Best Chapter Books to Read Aloud
My kids love listening to me read, so I am always on the hunt for great chapter books to read aloud. Whether I am reading poems, picture books, or chapter books, reading is the one thing I can do that will keep my kids captivated.
Reading to your children at night great way to unwind. 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 important to continue to read to your children as well.
Read aloud books help improve your child’s independent reading as well as their language comprehension as well! This is one of the posts we have in our reading readiness program and the importance of reading. As a Speech and Language Pathologist, I have spent my life studying language development and reading is a critical component.
*Read Aloud Books Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Chapter Books to Read Aloud to Younger Readers
Mercy Watson to the Rescue
Author: Kate DiCamillo
Illustrator: Chris Van Dusen
Year: 2005
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 4 – 8
More info: Mercy Watson #1
Plot
My youngest son’s favorite early reader series revolved around a pig named Mercy Watson. I have every book about this charming pig being raised as a child in the Watson home. There is also a spin-off series about her neighbors on Deckawoo Drive.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love Kate DiCamillo and the wonderful messages in her books but I cannot overlook the wonderful drawings of Chris Van Dusen too! This is my favorite early reader series to gift – every kid loves Mercy.
Find this book in: Best Books for 5-year-olds / Bedtime Stories / Early Reader Books / Best Chapter Books to Read Aloud
The Chocolate Touch
Author: Patrick Skene Catling
Year: 1952
Genre: Middle Grade Sci-fi
Age: 6 – 9
More info: John Midas #1
Plot
I adore this story about a little boy who gets the magical power to turn everything he touches into chocolate. If you have not read it, you have to know it’s absolutely hilarious.
Why Kirsten loves it
This twist on the Midas Touch is adorable and the thought of turning parents into chocolate had my kids rolling with laughter.
Find this book in: Candy Books / Read Aloud Books / Audiobooks for Kids / Best Books for 9-year-olds / Bedtime Stories
Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
We Love Kate DiCamillo. She is a modern storyteller who appeals to children intelligently and thoughtfully.
I feel like I could choose every single one of her books to put on this list so take your pick. This Newberry Award-winning book is delightful.
Why We Love This Book: We love the message in this wonderful book that is a story of love, bravery, friendship, wishes, and dreams.
Find this book in Best Books for a 6-year-old / The Best Family Audiobooks / Read Aloud Books
Teddy & Co. by Cynthia Voight
Think Winnie the Pooh meets Toy Story in this sweet story about a group of toys. We love this read aloud book because of its wonderful message of sharing and kindness and we think you will love reading this book with your child.
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 finds a Pen pal, Penguin, on the other side of the world. How old school and sweet. This book is engaging and cute and it is one of the read aloud books we read over and over again
Best Chapter Books to Read Aloud to Older Elementary School
Bunnicula: A Rabbit Tale of Mystery
Author: Deborah and James Howe
Illustrator: Alan Daniel
Year: 1979
Genre: Middle Grade Mystery
Age: 7 – 10
More info: Bunnicula #1
Plot
Chester, a cat, and Harold, a dog, live in perfect harmony with their family until a new pet is brought onto the scene. When the family brings home a new bunny named Bunnicula, Chester is convinced he is Dracula’s rabbit. Weird things start to happen and they are convinced that Bunnicula is a vampire rabbit! Hijinks ensue.
Why Kirsten loves it
It’s the first in a series and the second one is even funnier. The whole series is part mystery, part comedy and fully entertaining.
Find this book in: Chapter Books to Read Aloud / Halloween Chapter Books / Children’s Books About Bunnies / Best Books for 8-year-olds
The Wayside School Collection
Author: Louis Sacher
Year: 1998
Genre:Middle Grade Short Stories
More info: Book 1 of 4 of Wayside School
Age Range: 8+
Plot
Louis Sachar’s hysterical collection of stories about the students of Wayside School is a true must-read for students and a perfect read-aloud book.
The wacky tales and backward ways of the students and teachers at Wayside will have your child in a fit of giggles. Each chapter is about a different student in the school, so they can be read as individual short stories, making them perfect for bedtime reading.
This is the first in a collection of stories about Wayside School. While I recommend you start with this one, each book in the series is just as funny!
Why Kirsten loves it
Not all books from my childhood stand the test of time, but I enjoyed this story even more when I read it to my children. Hearing them giggle through the stories had me smiling. It certainly made for an entertaining bedtime tale.
