A couple of months ago, as summer was approaching, I discussed the importance of reading to your children, even as they grow older. The response was heartwarming and engaging, with many people sharing their experiences and favorite family books. I decided to take a break from my usual reading material and reflect on these conversations. If you’re interested in hearing more, keep reading. If not, that’s okay too – I’ll be back next week.
One common question that came up was what makes a good family read. Many parents shared stories of books that didn’t quite hit the mark or beloved tales that didn’t resonate as much when revisited. This struck a chord with me personally.
Reflecting on my own experiences, I remembered books that I cherished as a child but didn’t captivate my own children when we read them together. Sometimes, the magic of a story can fade over time, whether due to changing tastes or evolving perspectives. It’s a reminder that not every book will be a hit with every reader.
We’ve had our fair share of struggles with certain books, like verbose classics that felt more like a lecture than an adventure. On the other hand, there are timeless tales like Winnie the Pooh that enchanted our boys in their younger years but no longer hold their interest. It’s all part of the journey of discovering what resonates with your family.
In pondering what makes a family read successful, I’ve come up with four guidelines that have worked well for us. Firstly, I appreciate books that spark questions and discussions, requiring my input as a reader to enhance the experience. Secondly, while a bit of embellishment in the writing can be engaging, a clear plot and compelling characters are essential. Thirdly, a touch of mystery or unconventional elements can keep everyone intrigued and talking about the story. Lastly, having a personal connection to the book adds depth to the shared reading experience.
Many readers have asked for recommendations beyond the usual classics like Narnia or Harry Potter. I’m happy to share five older titles that have brought joy to our family. These stories may not be as well-known today, but they offer unique and enriching narratives.
“The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar” by Roald Dahl is a mystical tale filled with intrigue and adventure that sparked lively discussions with my children. “The Westing Game” by Ellen Raskin is a clever mystery that benefits from adult guidance to unravel its complexities. “The Great Brain” series, set in 1890s Utah, offers relatable tales of sibling rivalry and frontier life. “Around the World in Eighty Days” by Jules Verne takes readers on a thrilling journey of friendship and adventure. Lastly, “Shoeless Joe” by W. P. Kinsella weaves a captivating story of baseball, family, and yearning that surprised us all.
If you have thoughts, reflections, or other book recommendations to share, I’d love to hear from you. The joy of discovering new stories and connecting through shared reading experiences is a conversation that never gets old.
