My kids love to listen to me read so I am always on the hunt for great read aloud books. Whether I am reading poems, pictures books or chapter books, reading is the one thing I can do that will keep my kids captivated. It is a great way to unwind at night. You will often find all of us sitting in one bed reading “just one more chapter”.
For little kids especially, their listening comprehension is much better than what they will be able to read independently. So, even if you practice reading with your kids every night, it is also so important to continue to read to your children as well. They will thank you for it! We have a list of 17 great first chapter books to read aloud to your children.
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Modern Tales
The Chocolate Touch by Patrick Skene Catling
I adore this story about a little boy who gets the magical power to turn everything he touches into chocolate. This twist on the Midas Touch is adorable and the thought of turning parents into chocolate had my kids rolling with laughter.
Teddy & Co by Cynthia VoightThink Winnie the Pooh meets Toy Story in this sweet story about a group of toys. This is the perfect book for a first read aloud with its wonderful message and sharing and kindness.
Yours Sincerely, Giraffe by Megumi Iwasa
This book is so cute. I love it. Giraffe is looking for a friend and decides to write a letter. He find a Pen palPennguin on the other side of the world. How old school and sweet. This book is really engaging and cute!
Mercy Watson to the Rescue by Kate DiCamillo
I love Kate DiCamillo and these books are no exception. They are so cute and funny and the pictures (by my favorite Chris Van Dusen) are amazing. My kids cracked up while reading about this sweet pig. This read aloud book is one that parents will love almost as much as their kids.
Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
Yes, we have two books by Kate DiCamillo. She is a modern storyteller that appeals to children in an intelligent and thoughtful way. I feel like I could have chosen every single one of her books to put on this list so take your pick. This Newberry Award-winning book is delightful.
Rise of the Earth Dragon: A Branches book (Dragon Master Series) by Tracey West
We have read all of these. Even though my son is a little old for them now, I will definitely be reading these to my daughter. There are female dragon master characters that make this series appealing to boys and girls alike.
Chester, a cat, and Harold, a dog, live in perfect harmony with their family until a new pet is brought on the scene. When the family brings home a new bunny named Bunnicula, Chester is convinced he is Dracula’s rabbit. Hijinks ensue. It’s the first in a series and the second one is even funnier than the first. I grab this read aloud book every Halloween too!
Magic Tree House by Mary Pope Osborne
Whether your kids love dragons or pandas, soccer or sharks, these stories have a plot line for every child. They are fun, quick and enjoyable. When Jack and Annie discover a tree house filled with books, they can never guess that they will be transported into different worlds. These books are great first read alouds.
Magic #1: Ruby the Red Fairy by Daisy Meadows
This series is sweet and enjoyable. I know that it may seem that this series might only be appealing to girls but, my son brought these home from the school library in Kindergarten so that I could read them to him.
Classics
Paddington by Michael BondEven before he became a motion picture star, this little bear won my heart. With his hat, duffle coat and suitcase, he was definitely my favorite growing up. My kids love him just as much with his crazy antics. He is sweet, lovable and hilarious. The perfect combination!
Ramona Quimby Age 8 by Beverly Cleary
Ramona is another adorable character who is perfectly imperfect. She is sweet and lovable and gets into her share of trouble. Whether you are reading to boys or girls, every child can relate to Ramona.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
I grew up reading Charlie and the Chocolate factory. In fact, I still have the copy I received from my friend Jeff that includes the inscription from his mother “Happy 6th birthday Jackie, Love Jeff”. It also has the inscription from him: “poo poo poo, I do not love you Jackie Robins”. I read this copy to my kids.
My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Styles Barnett
I love this book at my kids first fantasty chapter book. It is such a great story and continues with two more books after. Elmer and the Dragon and The Dragons of Blueland complete this trilogy.
This is such a wonderful story of unconditional love and friendship. When Fern saves the life of Wilbur, the runt of the pig litter, Charlotte befriends him and ultimately saves his life a second time. This is such a heartwarming story. I try to read it without crying.
Mr. Popper’s Penguins by Richad Atwater
This Newberry Honor book is a classic. Originally published in 1938, it tells the story of a painter who find himself with a house full of penguins. This hilarious tale is sure to keep the kids entertained.
Stuart Little by E.B. WhiteAdventure- Check. Animals- Check. Animals who can talk and wear clothes- Check check. This is a tale that everyone loves about a boy who also happens to be a mouse. All my kids love this great story.
The Littles by John PetersonI always wished that the Littles were real. A family of people with tails (the littles) live in the Bigg family house and always make sure that the house is well take care of. When the family goes away for the summer and a new family moves in, trouble starts. This book is a timeless classic.
