Some stories stick with us forever. An adult might cherish the memory of sitting on her mother’s lap listening to her read Winnie the Pooh. The sight of a vegetable garden might make someone recall the times spent listening to “The Tale of Peter Rabbit.” What makes these stories memorable? Part of it might be the excellence of the literature. Time-tested children’s literature will continue to ring true to the current generation of young people. But there is also something about the story that the child can relate to. Even if the main character is a stuffed bear come to life, a young listener empathizes with that bear’s rumbly tummy and kind heart. When choosing your next read aloud book for the kindergarten age, consider these stories with characters and plots children will cherish.
A New Coat for Anna by Harriet Ziefert. (1986)
The war-ravaged setting may be strange to this generation, but the love and resourcefulness of Anna, her mother, and her friends will warm the hearts of anyone who has outgrown a coat and needs a new one. A common problem is met, not with money, but with trading and generosity.
Lentil by Robert McCloskey (1940)
Children can relate to Lentil, who wants to sing but simply isn’t good at it. This charming small-town story shows how one boy learns a new talent and uses it to help get his town through a sour situation.
Mirette on the High Wire by Emily Arnold McCully (1992)
Although not many children grow up to walk on high wires, many children do persevere to become very good at a certain skill. This story with lovely illustrations shows how children can sometimes provide meaningful encouragement to adults.
Very Last First Time by Jan Andrews (1985)
The Arctic setting of this story will probably be as unfamiliar and strange as the bottom of the sea is to the main character. However, every young child can think of something they have done for the first time. It may be scary. It may be wonderful. And hopefully, it is very rewarding.
Owl Moon by Jane Yolen (1987)
A special nighttime trip to the woods with Dad is exciting in itself. Will the purpose of the trip – an owl sighting – be even better than the quiet walk? This book relates to a child’s sense of quiet wonder of the natural world.
Amber on the Mountain by Tony Johnston (1994)
Kindergartners are just beginning on the skill of reading. Amber might be a little older than them, but she also learns to read from a special friend. When the friend moves away, she learns to write as well. The beautiful illustrations by Robert Duncan are wonderful to share with your child.
Storm in the Night by Mary Stolz (1988)
Being scared of thunderstorms is something Thomas’ grandfather can understand. He addresses the fear by telling a story of himself when he was a boy and frightened by a storm. Read this to your child and then talk about your own fears and how you overcame them.
Mrs. Katz and Tush by Patricia Polacco (1992)
Do you have any cat lovers in your family? Enjoy this story of a lonely woman, a compassionate boy, a cat, and a friendship that lasts a lifetime.
How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World by Marjorie Priceman (1994)
Finding all the ingredients for an apple pie becomes a trip around the world for one girl! Enjoy the silliness of this book and learn a thing or two about geography while you’re at it. See if you recognize all the friends who come to eat the pie at the end of the book!
We hope you enjoy these wonderful stories, but most of all, we hope you enjoy the act of reading with your child. Reading books aloud creates special memories that will stick with your child as much as the story does. These are the moments that last!
