We read aloud a lot with our kids (girls aged 12 & 14), as part of their educations, and trying to build a love of reading. We are currently between books— just finished Number the Stars by Lois Lowry. We read a lot of Newberry literature and classics— frankly stuff that my husband and I remember lovingly from our childhoods. We were discussing our next book, and I suggested Oliver Twist, Diary of Anne Frank, Wrinkle in Time, or a Richard Peck historical fiction book that I’m not remembering. My older daughter said she wants to read something “from this century,” which is fair. I want to try to honor that request, and help both of them find more literature they really enjoy and remember fondly.
Looking for high quality literature— though something super enjoyable but lighter is good too! Maybe extra bonus points if there is a holiday theme?
None of us are really into magical realism, dragons, fantasy, that kind of thing. We tend to enjoy books about real humans, but are open to exploring new genres. Their reading comprehension is excellent and we’ve read lots of literature intended for adults, but obviously don’t want super “adult” themes like sex, graphic violence, etc. And we could all probably use some lit that is uplifting!
Thanks!
by vaguename85
3 Comments
Following because I read to my 11 year old every night and we’ve struggled more with books lately. I also tend to do older stuff like The Secret Garden and Little Women. I recently read her Fahrenheit 451. But she’s also wanting to change it up a bit. I did read her Bridge to Terabithia recently. I’m also looking for more mature stuff without a lot of “adult” content. It’s a difficult transitional reading level stage.
We read mostly fantasy in my family, but I do have a few slice-of-life books to recommend from this century. 🤣
Hello, Universe and other books by Erin Entrada Kelly
Strange Birds: A Field Guide to Ruffling Feathers by Celia C. Pérez
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser
Anything by Ruta Sepetys. She writes YA but the books are enjoyable for adults too. She writes historical fiction but they are not boring at all. I’m always excited when she releases a new book.