5 Awesome Books to Read Together
as a Family
By Mikkie Mills
Congratulations! You finally found time to read together as a family. Reading together as a family can be a richly rewarding experience. For example, your children will quickly become better readers, and your children's comprehension skills will increase. Also, you'll be able to share common interests as a family. If you are looking for five great books to read as a family, check out the suggestions below.
The Bible
The Bible is an obvious choice for any family reading event. Reading the Bible can strengthen religious belief in your home. It can also connect your children with some of the oldest written words in the world. Also, even if your family isn't terribly religious, reading the Bible can provide you and your family with an understanding of some of the greatest stories ever told. Finally, don't forget that that there are study aides your family can use when reading the Bible. For example, the NIV (New International Version) application commentary is a great resource for families looking for additional biblical information.
The Hobbit
The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien remains one of the touchstones of literature. The plot is exciting and accessible enough for even the youngest readers. The themes of the book can also resonate extremely well with adults. Additionally, The Hobbit acts as a gateway to the other fantasy works of Tolkien. Reading The Hobbit will be a delight for your and your family, and it will also inspire your children to pick up and read additional fantasy books. Pick up one of the many inexpensive copies of this wonderful book at a bookstore near you!
Holes
Louis Sachar's book Holes is a adventurous read for the whole family. The book follows the experiences of a slightly misguided boy sent to a disciplinary camp. At the camp, he is instructed to dig exactly one hole each day. After forming friendships, the boys at the camp soon discover not all is as it seems. Holes is a terrific adventure and mystery story. You can even watch the film version afterwards!
Heaven is for Real
Heaven is for Real is a 2010 book that details the near-death experience of a three-year-old boy named Colton. Selling millions of copies around the world, many people have found this book to be convincing evidence of an afterlife. If someone your family knows has recently passed away, this would be an excellent book to read as a family to gain a better understanding of life and death. Also, even if your children have not yet been struck with the loss of a loved one, reading this book together can fortify them against that inevitable time. The book also reads quickly and easily. Your family can easily read and discuss it in a single month.
A Child's Garden of Verses
A Child's Garden of Verses is a collection of poems by Robert Louis Stevenson, the author who also wrote Treasure Island. Though an older book, the poems resonate well with children today. The book can provide your children with a grounding in classical literature and poetry. The poems are perfect for reading just before bedtime, and you can even challenge members of your family to memorize a couple of the poems. Also, don't forget that the sounds and rhythms of poetry have been shown to be great for developing readers!
Reading books together as a family is a terrific habit. After beginning the practice, your children will quickly become better readers. Also, your children will be exposed to quality entertainment and the works of great minds. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, you will draw closer together as a family. What are you waiting for? Select one of the books above, and make it a goal to start reading it as a family later this week!
About Mikkie Mills: “I’m a Chicago native who loves to share her expertise about personal development and growth. When I’m not writing, I’m chasing the little ones around or rock climbing at the local climbing gym.” More articles by Mikkie.