Find this book in: Short Stories / Best Books for 10-Year-Olds / Family Audiobooks / School Books
Chapter Books to Read Aloud to Older Kids
Wonder
Author: R.J. Palacio
Year: 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Age: 9 – 12
More info: Wonder #1, New York Times Bestseller
Plot
August Pullman is a boy with an extraordinary facial difference. He has been homeschooled his entire life and is starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep. This book for 11-year-olds is amazing and has a lesson about love and acceptance that everyone needs to read.
Trigger Warnings
Bullying
Why Jackie loves it
This is a must-read story for middle schoolers. It is an amazing book about embracing differences, kindness, and being yourself. However, it would also be a wonderful read-aloud book for a younger audience.
Find this book in: Realistic Fiction Books / Best Books for 11-year-olds / Middle Grade Books for Tweens / Books that Will Make You Cry / Chapter Books to Read Aloud / Family Audiobooks / School Books
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street
Author: Karina Yan Glaser
Year: 2018
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Age: 7 – 12
More info: Vanderbeekers #1
Plot
This charming story is about a bi-racial family in Harlem with 5 kids who are about to lose their home before Christmas. Why? Because their reclusive landlord won’t renew their lease.
My entire family enjoyed this delightful tale of the siblings trying to win their landlord over so they don’t have to leave home. It was full of all the antics you would expect of a big family.
Why Kirsten loves it
I can’t begin to tell you how connected my family has grown to the Vanderbeekers over the course of the series. They are sweet, funny, good-natured, mischievous children – each with a personality all their own. Their antics make for incredible stories, but the heart and love at the center of the family keep me reaching for these books. This is hands down one of my favorite series for middle grade readers and the one I recommend the most often.
Why Jackie loves it
I love that the Vanderbeekers’ story normalizes city living and a bi-racial family – something that’s hard to find in many children’s book series. You will fall in love with this cast of characters and as the series progresses you’ll come to regard them as family.
Find this book in: Best Books for a 10-Year-Old / Best Family Audiobooks For Road Trips / Read Aloud Books / Realistic Fiction Books / Christmas Chapter Books / Best Middle Grade Fiction
The Penderwicks
Author: Jeanne Birdsall
Year: 2005
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Age: 9 – 12
More info: Penderwicks #1
Plot
An imperfect family, the Penderwick family (consisting of the father, 4 daughters, and their dog) go spend their three-week summer vacation at a cottage they rented. Mrs. Tifton, a grumpy, snooty woman, and her son Jeffry own the cottage that is part of the Arundel estate.
Why Jackie loves it
The first in a realistic fiction series of 5 books about sisters, this wonderful book is perfect to read aloud at night or listen to on audio for a family road trip. All of my children loved this entire series! It’s one of my favorites to gift to new parents.
Find this book in: Chapters Books to Read Aloud / Best Books for 9-year-olds / Books About Sisters / Best Realistic Fiction Books / Best Middle Grade Fiction
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Author: J. K Rowling
Year: 1998
Genre: Middle-Grade fantasy
More info: Harry Potter #1 of 7
Age Range: 8+ (note that some of the later books in the series may not be appropriate until a bit older)
Plot
I was in university when this book was published and the first four were sitting on my younger brother’s bookshelf before I picked it up to see what the fuss was about. I read all four books in as many days and was married with a child before the final book was published.
This story introduces us to Harry, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger; our fearless trio. We also meet the other favorite beloved and detested characters that make the Harry Potter book series so special. After all, what would Hogwarts be without Hagrid, Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall, Professor Snape, and Draco Malfoy?
Trigger Warnings
Parental death
Why Jackie loves it
I firmly believe that JK Rowling changed children’s literature more profoundly than any other author. I realize that this is a very strong statement. But, until her, there have never been books that have had such an impact on the world of reading. The books are so brilliantly laid out with easter eggs in book one that are essential for the entire plot. I believe this is one of the best fantasy series ever written.
Why Kirsten loves it
In my opinion, this is the best children’s fantasy series ever written. It features strong lessons on morality, inventive plotlines, and hidden threads woven throughout the entire series. Jim Dale’s audiobook narration of this book is award-winning. He voices over 200 characters, each with distinct accents and my kids have listened to the entire series multiple times.
Find this book in: Halloween Chapter Books / Audiobooks for Kids / Harry Potter Books in Order / Books like Percy Jackson / Fantasy Books for Tweens / Magic School Books / Jackie’s Favorite Books / Kirsten’s Favorite Books / Books to Read Aloud
Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library
Author: Chris Grabenstein
Year: 2015
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Age: 9 – 11
More info: Mr. Lemoncello’s Library #1,
Plot
Mr. Lemoncello’s library is one of a kind. It’s full of holograms, logic puzzles, and hidden games. To officially open the new library, a few lucky kids get to spend the night inside as they try to win Mr. Lemoncello’s game and be the first team to escape.
