Encouraging Kids to Read with Chapter Books in 2014

I began reading at a very young age, and as a result, I still love reading everything I can get my hands on. Yes, this includes cereal boxes and shampoo bottles. I also strive to instill a love of reading and learning in youngsters. I want them to have the love of adventure and curiosity for education that can only be fulfilled through learning from through reading. Because that is an amazing feeling!

With this in mind, I’ve compiled a list of 3 of the best chapter books for kids 2014. These can be read to children as bedtime stories, during classroom time, or any time in between. Get your kid excited about reading!

These books are unique, innovative, and satisfying for thrill-seekers and little explorers alike.
And those 3 are:

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Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren

Grown-ups will certainly remember this one! Pippi Longstocking is a quirky, amazing, red-headed little girl with adventure brimming in her heart and hope in her eyes. She’s intelligent and savvy about everything – from sailing the seven seas, to tending to exotic animals, and exploring the whole world.

This book has several different focuses, as Pippi Longstocking takes the reader on weeks through her life. She makes friends (and a few enemies), and impresses everyone with her sense of exploration and ability to overcome any obstacle.

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Amelia Bedelia Chapter Book #2: Amelia Bedelia Unleashed by Herman Parrish

You might recognize this one, as well! However, Amelia Bedelia has been revamped for modern youngsters. She’s still a thriving, imaginative beauty who takes everything literally. And her parents have just agreed to a pet!

Amelia wants a puppy – but not any puppy. She wants the best pup in the world. And this tale follows her from one adventure to another until she finds her ideal doggy.

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Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life by James Patterson

James Patterson is a name that grown-ups will certainly remember (especially if you’re a reader of thrillers and suspense). He’s well-known in the adult world, but this story is his way of trying out youth fiction. And he nails it!

The “about” portion of this tale is all in the title. A young boy is headed to Middle School, and he documents every day of misadventure. With laugh-out-loud moments, he makes friends, finds crushes, does tons of homework, and discovers that Middle School might not be so bad.

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Here is a cool slideshow - giving the top 5 picks based on popular demand, for the "best of" chapter books for kids in 2014:

Educational Books for 10-Year Olds That Love History

Reading is awesome! And History is one of the greatest subjects ever! When combined, these 2 make an excellent hobby for young bookworms.

The following best books for ten year olds in 2014 are all about historic events (usually told from the point-of-view of other kiddos). There are biographies and true-to-history stories that are super-education and ultra-entertaining for miniature reading buffs.

Some are blatantly historical, and others document personal actions that have been done by youngsters in the past – such as kids who have overcome adversities to find hope, happiness, and uniqueness.

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Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

This book is actually on several classroom readings lists in both homeschools and public schools. Set in 1943 during Nazi-held Denmark, this story follows a little girl named Annemarie Johannesen.

Her best friend, Ellen Rosen, is hiding from the Nazis, and on the eve of the Jewish round-up, Annemarie’s family helps Ellen and her parents escape the country.

Told from the point-of-view of a 10-year old little girl, this story is both tragic and riveting, as Annemarie doesn’t understand the actions of politics – only the feelings she has to protect her best friend.

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Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper

Melody is an 11-year old with an extremely photographic memory. She remembers everything in alarming detail! However, no one else knows. Melody has an ailment that makes it impossible for her to communicate, both verbally and with body language. She’s an absolute genius, but no one knows because she cannot tell them. Until she discovers a way to communicate her thoughts and feelings.

This story is based on an actual invention in history! Over time, it has helped people, like Stephen Hawking, speak without actually saying anything. And Melody is this tale’s beacon of hope!

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Locomotive by Brian Floca

“A new road of rails – made for people to ride.” – This sentence began the Transcontinental Railway in 1869; a transportation idea that flourished and has since spawned hundreds of advancements in railroad travel.

In well-paced rhythms, this poem explores the concepts of train stations and vintage transportation in prose. Beginning with how the road was built, and ending with the upgrades in modern times, the story provides train buffs and history fans with an outlet for their imaginations. The illustrations are amazing and realistic, matching the greatness of each melodic verse.

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Following is a video presenting the author of "Number the Stars," Lois Lowry (a fascinating woman):

Board Books to Inspire Imaginations in 2014

The best board books this year are inspiring to the imagination of each reader. They’re evoking of fantastic mental imagery, and grown-ups (those secret kids-at-heart) will absolutely love every telling and retelling of the stories because they are guaranteed to make youngsters giggle. And that laughter is worth all the gold in the world to a parent!

I’ve pinpointed a trio of amazing board books that are best for curious toddlers and their doting caregivers. Each of these books are unique in their own way, teaching kids life lessons that assist with their brain development and early sense of self-confidence.

And those 3 are:

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First 100 Words by Roger Priddy

Some words are need-to-knows – commonly referred to as sight-words. These are compilations of letters designed to give your toddler a mental image each time the word is uttered. This book has 100 of those – all simple and easy to read and learn.

