These book lists were assembled over many years by dozens of mothers and children who love to read. As with all new books, parents should check the book first to assure that it is consistent with the family's criteria for reading. The lists are divided by:
___ Picture Books
___ Good Books for Beginning Readers
___ Chapter Books and Anthologies
___ More Advanced Chapter Books and Anthologies
___ Junior High to High School Chapter Books and Anthologies
___ High School to College Chapter Books and Anthologies
The best way to develop a child who loves to read is to read, read, read to them. The picture books listed are excellent quality and will hold a young child's interest. Later, they will be the kinds of books that new readers will want to read. A separate section of Good Books for Beginners is featured as an addition to the picture books.
Each child is different and has different tastes. The division of books into Chapter Books and More Advanced Chapter Books should not limit the range of a child. There are adults who still enjoy the simplest chapter books (like Beatrix Potter collections!), so do not discount books from the earlier lists for older students.
The last two lists contain challenging material that will ably prepare a bright student for college and beyond.
The lists may be printed for library use. For states that require a record of books read by each student, initials of students can be placed next to the books they have read.
Hunt, Gladys: Honey for a Child's Heart
Lipson, Eden Ross: New York Times Parent's Guide to the Best Books for Children
Lopez, Diane: Teaching Children
Trelease, Jim: Read Aloud Handbook
Wilson, Elizabeth: Books Children Love
Click here for a Blank Book Report Form
Click here for a Record of Books Read Form
Click here for a Student Library Form