading as an enjoyable activity. Accessible and well-organized libraries contribute to a positive reading atmosphere.
Parental Involvement
When you as parents model a love for reading and engage in shared reading activities with your children, it positively influences their reading habits. Encouraging discussions about books and asking questions fosters comprehension and critical thinking.
Diverse Book Selection
Offering a variety of books that cater to different interests, genres, and reading levels helps your children discover their preferences. Exposure to diverse authors and perspectives broadens their reading experience.
Supportive Educational Environment
Teachers who cultivate a passion for reading in the classroom contribute significantly to your child’s reading development. A teacher or a librarian can offer a fantastic book that whets the appetite for more thought-provoking literature. Incorporating literature into the curriculum and providing a range of reading materials makes a difference.
Technology Integration
Leveraging digital resources, audiobooks, and interactive books can enhance engagement, especially for tech-savvy children. Balancing traditional and digital reading experiences ensures a well-rounded approach.
Celebrating Reading Achievements
Recognizing and celebrating reading milestones, such as completing a book or achieving a certain reading level, reinforces positive behavior. We did this with the Biff, Chip, and Kipper book series and also the Berenstain Bears Collection which we loved. Awards, certificates, or simple praise can boost a child’s confidence and motivation. You could also try rewarding them for every 10 books they read and make a big deal out of it.
Book-related Activities
Participating in book clubs, attending author events, or engaging in book-related projects encourages a sense of community and enthusiasm for reading. Book-related activities make reading a social and enjoyable experience. I set up and ran book clubs for my children with friends’ children. It led to insightful conversations that shaped different experiences for us all.
Freedom of Choice
Allowing children the freedom to choose their reading materials personalizes their reading experience and gives them greater autonomy. This autonomy fosters a sense of ownership and interest in the chosen books. I am all for autonomy and it needs to be age-appropriate as well.
Consistent Reading Routine
Establishing a regular reading routine, such as dedicated reading times or a set number of books per week, helps make reading a habit. Consistency contributes to the formation of lifelong reading habits. As they get older, you need to flexibly adapt the number of books to ensure the pleasure of reading and to avoid boredom.
By intentionally incorporating these factors into a child’s upbringing and educational experiences, parents, educators, and caregivers can significantly influence the development of lifelong readers who find joy, fulfillment, and knowledge in the world of books.
As teens get older, it can get difficult to motivate them to continue reading at certain times.
Below are my secret and effective strategies that I have used and still use in fostering and motivating a lifelong love of reading at home. I have also included 28 exciting books that we have read to spark a lifelong love of reading.
11 Secret and Effective Strategies for Getting My Children to Read (+ 28 Exciting Book Recommendations)
Reading to both Young and Old Readers in the Home
It’s comfortable curling up next to someone you love, reading picture books to little children on your lap, or falling asleep in bed. Kids will recall both the story and the intimacy. And many kids (including older ones) continue to enjoy read-aloud well after they learn to read on their own.
They gain from hearing the language’s flow, picking up proper pronunciation, being able to ask questions, and simply being able to unwind and enjoy the narrative.
Reading aloud to older children also:
- Builds their vocabulary which helps them perform better in school.
- Sparks their curiosity and a thirst for learning.
- Improves their comprehension especially when they are engaged and invested in the story.
- Is wonderful for bonding time as it evokes positive experiences and warm unforgettable memories with loved ones.
- Is a way to discover the classics as you can bring the text alive to them.
- Improves listening skills for understanding instructions later on in life.
- Helps with discussing difficult issues – I remember some of the discussions on empathy and bullying that followed our reading Wonder, and Out of My Mind. I shed tears on recalling bullying incidents that had happened in the past, and then talked about them with my children before setting the painful memories free.
- Is a portal into your kid’s interests which gives you something to share and discuss.