They’re combined in a tough board-book that is soft enough for baby to grasp and hold on their own. And it can easily withstand the years of wear-and-tear that comes from being man-handled by an excited toddler.

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Peek-A Who? by Nina Laden

Colorful and beautiful, this book combines simple rhyming words and amazing illustrations. The format of this story is straightforward and effortless to grasp. Die-cut holes show what lurks in zoos, farms, and rainforests – from owls, to cows, to cheetahs, and tons of other awesome animals. There’s also a creepy (but not-so-scary) green, grinning ghost hiding amidst the pages.

MOO! BOO! ZOO! These are words that your child will learn to read and mimic over-and-over again. It’s sure to become a tried-and-true bedtime favorite for your kiddos, their future youngsters, and generations to come.

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The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

This story is timeless, scientific, and beautiful! A very hungry caterpillar is hatched at the beginning of a week. And as that week progresses, the caterpillar eats holes through the days, growing fatter and fatter as his hunger grows. He finally becomes so large and full that he has to wrap up in his cocoon for a much-needed nap to digest.

However, when he wakes up, he discovers that he has transformed into a gorgeous butterfly with impressive, colorful wings that take up an entire 2 pages. He flutters away with a satisfied feeling in his heart – no longer hunger and completely fulfilled.

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Get more info on the top selling board books (updated each year to provide current info):

Best Board Books 2014

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Video reading of "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle...

The Best Reads for 8-Year Old Bookworms in 2014

It warms my heart when kiddos are self-proclaimed bookworms! And for those reading-loving cuties the world-over, I’ve compiled an awesome short-list of 3 books for 8-year olds in 2014.

These stories make memories by being fascinating, captivating, and overall great reads. They’re told from different points-of-view with unique themes and attention-grabbing storylines. Plus, there are riveting illustrations in vivid, vibrant colors!

Each of the following books was picked because they evoke strong emotion, creating imagery that unveils a fantastic story within your child’s mind. And they’re all personal favorites that are must-haves in my home.

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Wonder by R. J. Palacio

August Pullman (Auggie to his friends) was born with a deformity on his face – one that kept him out of public school until 5th grade. But entering mainstream education and social interaction isn’t that easy. Instead of making best buddies right away, Auggie finds himself the subject of cruel conversations, pranks, and insensitive questions.

However, persevering through the pain of being bullied, Auggie finds a group of close friends – ones that teach him acceptance, loyalty, and kindness.

This story is unique because the points-of-view constantly change from Auggie, to his sister and her boyfriend, to classroom peers, teachers, and tons of others that are seeing the situation differently.


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The Giver by Lois Lowry

There are two editions to this book – one is the original released in 2002. The other is completely illustrated, described as a “gift” edition, and it’s totally awesome.

Both editions feature the same amazing story about 12-year old Jonas and his perfect world. His community is fragile and literally perfect – there’s no crime, war, or pain, and everyone has their job to do. However, every-so-often, life assignments choose who will learn of the world’s past, and Jonas is next in line to keep his community’s darkest secrets.

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Oh, The Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss

Seuss has a way with words – obviously – and this book is his tribute to growing up. With rhymes and prose that kiddos can understand, Seuss tells his readers that they can do everything and be anything. The story’s little boy spreads his proverbial wings, traveling anywhere he wants to go to explore and discover brand-new things.

This book would be the perfect gift for graduates and 20-somethings who have decided to leave home. And it’s also a great present for youngsters with big dreams and high hopes.

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More info - books for 8 year olds 2014 (updated yearly for future years too)

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Vid - what should an 8 year old be able to read?

Laugh-Out-Loud Books for Giggly 9-Year Olds 2014

My kiddos are prone to random fits of giggles, as I assume most children are. And the majority of their laughs come from stories about hilarious situations. The following 3 reads have been dubbed the best books for 9-year old kids that love to laugh, often. There are funny animals in silly scenarios with kooky moments galore. And there are crazy-cool youngsters that turn into everyday heroes by documenting their school-busy lives. When you combine these 2 (cute kids and awesome animals), the stories incite riotous eruptions of nothing but giggles and good times.

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Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard Luck, Book 8 by Jeff Kinney

Greg Heffley has begun Middle School with no friends. Tragic, I know! His group of buddies have abandoned him to seek their personal popularities amidst clusters of “cool kids.” And Greg feels completely down on his luck.

Deciding to change his destiny, he starts relying on the (literal) throw of the dice to make his major decisions. Packed with laughs from the point-of-view of a 6th grade outcast, this book is a relatable coming-of-age story that kids (and adults) will love to read.

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The Everything Kids’ Science Experiments Book by Tom Robinson

“Challenge the world around you!” As far as taglines go, this one is the best EVER! Encouraging children to discover, explore, and be inspired, this book has a few science experiments that are guaranteed to begin a few giggles. It’s also extremely educational, with projects like – boiling ice, floating water, and measuring gravity.

