Digital Natives Need the Power of Story.
Today’s students live in a world of unprecedented digital media. Immersive entertainment in games, videos and music leave little room for imagination.
Enter the read-aloud. When a child is read a book, he or she engages that most elemental of humanity–imagination.
Numerous studies demonstrate that read-aloud books in a classroom environment help children progress in their own reading skills. Read-aloud books increase focus, decrease anxiety and build a sense of community.
Responding to pressure to perform, the read-aloud has been eliminated in many classrooms. It’s time to bring it back.
Below are a few read-aloud books that work great for students K-8.
Read Alouds for Grades 5-8
Fish In A Tree by by Lynda Mullay Hunt
An uplifting book of a child who overcomes a learning disability to see her true potential. Students will find inspiration from and empathy for the main character.
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
An obvious pick for a list like this. The book has heart and will engage any group of listeners. When you’re done reading, the movie is excellent and classroom-appropriate.
Schooled by Gordon Korman
Cap Anderson was raised and home-schooled on a commune. When he attends a public middle school, he receives an altogether different type of education.
Nory Ryan’s Song by Patricia Reily Giff
Life is hard on Maiden Bay in Ireland for Nory and his family. When the potato famine hits, he must summon the courage and ingenuity to find food and hope.
Seedfolks by Paul Fleishman
A vacant lot in an inner city brings 13 very different people together as they plant seeds and harvest friendship and hope along with vegetables.
Serafina and the Black Cloak by Robert Beatty
Serafina lives a secret life that she’d prefer not to upset. But, as children begin disappearing, only she can solve the mystery.
Face by Benjamin Zephaniah
Martin, a good-looking teen, suffers a horrible accident–his face completely disfigured. Martin struggles through the reconstruction of his face and his life. His character, however, remains intact.
Drums, Girls and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick
He plays drums, has a crush on the hottest girl in school, and is constantly annoyed by his younger brother. But when Jeffrey gets sick, Steven’s world is turned upside down, and he is forced to deal with his brother’s illness.
See the full Middle School list here
Read Aloud Books for Young Readers
All the World by Liz Garton Scanlon illustrated by Marla Frazee
Following a circle of family and friends through an entire day. Shows that people are connected and need each other.
On the Morn of Mayfest by Erica Silverman Illustrated by Marla Frazee
A bouncy and catchy poem that follow a Mayday parade. The rhyme and illustrations delight and entertain any reader.
Use Your Imagination by Nocola O’Bryne
Rabbit is bored. Wolf can help out by helping him write his own story. With delightful twists and turns the story keeps readers engaged.
Bedtime is Canceled by Cece Mang, Illustrator Aurilie Neyret
What activity is more universal than bedtime? In this story, Maggie thinks of the idea that bedtime is canceled–next thing they know, bedtime is canceled throughout the city.
All of Us by Carin Berger
Beautiful collage illustration share stories of community, empathy and the power of love. Great title for any size group.
Louis I King of the Sheep by OLiver Tallec
Louis is just another sheep until he encounters a crown, pronounces himself ruler and then loses it all when the crown blows away. A sensitive and funny commentary on the fickle nature of political power that all readers can enjoy.
The Pout Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen, Illlustator Dan Hanna
A fish with a bad attitude learns that he can be in charge of his own emotions. The Pout Pout fish provides fun and many voice options for a narrator.
The Bear Who Wasn’t There by LeUyen Pham
A book about Bear. What happens when he doesn’t show up to his own story? Who will take his place? A fun story about filling in.