Recommended family favorites include:
“Wonder” by R.J. Palacio is a heartwarming novel that follows the life of August Pullman, a boy with a facial deformity, as he navigates his first year attending school. Told from multiple perspectives, the book explores themes of kindness, empathy, and acceptance. August’s journey, along with the impact he has on those around him, delivers a powerful and uplifting message about the beauty of compassion and the strength of the human spirit.
https://amzn.to/3SjdWqf (USA)
“Out of My Mind” by Sharon M. Draper is a novel that follows the story of Melody Brooks, an eleven-year-old girl with cerebral palsy. Unable to speak or move on her own, Melody possesses a brilliant mind and a photographic memory. The book chronicles Melody’s struggles and triumphs as she strives for acceptance and inclusion in a world that often underestimates her abilities. With determination and the support of those who believe in her, Melody finds her voice and defies societal expectations. The novel explores themes of perseverance, empathy, and the power of individuality.
https://amzn.to/4aV0Iay (USA)
Sharon M. Draper’s bestseller Out of My Heart (2021) returns to the story of Melody Brooks, a precocious and artistic 12-year-old with cerebral palsy. The story follows Draper’s 2013 novel Out of My Mind. Melody uses a wheelchair and communicates via her Medi-Talker, a computer device. Melody relates her experiences attending a one-week summer camp designed for kids with unique needs. The camp challenges Melody, now on her own far from home and her loving family. In sharing her experiences, Melody defies her sense of her limitations. The novel illustrates Melody’s growth as she comes to a broader perception of her capabilities each day at camp.
https://amzn.to/421xZwB (USA)
Making Family Reading a Priority
Take your young children to the library regularly to choose books and hear story times. Allowing your older children to visit the library on their own to choose their books aid their confidence and self-esteem.
Taking them shopping with you at your neighborhood bookshop, or looking for bargain books at charity, used, or second-hand stores. You can also buy pre-loved books on Amazon or books4people.co.uk
- I have danced, pranced, and squealed at the sights of beloved books at fairs to the chagrin of my children and owners of the stall. This enjoyment has unknowingly shown my children over time that finding a good book is like a treasure hunt. You as parents need to sell the love of books to your children.
- Setting aside time for reading only – turning off the TV, computer, and mobile phone. In our case, we chose not to have a TV but a projector in the house. It just takes all the hassle out. I love wrapping myself in a cozy corner with a good book, a cup of tea, and a scented candle in the background.
- Reading to your little ones at bedtime and providing time and space for your kids to read for pleasure in the car (if they don’t get carsick!), after homework is done, or on their own before bed.
Intentionally Learning About Book Series and Getting Stuck In
After becoming enthralled with a book series, many children go on to become lifelong readers. There are many excellent book series that can satiate your children’s appetites. Some of my family favorites include:
“The Land of Stories” book series by Chris Colfer follows the adventures of twins Alex and Conner Bailey as they discover a magical book that transports them into a world of fairy tales. The twins learn valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and the enduring power of stories. The series combines classic fairy tales with a modern twist, creating an engaging and imaginative journey for readers of all ages.
https://amzn.to/3S3b13s (USA)
The “Anne of Green Gables” box set by Lucy Maud Montgomery consists of a classic series following the adventures of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and spirited orphan mistakenly sent to Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, a brother, and sister who had intended to adopt a boy to help with their farm. Set in the picturesque town of Avonlea, the series chronicles Anne’s coming-of-age, her friendships, and her academic pursuits. Known for Anne’s vivid imagination, charming personality, and idyllic setting, the box set is a timeless collection that explores themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery.
https://amzn.to/47B6KKs (USA)
The “Young Samurai” book series by Chris Bradford follows the journey of Jack Fletcher, a young English boy who becomes shipwrecked in 17th-century Japan. Adopted by a samurai, Jack embarks on a quest for survival and self-discovery. Trained in the ways of the samurai, he faces numerous challenges, including cultural clashes, political intrigue, and deadly adversaries. The series combines action-packed martial arts scenes with elements of Japanese history and culture, providing an engaging and adventurous tale of a foreigner’s assimilation into the world of the samurai.
