We have compiled the 10 Best Read-Alouds for the Whole Family because we all know the benefits of reading to our children. It stimulates their imagination and expands their understanding of the world. It helps them develop language and listening skills while preparing them to understand the written word. Continue reading to your children long after they can read by themselves. This special quality time of adventure and discovery can be shared together as a family.
“Creative Writing has exceeded my expectations and enhanced our study of literature.” ~ Andrea
10 Best Read-Aloud for the Whole Family
- The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien – one of my family’s go-to’s on road trips. (I also stand by my unpopular opinion that the Hobbit is better than the LOTR series.)
- Peter Pan, J.M. Barrie – the Disney movie just isn’t the same. If you haven’t read the book, you should. (Dwane Thomas’ students: Look for Mr. Darling’s Latin jokes – they had me in stitches!)
- Alice in Wonderland, Lewis Carrol – another instance where even though the movie is spectacular, it just can’t compare to the book! Carrol’s bizarre little characters are hilarious and Wonderland is even stranger than you would imagine.
- Winnie the Pooh, A.A. Milne – if you’ve only ever seen the cartoon, you’re missing out. The books are clever, witty, and adorable.
- Christian Heroes: Then & Now, Janet and Geoff Benge – a missionary biography series. I remember my mom reading these aloud to us when we were kids. Some of my favorites were Amy Carmichael, Gladys Aylward, William Carey, George Muller, and Hudson Taylor.
- The Chronicles of Narnia, C.S. Lewis – Lewis’ genius as a theologian and writer pair perfectly as the gospel story unfolds beautifully in this 8 book series.
- The Little Prince, Antoine de St. Exupery – this short story is unexpectedly touching and will move adults and children alike as you follow a little boy’s journey through love and loneliness.
- Anne of Green Gables, L.M. Montgomery – Anne Shirley will make you cry and laugh almost simultaneously in this glorious book about a redheaded orphan who goes to live with a brother and sister on Prince Edward Island. I cannot recommend this novel more for every little girl.
- Robinson Crusoe, Daniel Defoe – shipwrecks, adventure, deserted islands, cannibals, pirates, what more could a little boy ask for in a book?
- Little Women/Little Men, Louisa May Alcott – based on Louisa May Alcott’s own childhood, Little Women is considered a classic for a reason. Little Men is lesser known but equally as charming.
A few tips for Family Reading Time.
If you’re just starting family reading time you might consider a few of these helpful tips:
1.Schedule the time! If you need to set the same time every day or night, be sure everyone is available. Make this a habit. It’s no fun trying to catch someone up who missed three chapters. Be together.
2. Avoid distractions. Turn off phones, notifications, etc. Don’t plan family reading time during the Super Bowl or The Masters when some family members might want to rush a chapter.
3. Get comfortable. Pillows, blankets, jammies, and snacks are all welcome as long as everyone is engaged. Of course, if these become distractions remove them.
4. Watch the movie! We know, we know. 99% of the time the book is always better than the movie. After reading the book consider watching the movie together. This leads to great discussions as well as help for someone who might have gotten lost in a chapter or two.
The Compass Classroom Reading Chart
Print our helpful Reading Chart to keep track of the books you’ve read! Allow your children to give each book a “star rating”. Or print page 2 to keep track of all the books you want to read. We hope you find this Reading Chart helpful.
