Let’s face it… Learning to read is hard work! And early reading books can be, frankly, BORING! Reading requires practice in decoding symbols, understanding left-to-right page orientation, memorization, interpreting graphic clues, combining sounds and focusing your attention for long periods of time, to the point of losing all interest in the story, if there is a story. Early readers are designed to teach and the vocabulary is necessarily limited, so an engrossing story is difficult to come by. However, we all know that reading can be fun and that the key to enjoying the process is finding books that are creative, humorous and of particular interest to the reader. Here are a few noteworthy early readers that will entice even the most reluctant bibliophiles into finding some joy in their initiation to the literate world:
A Birthday for Bear, Bonny Becker
Bear is not one for socializing. He doesn’t even want a birthday party, but his tenacious friend, Mouse, has other plans. This is a worthy sequel to the popular picture book, A Visitor for Bear.
Cat the Cat, Who Is That? , Mo Willems
The creator of the beloved Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! has taken on early reading with gusto! This introduction to Willems’ new series presents the exploits of Cat the Cat and her friends Duck the Duck, Mouse the Mouse, and a mysterious visitor from another planet.
Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa, Erica Silverman
Horse-loving buckaroos will find the adventures of Cowgirl Kate and her trusty steed, Cocoa, irresistible!
Elephants Cannot Dance! , Mo Willems
Mo Willems’ Elephant and Piggie books are the perfect combination of surprise and laughter, conveyed through a few, choice words per page and illustrations that say it all.
Good Night, Good Knight, Shelley Moore Thomas
In a dense forest in a faraway kingdom, three wide-eyed baby dragons are lonely–but not for long. A Good Knight hears their cries and comes to their rescue in the first book of this charming series.
Hi! Fly Guy!, Tedd Arnold
Buzz can’t decide if Fly Guy is more of a pest or a pet, but their silly antics and unusual friendship will keep kids wanting more. Luckily, there are further adventures to explore in this popular series.
Houndsley and Catina, James Howe
This gentle series is all about the special friendship between two very different characters, a messy dog and a meticulous cat, who appreciate each other’s strengths.
Of course, you might want to share some of your own childhood favorites with the new readers in your life. These series continue to be tried-and-true choices:
Amelia Bedelia, Peggy Parish
Quirky Amelia Bedelia, a loveable household helper, is always thinking outside the box. Her mixed-up understanding of her duties always results in fun and laughter.
Commander Toad, Jane Yolen
Intergalactic adventure, humor, and a resilient toad make for a winning combination that will appeal to fledgling readers.
Frog and Toad, Arnold Lobel
Frog and Toad are the children’s version of The Odd Couple. Their endearing friendship never gets old.
Henry and Mudge, Cynthia Rylant
The classic boy-and-his-dog relationship is wonderfully depicted throughout the many, many volumes of this timeless series.
Little Bear, Else Holmelund Minarick
Who can resist the sweet, cozy world of the Little Bear series? Little Bear’s curiosity and his mother’s endless patience resonate with readers, young and old.
Nate the Great, Marjorie Weinman Sharmat
Nate the Great, boy detective extraordinaire, is the perfect read for burgeoning sleuths and mystery buffs.
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