https://amzn.to/3vKqxtB (USA)
The Charles Dickens Collection: Deluxe 5-Volume Box Set Edition comprises five classic works by the renowned Victorian author. This collection features some of Dickens’ most iconic novels, each offering a vivid portrayal of 19th-century society. From the heartwarming tale of “A Christmas Carol” to the intricate plots of “Great Expectations” and “David Copperfield,” this box set provides readers with a comprehensive glimpse into Dickens’ masterful storytelling. The volumes are beautifully packaged, offering an immersive journey through Dickens’ timeless narratives, rich characters, and social commentary that continues to resonate with readers worldwide.
https://amzn.to/3RS7c0Y (USA)
The “Bodyguard Series” by Chris Bradford, a 6-book collection set, follows the thrilling adventures of teenage martial artist Connor Reeves, who is recruited into a covert organization to protect the lives of the world’s most at-risk individuals. In each installment, Connor faces dangerous missions, international intrigue, and high-stakes scenarios, showcasing his exceptional skills in martial arts and tactical expertise. Packed with action, suspense, and a gripping narrative, the series takes readers on a global journey as Connor navigates the complex world of high-stakes security and personal growth.
https://amzn.to/47E8faX (USA)
Listening To Audio Books
I loved to listen to audio compact disc books with my children on road journeys, and at night after having read a book with them. They ended up sleeping off listening to stories. It always felt to me like I left them safe meandering and wandering in a magical world. Some of my family favorites include:
The “Julia Donaldson Collection Audio CD” features a compilation of beloved children’s stories written by Julia Donaldson, narrated in audio format. This collection includes popular titles like “The Gruffalo,” “Stick Man,” “Room on the Broom,” and more. Each story is brought to life through engaging narration and captivating sound effects, offering an immersive and entertaining experience for young listeners. The audio CD provides a delightful way for children to enjoy the imaginative tales of Julia Donaldson, promoting literacy and a love for storytelling.
https://amzn.to/3RUIsFw (USA)
“The Roald Dahl Audio Collection” is a compilation of beloved children’s stories written by Roald Dahl and narrated in audio format. This 29-CD collection includes timeless classics such as “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “Matilda,” “The BFG,” and more. Each story is brought to life through engaging narration, captivating sound effects, and, in some cases, performances by talented actors. The audio collection provides an enchanting way for children to experience Dahl’s whimsical tales and imaginative worlds, fostering a love for literature and storytelling.
https://amzn.to/41ZOYiN (USA)
“The Dr. Seuss Collection Audio CD” features a delightful compilation of four timeless stories written by Dr. Seuss, narrated in audio format. This collection includes beloved classics such as “The Lorax” and “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.” Each story is brought to life through engaging narration and playful sound effects, providing a lively and entertaining auditory experience for young listeners. This audio CD offers a wonderful way for children to enjoy the whimsical and imaginative tales of Dr. Seuss, promoting early literacy and a love for storytelling.
https://amzn.to/3TYEP3V (USA)
The “Michael Morpurgo Audio Collection – 28 CDs” is a comprehensive anthology featuring the works of acclaimed children’s author Michael Morpurgo. This extensive audio collection includes a diverse range of Morpurgo’s captivating stories, each narrated in audio format. With 28 CDs, listeners can immerse themselves in Morpurgo’s imaginative and heartfelt tales, exploring themes of friendship, courage, and the power of storytelling. The collection offers a varied and enriching listening experience for audiences of all ages, making it a valuable addition to the world of audio literature.
https://amzn.to/3RUKci2 (USA)
“Green Eggs and Ham and Other Servings of Dr. Seuss Collection Audio CD” features a delightful compilation of nine timeless stories written by Dr. Seuss, narrated in audio format. This collection includes beloved classics such as “Green Eggs and Ham,” “One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish,” and “Fox in Socks.” Each story is brought to life through engaging narration and playful sound effects, providing a lively and entertaining auditory experience for young listeners. This audio CD offers a wonderful way for children to enjoy the whimsical and imaginative tales of Dr. Seuss, promoting early literacy and a love for storytelling.
https://amzn.to/4b1nHAW (USA)
It is interesting because they are revisiting some of these stories as teens and loving them. They have also kept the CDs as well. We have found listening to audiobooks is comforting and endearing like a warm blanket wrapped around you on a wet cold day. I encourage them as teens to download audiobooks to listen to on long drives.