Why Kirsten loves it
If you are looking for great bedtime stories for kids, this series will hit the mark. It will get your kids engaged with one-of-a-kid puzzles and delightful twists and turns.
Find this book in: Audiobooks for Kids / Netflix Book Adaptations / Middle Grade Mysteries / Books for 10-year-olds / Read Aloud Books / Best Puzzle Books
Holes
Author: Louis Sachar
Year: 1998
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Age: 9 – 12
More info: National Book Award Winner, Newbery Medal Winner, Holes #1
Plot
When a boy under a curse is sent to a detention camp he’s taught to behave by digging holes all day, every day. It doesn’t take long for him to realize he’s digging for a reason – but what are the camp wardens looking to find?
Why Jackie loves it
Holes should be on every child’s list. It’s clever and will captivate the attention of any child. Read it and then watch the movie starring Shia LeBeouf.
Find this book in: Books About Camp / Best Books for 11-year-olds / Mystery Books for Tweens / Bedtime Stories for Kids / Ultimate List of Middle Grade Books / Newbery Award Winners
Read Aloud Children’s Books: Series
Dinosaurs Before Dark: Magic Tree House #1 by Mary Pope Osbourne
The #1 bestselling chapter book series of all time celebrates 25 years with new covers and a new, easy-to-use numbering system!
Where did the tree house come from?
Before Jack and Annie can find out, the mysterious tree house whisks them to the prehistoric past. Now they have to figure out how to get home. Can they do it before dark…or will they become a dinosaur’s dinner? Did you know that there’s a Magic Tree House book for every kid?
Why We Love These Books: We love that there are so many adventures to choose from. We know your picky reader can find a few that appeal to their likes!
Find This Book in 40+ Early Reader Books / Read Aloud
Rise of the Earth Dragon: A Branches Book (Dragon Master Series #1) by Tracey West
We love this series and love the Branches books series as the perfect books to transition from reading together to reading independently.
My children read this series long after they were “age-appropriate” because the stories and pictures are great.
There are female dragon master characters that make this series appealing to boys and girls alike.
Tuesdays at the Castle
Author: Jessica Day George
Year: 2011
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Age: 8 – 11
More info: Tuesdays at the Castle #1
Plot
Princess Celie lives in an ever-changing castle that adds new rooms every Tuesday. She eagerly maps out each new addition that might just end up saving her family when danger heads to their home. This is one of the read-aloud books for kids that I read to my kids. We both loved it and it was a wonderful pick from bedtime stories for kids.
Why Kirsten loves it
If the changing staircases, room of requirement, and secrets passages are your child’s favorite parts about Hogwarts, this is the series for them!
Find this book in: Books like KOTLC / Books like Harry Potter for Kids / Fantasy Books for Tweens / Best Books for 9-year-olds
The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell
Author: Chris Colfer
Year: 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Age: 8 – 11
More info: Land of Stories #1
Plot
Alex and Connor’s grandmother gives them the family book of fairy tales. Before they understand what is happening, they find themselves transported into the book. They set off on an adventure to get back home.
Why Kirsten loves it
While this story is about the land of fairy tales, think Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella, it has the element of magic and wonder that KOTLC fans will love. I loved reading this aloud to my boys when they were little.
Find this book in: Bedtime Stories / Fantasy Books for Tweens / Books like Keeper of the Lost Cities
Read Aloud Books: Classics
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Author: Roald Dahl
Illustrator: Quentin Blake
Year: 1964
Genre: Middle Grade Classic
Age: 6 – 9
More info: Charlie Bucket #1
Plot
Charlie is thrilled when he gets a golden ticket to see inside Willy Wonka’s amazing chocolate factory, but this is no ordinary candy factory. The machines and recipes behind the walls of the factory are what dreams are made of. Step into the wonderful world of Willy Wonka and you’ll never be the same again.
Trigger Warnings
Fatphobia
Why Kirsten loves it
This story is quite the classic and it revolves around all things candy! With its creeptastic vibes, it’s also wonderful for Halloween. I’ve loved this story for a long time, but I don’t love the author. Please be advised that he is a known for incredibly problematic comments about women, Jews, and minority groups.
