Fun Read-Aloud Chapter Books

As children get older it’s easy for parents to let daily read-aloud time slide. This summer revive this important practice in your home! Not only does reading aloud to children help to combat the “summer slump”, but it also builds crucial attachments and makes for fond childhood memories. Not sure where to start? Red Apple Reading has compiled a list of 10 great chapter books that all parents should read aloud to their children.

My Father’s Dragon (Ruth Stiles Gannett) – Little ones will enjoy this tale of the brave, little boy, Elmer Elevator, as he goes on an epic quest to save a baby dragon. A nice read for preschool and young, elementary aged students.

The Chronicles of Narnia (C.S. Lewis) – For years, children have enjoyed this classic from beloved author C.S. Lewis. Little ones (and their parents!) will enjoy visiting the magical world of Narnia with its talking animals, witches, and other fanciful creatures. An inspiring set of stories for all ages!

Little House on the Prairie Series (Laura Ingalls Wilder) – Elementary school kids will learn all about pioneer life in the 1800’s as they listen to the captivating true stories of little Laura and her family. Kids as well as parents will love these wholesome adventures about the western frontier!

The Jungle Book (Rudyard Kipling) – Most adults are at least familiar with some of the wild creature stories contained in Rudyard Kipling’s famous work. I confess that I only recently read this gem when I bought it to read aloud to my son. If your child loves animals and a good adventure story, then they will enjoy this book as much as my little guy! Elementary and middle school kids will like these exciting tales!

Junie B. Jones Series (Barbara Park) – These stories about the mischievous Junie B. are sure to tickle your little one’s funny bone! Kids will love listening to all the predicaments this little girl manages to get herself into. Make sure to read these to your early elementary aged child!

Charlotte’s Web (E.B. White) – This classic tale of friendship is a must read-aloud! Charlotte the spider is determined to save her pig friend Wilbur from the fate that befalls most pigs. This lovely book teaches elementary children life lessons they will never forget!

The Tale of Despereaux (Kate DiCamillo) – Readers will meet a cast of misfit characters who have big dreams in this delightful story by Kate DiCamillo. One of these oddballs is a little mouse named Despereaux who happens to be in love with a princess named Pea. Elementary students will enjoy the unfolding of this endearing tale!

A Long Way from Chicago (Richard Peck) – Children will love hearing about the adventures of Joey and his little sister Mary Alice as they visit their larger than life Grandmother each summer. An amusing and heart-warming tale of family for older elementary and middle school students.

Mr.Popper’s Penguins (Richard Atwater) – What happens when you put a well-meaning man and a brood of penguins together? Find out when you read this classic tale to your little ones. Elementary students will love this charming story.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series (Jeff Kinney) Kids will love following Greg Heffley as he navigates the unknown world of middle school. These hysterical books are written in diary form with funny comic style pictures. Older elementary and middle school kids will get a kick out of this series!