Looking to Old Favourites (Classics)
Certain books are regarded as children’s classics because they captivate readers for generations to come. I love to re-read classics because, at different ages with varying stages of development, I have learned additional lessons and derived more joy from them. You should introduce your children to books you read as children. Our family favorites include:
“Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White is a timeless children’s novel that tells the heartwarming story of a friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte uses her web to weave messages that describe Wilbur as “Some Pig,” “Terrific,” and “Radiant,” turning him into a local sensation. The novel explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, delivering a poignant and memorable tale that has captured the hearts of readers for generations.
https://amzn.to/4aYe1qv (USA)
“We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” by Michael Rosen is a classic children’s picture book that follows a family’s adventurous journey as they embark on a bear hunt. The family encounters various obstacles like tall grass, a river, and a snowstorm, chanting repetitive phrases such as “We can’t go over it, we can’t go under it, oh no! We’ve got to go through it!” The rhythmic and repetitive nature of the text engages young readers, and the story culminates in a surprising and humorous twist. The book is known for its interactive and lively narrative, making it a favorite among children and parents alike.
https://amzn.to/48Aextc (USA)
The “Chronicles of Narnia 7-Book Collection” by C.S. Lewis is a classic fantasy series that follows the adventures of children who discover the magical land of Narnia. Beginning with “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” the series introduces readers to a world of talking animals, mythical creatures, and epic battles between good and evil. Each book explores different aspects of Narnia’s rich mythology, with themes of bravery, friendship, and morality woven throughout. The series captivates readers with its enchanting narrative, making it a beloved and enduring work of children’s literature. You can also get it in an Audio CD.
https://amzn.to/4aZ0KOt (USA)
“Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott is a classic novel that follows the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they navigate the challenges of adolescence, love, and societal expectations during the American Civil War. Set against the backdrop of the sisters’ coming-of-age, the novel explores themes of family, friendship, and personal growth. Each sister has her aspirations and struggles, and the narrative highlights their journeys toward womanhood. “Little Women” is celebrated for its enduring portrayal of sisterhood, resilience, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
https://amzn.to/3u45UIp (USA)
Having a Family Read-a-thon or Movie Marathon or Midnight Movie Quiz
Here we unplug, unwind, and delve into captivating stories together during our quality time. It has ranged from a classic tale to a thrilling adventure, or a heartwarming picture book. The joy of reading has made us create lasting memories and cultivate a love of books.
It was easier to get them to read as children under 11 years however to prevent them from stopping reading for pleasure, we switched things up. We linked our books to our family movie marathons and movie quizzes as the children got older. I have tried getting them to read books before a big film adaptation.
Some of our family favorites include:
The “J.R.R. Tolkien 4-Book Boxed Set” includes two seminal works: “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. “The Hobbit” follows Bilbo Baggins on an unexpected adventure filled with dwarves, a dragon, and a magical ring. “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy—comprising “The Fellowship of the Ring,” “The Two Towers,” and “The Return of the King”—chronicles the epic quest to destroy the One Ring and save Middle-earth. Tolkien’s masterpieces are known for their rich world-building, intricate storytelling, and themes of friendship, heroism, and the battle between good and evil. (This one is a keeper – It is one story that the films were made as close to the original scripts).
https://amzn.to/47ziWeJ (USA)
The “Percy Jackson The Ultimate Collection 5 Books Set Epic Heroes” comprises the first five books in Rick Riordan’s popular “Percy Jackson & the Olympians” series. The series follows Percy Jackson, a demigod and the son of Poseidon, as he navigates the challenges of being a half-blood in the modern world. Percy discovers his true identity, battles mythical creatures, and becomes entangled in the conflicts of the Greek gods. With humor, adventure, and themes of friendship and bravery, the series offers an engaging blend of mythology and contemporary storytelling for readers of all ages.
