Recommended Reading by Class
Hi Lower School families!
Please use the pages below to explore the Recommended Reading lists for the Lower School. Ms. Westman curates these lists to share what's new and noteworthy in the world of children's literature and to help you find books to enjoy throughout the Lower School years. While the printable versions of these lists on our website are updated once yearly, this LibGuide is a living document that Ms. Westman updates throughout the year, whenever she finds a great new title! Please note that while these are books Ms. Westman thinks are particularly wonderful and in line with our goals as a school, they are merely a small collection of the many titles available in the library and the world at large. Families are welcome and encouraged to read widely from and beyond these lists. Though we love these titles, the books we most recommend reading at home are whichever books most excite your reader.
Additional Reading Resources
Public Library Summer Reading Lists
Each of the local public library systems hosts a robust reading program and publishes excellent recommended reading lists. Check out the lists and get in touch with your public library to access ebooks, coordinate pick up, or visit locations available for browsing.
Additional Lists
These lists from NPL, Common Sense Media, and Time provide a wealth of classic and contemporary children's titles.
NYPL's 100 Great Children's Books
Common Sense Media's 50 Books All Kids Should Read
Time's 100 Best Children's Books of All Time
Audiobook Resources
There are many wonderful audiobooks available for young readers. You can download them from your public library or explore paid resources like Audible, Hoopla, or Spotify. I also recommend Epic!, an app with a large collection of books, audiobooks, and read-to-me books, available for a monthly fee. The lists below provide some children’s audiobook recommendations.
BookRiot's 25 Best Children's Audiobooks
Common Sense Media's Great Audiobooks for Kids
Podcast Resources
Podcasts are a wonderful way to enjoy stories together while traveling. Below you’ll find several links to a variety of excellent children’s podcasts. Ms. Westman’s personal favorites include Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest; Story Pirates; The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel; Eleanor Amplified; and What If World. Explore more on the Podcasts page!
Common Sense Media's Kids Podcast Recommendations
Timeout's Best Podcasts for Kids
We Edit Podcasts' Kid Recommendations