Find this book in: Best Classic Books for Kids / Best Books for an 8-Year-Old / Read Aloud Children’s Books / Kids Food Books / Books about Candy
Charlotte’s Web
Author: E.B. White
Illustrator: Garth Williams
Year: 1952
Genre: Children’s Classic
Age: 5-8
More info: Newbery Winner
Plot
This is such a wonderful story of unconditional love and friendship. When Fern saves the life of Wilbur, the runt of the pig litter, she promises to take care of him. As Wilbur grows, he befriends Charlotte, a spider, who ultimately saves his life a second time.
Why Jackie loves it
This is such a heartwarming classic book for kids. We dare you to read it without crying.
Find this book in: Best Classic Books for Kids / Read Aloud Children’s Books / The Best Family Audiobooks / Animal Books for Kids / Newbery Award Winners / Best Books for 7-year-olds
Mr. Popper’s Penguins
Author: Richard and Florence Atwater
Illustrator: Robert Lawson
Year: 1938
Genre: Classic Children’s Fiction
Age: 6 – 9
More info: Newbery Honor Winner
Plot
This Newberry Honor book is a classic. Originally published in 1938, it tells the story of a painter who finds himself in a house full of penguins.
Why Jackie loves it
This hilarious tale is sure to keep the kids entertained. It is funny and sweet and has withheld the test of time.
Find this book in: Best Classic Books for Kids / Read Aloud Children’s Books / Children’s Books About Winter / Newbery Award Winners / Best Books for 8-year-olds
Ramona Quimby, Age 8
Author: Beverly Cleary
Year: 1981
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 4 – 8
More info: Newbery Honor Winner
Plot
Ramona is another adorable character who is perfectly imperfect. She is sweet and lovable and gets into her share of trouble. Whether reading to boys or girls, every child can relate to Ramona.
Why Kirsten loves it
When it comes to first chapter books Ramona can’t be beaten! Cleary’s classic has stood the test of time.
Find this book in: Realistic Fiction / Books for 6-year-olds / Kids Audiobooks / Newbery Award Winners / Back to School Books
My Father’s Dragon
Author: Ruth Stiles Gannett
Illustrator: Ruth Chrisman Gannet
Year: 1948
Genre: Classic Early Reader
Age: 4 – 7
More info: My Father’s Dragon #1, Newbery Honor Book
Plot
This is the story of Elmer, a runaway who headed to Wild Island to rescue a baby dragon, being taken advantage of by the lazy animals of the island. 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.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love this book. It was my kid’s first fantasy chapter book. This is a wonderful book with a wonderful message as well as a perfect read-aloud bedtime story.
Find this book in: Classic Books for Kids / Best Books for 5-year-olds / Best Books to Read Aloud
Stuart Little
Author: E. B. White
Illustrator: Garth Williams
Year: 1945
Genre: Classic Chapter Book
Age: 5 – 9
Plot
Adventure- 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.
Why Jackie loves it
All my kids love this great story. Stuart has amazing adventures and displays great bravery in this classic book.
Find this book in: Read Aloud Children’s Books / Best Classic Books for Kids / Animal Book for Kids / Best Books for 8-year-olds
Paddington by Michael Bond
Even before he became a motion picture star, this little bear won my heart. With his hat, duffle coat, and suitcase, he was my favorite growing up.
My kids love him just as much with his crazy antics. He is sweet, lovable, and hilarious. The perfect combination!
I recently found out that the story of Paddington was actually a story written about the children in WWII who were sent away from their parents to keep them safe. That aspect adds to a story that I already loved.
The Littles
Author: John Peterson
Year: 1967
Genre: Historical Fiction
Age: 6 – 9
More info: The Littles #1
Plot
A family of people with tails (the littles) live in the Bigg family house and always make sure that the house is well taken care of. When the family goes away for the summer and a new family moves in, trouble starts.
Why Jackie loves it
I always wished that the Littles were real and could help take care of my home. This book is a timeless classic that I loved as a child!
Find this book in: Best Books for 9-year-olds
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Are Read Aloud Books So Important?
There are so many reasons we should read aloud to kids while they are learning how to read and even after they are successful independent readers
1. It promotes reading
2. it fosters a love of reading
3. It helps improve vocabulary (children may skip over words they don’t know when reading independently)
4. Opens the doors for conversations about the text and allows you to develop reading comprehension skills
5. Reading celebrates both the illustrated and written word. Reading together may allow your child to read books they would not normally read
Epilogue
What are your favorite read-aloud books?
The Best Family Audiobooks For Road Trips and Home Listening
Love these read aloud books? We have more amazing books in our list of audiobooks for the whole family