Linking The Stories to Theatre Shows or Movies
I have a love of theatre which I have intentionally fostered in my children. My strategy has been to encourage my children to read books and offer them a reward of either:
- Seeing the story in a theatre show. There is something magical about experiencing a story in theatre that captures the imagination like stepping into a world of enchantment. A world where the boundaries between reality and fiction blur, leaving you spellbound.
Or
- Seeing the story in a movie either in the cinema or on movie night marathons.
Some of our notable stories in theatre include:
“The Tiger Who Came to Tea” by Judith Kerr is a beloved children’s picture book that tells the delightful story of a tiger who unexpectedly visits a little girl named Sophie and her mother. The tiger, displaying impeccable manners, proceeds to consume all the food in the house, including the tea and Sophie’s daddy’s beer. The whimsical tale is filled with charming illustrations and captures the imagination of young readers with its playful narrative and unexpected guest. The book has become a classic for its enchanting simplicity and enduring appeal.
(Check out the The Tiger Who Came to Tea theatre show ). In the theatre, there is an awestruck moment when the Tiger shows up on stage. It never gets old.
https://amzn.to/3TV8lHY (USA)
“Matilda” by Roald Dahl is a classic children’s novel that tells the story of Matilda Wormwood, a precocious and gifted girl born into an unappreciative and neglectful family. Matilda discovers her extraordinary telekinetic abilities and develops a love for reading. Despite facing mistreatment at home and the tyrannical headmistress Miss Trunchbull at school, Matilda stands up for justice and empowers herself through her intelligence and resilience. The novel celebrates the triumph of goodness, intelligence, and the strength found within oneself. Check out Matilda The Musical theatre show
https://amzn.to/4209kIK (USA)
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” by Roald Dahl is a whimsical children’s novel that follows the adventures of Charlie Bucket, a poor boy, as he wins a golden ticket to visit Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory. Inside, Charlie and the other ticket winners witness the fantastical and often peculiar world of Wonka, filled with incredible sweets, peculiar inventions, and moral lessons. The story emphasizes the importance of kindness and good behavior, and it unfolds with humor, imagination, and a sense of wonder that has captivated readers of all ages for decades. We saw the theatre production by Sam Mendes 11 years ago, and it was magical to see Charlie traveling overhead in a glass elevator at the end – simply unforgettable!
https://amzn.to/4aVoinz (USA)
“Julius Caesar” by William Shakespeare is a historical tragedy that revolves around the political conspiracy to assassinate the Roman leader Julius Caesar. The play explores themes of power, betrayal, and the consequences of political ambition. The central character, Brutus, struggles with conflicting loyalties as he grapples with his allegiance to Rome and his friendship with Caesar. The assassination leads to a series of civil wars, and the play delves into the complexities of leadership, honor, and the impact of political decisions on individuals and society. (We saw the theatre production at the Shakespeare’s Globe 2 years ago and it was epic and refreshingly relevant to the times – truly a timeless classic).
https://amzn.to/48wIw5B (USA)
“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee is a classic novel set in the American South during the 1930s. The story, narrated by Scout Finch, revolves around her father, Atticus Finch, a lawyer defending a black man, Tom Robinson, falsely accused of raping a white woman. The novel explores themes of racial injustice, moral growth, and empathy as Scout and her brother, Jem, witness the complexities of prejudice and inequality in their community. Atticus’s unwavering commitment to justice makes a profound impact on his children, and the novel serves as a powerful commentary on social and racial issues.
(Watching the theatre adaptation by Aaron Sorkin, we were particularly impressed with the housekeeper Calpurnia (performed excellently by Pamela Nomvete). Her courage and voice in standing up to Atticus Finch (played by Rafe Spall) was quite stirring, phenomenal, and electrifying.
https://amzn.to/4aVMVjX (USA)
Notable stories in movies include:
The “Hunger Games Books Set 1-4” by Suzanne Collins comprises “The Hunger Games,” “Catching Fire,” “Mockingjay,” and “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes.” The series is set in a dystopian world called Panem, where the Capitol holds an annual event known as the Hunger Games, where children from the districts are forced to compete in a televised fight to the death. The protagonist, Katniss Everdeen, becomes a symbol of rebellion against the oppressive Capitol. The series explores themes of survival, sacrifice, and the consequences of power. The prequel, “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes,” provides insight into the origin of the Hunger Games.
