Chapter Books We Read Aloud And My Kids Enjoyed

(by Mom, with help from Grace, age 11, and Emily, age 8)
"Please, just one more chapter!" Those words never fail to bring a smile to my face. I always have fun hiding the book so no one reads ahead. Here are some chapter books that I've loved reading to my children over the years.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Roald Dahl is a master of wacky plots and lovable characters. My 11-year-old, 8-year-old and 5-year-old were all begging for more.

Emily (8): Great book!









The Wheel on the School

This book doesn't look like it's going to have a riveting plot, so it sat on our shelf for a while. Boy, was I wrong. It's a fascinating story about the Dutch village of Shora coming together to bring back the storks. All of my children loved it, and just recently, one asked if we could read it again.

Emily (8): It was me!








The Whipping Boy

This prompted some great discussion in our family. If you want a great plot and some good talks about discipline, unlikely friendships and unexpected heroes, this is your book.

Grace (11): This was really one of my favorite books Mom read out to me.








The Winged Watchman

A real page-turner set in occupied Holland in World War II. I couldn't help myself. I read ahead. (Sorry, kids!)

Grace (11): Don't worry, Mom, we knew you were reading ahead and we forgive you! I remember this book well: the helplessness, the determination, the risks that people took to get their independence back!








The Little Riders

Another book set in Nazi-occupied Holland. It prompted thoughtful discussion on loving our enemies and real courage.

Note from Emily (8): I loved it because it shows courage, kindness, and love.

Asterix Comic Books: Fun Gift Ideas From Eleven-Year-Old Grace

(by Grace, age 11)
Asterix Comics are very, very funny--the most comical books I've ever read. These best-sellers are seriously something that the whole family can enjoy.

How Obelix Fell Into the Magic Potion: When He Was a Little Boy


Grace: The idea of a young Obelix is quite funny, and when I read it the idea became reality in the most comical way. READ IT, 'cause it really is the best.










Asterix and the Actress

Grace:  While Asterix and Obelix are celebrating their joint birthday party in the Gaulish village, strange things are happening. Why, for instance, are the Roman soldiers fighting each other? Find out in Asterix and the Actress.









Asterix in Spain


Grace: Join Asterix as he strives to reunite a little Spanish boy with his parents. Will Asterix be able to break out of prison without his magic potion?










Asterix in Britain


Grace: Asterix's adventure in Britain is so enormously funny that I shouldn't wonder if it is the most comical of the whole Asterix comic book series.










Asterix and Cleopatra

Grace: Caesar would tip his hat, er, helmet . . . at this book about Cleopatra. And as for Cleopatra, well, she would recommend it even though the book comments quite loudly about her nose.









Asterix in Switzerland

Grace: As Asterix seeks the antidote for a dire sickness, Romans are chasing him frantically. Who will reach the precious flower (the antidote) first?










I think they would all make good gifts, because whenever I get an Asterix book for a gift, I go through the roof!