https://amzn.to/47Ed6ZJ (USA)
“The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate is a heartwarming novel narrated by Ivan, a silverback gorilla living in captivity at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall. Ivan befriends an elephant named Ruby, and together, they strive for a better life. The story unfolds with themes of friendship, freedom, and the power of imagination as Ivan uses his artistic talents to express his longing for a more natural and fulfilling existence. Based on a true story, the novel captivates readers with its poignant narrative and gentle exploration of humanity’s impact on the lives of animals.
https://amzn.to/41ZsD4Y (USA)
“The School for Good and Evil” book set by Soman Chainani follows the adventures of two friends, Sophie and Agatha, who unexpectedly find themselves at the School for Good and Evil. In this fantastical world, students are trained to become either fairy-tale heroes or villains. Despite their expectations, Sophie ends up in the School for Evil, while Agatha finds herself in the School for Good. The series explores themes of friendship, identity, and the blurred lines between good and evil as the characters navigate challenges, mysteries, and the complexities of their choices. Throughout the series, the girls question fairy-tale conventions and challenge the destiny imposed upon them, creating a captivating and imaginative narrative.
https://amzn.to/47C5QgL (USA)
Noticing the similarities and differences between the stories and the theatre shows and/or movies has led to insightful and interesting family discussions.
Paying Them A Fee for a Book Review
My children (now teenagers) earn £10 per book review I receive from them. I have had to find what motivates them. They get to read the book and write up the book review for us. You will need to find what motivates your children and incorporate that as an incentive to get them to read. Some insightful reviews that I have received recently from them included:
“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho is a philosophical and inspirational novel that follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, on his journey to discover his personal legend and fulfill his dreams. Santiago embarks on a quest in search of a hidden treasure, encountering spiritual insights and life lessons along the way. The novel explores themes of destiny, the pursuit of one’s dreams, and the transformative power of self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of the mystical and magical elements of the desert, “The Alchemist” encourages readers to reflect on their own life paths and the universal pursuit of happiness and fulfillment.
https://amzn.to/3SnVFby (USA)
“The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas” by John Boyne is a poignant and haunting novel set during World War II. The story revolves around eight-year-old Bruno, the son of a Nazi officer, who befriends a Jewish boy named Shmuel. Unaware of the realities of the concentration camp near his home, Bruno’s innocence and friendship with Shmuel lead to a tragic and heart-wrenching conclusion. The novel explores themes of innocence, friendship, and the devastating impact of prejudice and discrimination, offering a powerful commentary on the human cost of war and hatred.
https://amzn.to/3HjbY2G (USA)
“Lord of the Flies” by William Golding is a classic novel that explores the descent into savagery when a group of boys is stranded on a deserted island. The story follows their attempt to establish order and civilization, which gradually deteriorates into chaos and brutality. As the boys grapple with fear, power struggles, and the primal instincts within them, the novel delves into themes of human nature, morality, and the thin veneer of civilization. “Lord of the Flies” serves as a powerful allegory, examining the darker aspects of human behavior when societal structures are stripped away.
https://amzn.to/420c74G (USA)
“Sense and Sensibility” by Jane Austen is a classic novel that revolves around the lives of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne. Following the death of their father, the sisters navigate the challenges of love, societal expectations, and financial constraints. Elinor, characterized by her practicality and restraint, grapples with unrequited love, while Marianne, driven by passion and sensibility, experiences the highs and lows of romantic entanglements. The novel explores themes of love, social class, and the balance between sense and sensibility in the pursuit of happiness during the Regency era in England.
https://amzn.to/48BhMRf (USA)
My children have even taken to writing reviews of books they read in school. I don’t mind as long as they are reading and learning. It has also further developed their writing skills. This is also preparing them for taking side hustles like freelance writing jobs or proofreading in the future.
Choosing Books Your Reader is Interested in
You can look out for books featuring superheroes, trucks and trains, princes, princesses, or ghosts, or magical kingdoms if your reader is a sucker for those genres. You can find books on any favorite topic with the assistance of librarians, bookstores, and online searches.
As my children have gotten older, I am encouraging them to find the why in the young adult novels which tackle the issues that they as teens grapple with. I also make sure that they are age appropriate. It is important that teens gravitate towards subject matter that is relatable. Some recent ones include:
“Letter to My Daughter” by Maya Angelou is a collection of personal essays and reflections that serve as a heartfelt and insightful guide. In this work, Angelou imparts wisdom, life lessons, and encouragement to her imaginary daughter, covering various aspects of life, love, resilience, and self-discovery. The book is a testament to Angelou’s literary prowess and her ability to share profound insights in a conversational and nurturing manner. The essays offer a blend of autobiographical details and universal truths, creating a touching and inspirational read.
https://amzn.to/3Sk8GTi (USA)
“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen is a classic novel that revolves around the romantic entanglements of Elizabeth Bennet, one of five sisters in a genteel but financially strained family. The story explores themes of love, class, and societal expectations in early 19th-century England. The dynamic between Elizabeth and the proud Mr. Darcy forms the central romantic plot, characterized by misunderstandings, societal critiques, and ultimately, personal growth. Austen’s wit, social commentary, and memorable characters contribute to the enduring appeal of “Pride and Prejudice” as a masterpiece of English literature.
https://amzn.to/422dBvo (USA)
“I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” by Maya Angelou is a poignant and autobiographical narrative that recounts Angelou’s childhood and adolescence. The book explores themes of racism, identity, and resilience as Angelou grapples with trauma and racism while growing up in the American South during the 1930s and 1940s. The title is drawn from a poem by Paul Laurence Dunbar, and it symbolizes the quest for freedom and expression in the face of adversity. The memoir is celebrated for its powerful prose, candid storytelling, and its contribution to African American literature.
https://amzn.to/47CKD6x (USA)
Model Reading
I love reading so much that when I am engrossed in a book, I simply get lost in that world, and go on adventures. To me, reading is a pleasure and not a chore. I love books everywhere from the car, bathroom (actually brochures of theatre shows are placed there), dining table, kitchen table, etc.
I talk about what I am reading and express my enjoyment or disappointment at the end of reading the book. This reinforces reading as a value to my children.
Using Gift Cards for Local Bookstores
I have given my teens gift cards to visit local bookstores where they discover the treasure-hunt fun of looking for a good book. They usually also give me a list of books they want so that we can order from the list for their birthdays or gifts. I use the opportunity to check if the books are age-appropriate. I also gift books for birthdays, Christmas gifts, and anniversaries. Having a list and buying the books during the sale seasons is also an intentional strategy I use.
Additionally, as a bonus: Looking into eBooks
Some friends find digital books particularly interesting for their children. You can download or access many books on an e-reader, tablet, or phone. They find them a wonderful option for travel, car journeys, and reading in bed. My children and I prefer touching and turning the pages of a book so ebooks were not a big hit for us.
The Importance of Cultivating Reading Skills for a Brighter Tomorrow
In conclusion, reading allows us all to dream. It feeds the human desires of the enjoyment of life, curiosity, expression of beauty, and style. Reading intentionally sets us up for a better and brighter tomorrow through its impact on our cognitive development.
You can read my other posts on Intentional Living:
The Power of Values in the Path to Happiness
The Power of Intentionality in Personal Growth
I hope you will check out and read a few of these books with your children. It is never too late to start. I still have a lot to read and will add more later, and there are a lot more that I could have added.
I would appreciate it if you could comment below after reading any of these books and share your experience so that others might benefit from it as well.
Which books have your children loved? Kindly share in the section below.
What strategies have you used in getting your children to read and become lifelong readers?
If you found this piece helpful, do share it with others. Above all, remember to be grateful and pursue joy and happiness in everything.
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I enjoyed reading this. I reckon we would need to apply these awesome tips at home.
Yes. Let me know how you get on with the application.