Kiddos will learn the answer to perplexing scientific questions, such as “what is inside coins?” or “can magnets ever be turned off?” and “can medicine be effective AND tasteless?” Your youngsters are sure to be science-savvy geniuses by the end!

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Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures by Kate DiCamillo

Comic-obsessed Flora and superhero squirrel Ulysses are an unlikely pair of super-cynic friends who, together, learn the meanings of optimism and hope. Did I mention our hero-squirrel can type poetry? Flora is his best friend, and they travel on a mental journey to learn all of the world’s wonders.

This story has plenty of laugh-out-loud moments with hilarious situations around every corner. But it’s also a heartwarming tale, as Flora and Ulysses share friendship and love with a bond as strong as family. The characters are so real, making every scenario relatable – minus the realistic option of a high-flying, poetry-writing squirrel.

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To get a fun, up-to-date list of the best books for 9 year old children this year, visit:

Best Books for 9 Year Old Kids

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More on books for 9 year olds - watch the slideshow...

Three Creative Books for 6-Year Old Readers 2014

The key to teaching children how to read is creativity that makes reading fun. Kiddos that view reading as a go-to hobby are more likely to do well in school because they’re teaching themselves new words, grammatical accuracy, and sentence structure with every story.

As a promoter of young readers and literacy overall, I have compiled a short-list naming 3 of the most creative, 2014 books for 6-year olds.

Each of the following stories are thought-provoking and artistic, encouraging children to look beyond the written word and use their imaginations to “see” scene:

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The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt

BRILLIANT! I love this book because I had always wondered what crayons talked about when their box was closed. In this story, Duncan goes to draw and finds all of his crayons have gone on strike. They’re not coloring until their demands are met!

The yellow and orange are arguing over which one is the true color of sunshine, blue is overworked and tired of drawing lakes and ponds, and black wants more outlining work. The concept is hilarious and Duncan goes through a range of laugh-out-loud emotions before settling on a heart-warming solution.

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Journey by Aaron Becker

In my opinion, this book is an essential must-have for adults and kiddos alike. Instead of relying on one-liners and kid-friendly laughs, this story has substance as a true literary great. The illustrations are beautifully detailed in vibrant colors, and the words are poetic with imagery and perfect allusions. Truly gripping, riveting, and awe-inspiring!

What is this story about? Well, a little girl finds a red marker, and begins drawing because she’s a budding artist. She draw doorways, magic carpets, boats, and hundreds of other entryways into fantastical realms. She explores everything around her, leaving no nook and cranny undiscovered as she traipses through one amazing world after another.

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The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

After a newborn caterpillar begins eating his way across the pages, he cannot stop! He’s simply too hungry, and there are too many good foods to be had from one page to another. As he munches, his tummy becomes bigger and bigger, until the caterpillar has more than doubled in size. With a bellyache and high hopes, he cocoons, eventually emerging as a beautiful, vivid butterfly.

This story is awesome and timeless – it teaches youngsters about scientific metamorphosis in ways they can understand.
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Check out more - Here is a fun slideshow resource for the 2014 top selling and most highly rated books for 6 year olds this year:

The Coolest Books for 7-Year Old Kiddos in 2014

The coolest books for 7 year old kids this year combine various themes – some of them are hilarious with giggle-worthy rhymes and kid-friendly one-liners. Others strive to evoke heart-warming feelings of love, friendship, and the ever-enduring greatness of a close-knit family. And out of these various books, a simple trio have made this list because of their thought-provoking content and laugh-out-loud scenarios.

These are also my personal favorites among the best books for 7 year olds as one has been around for decades, another is new AND humorous, and the last is educational with an encouraging life-lesson. All 3 are guaranteed to be timeless must-haves for bedtime rituals – or anytime, really.

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LEGO Play Book: Ideas to Bring Your Bricks to Life by Daniel Lipkowitz

I love LEGOs! To this day, I can sit for hours and play LEGOs with the kiddos, racking my brain to make houses, dinosaurs, and anything fantastical. This book inspires with pictures and step-by-step instructions to get LEGO-loving brains moving. There are over 200 building ideas, broken into sections of fantasy, future, small worlds, untamed wilderness, and monsters.

Youngsters (and those young-at-heart) can build troll bridges, fairytale castles, giants, enchanted forests, and under-the-sea scenes. They can also construct amazing, witchy hovels, zoo animals, dragons, and hundreds of “vacation” areas where they would love to go one day.

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The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

Despereaux Tilling is a brave mouse with an adventurous spirit – much to the dismay of his meek family.

After being banished for being too courageous, the little gentleman befriends a rat named Roscuro. Together, the duo traverse a lonely kingdom where the King is always sad and the Princess longs for normalcy, purpose, and happiness.

There’s also a stable girl turned hand-maiden, and she only wants to be recognized. Their stories intertwine, weaving new fates that give them all exactly what they want and need.

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Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

Charlie Bucket is a poverty-stricken little boy from a poor family of 7 – all of them live in a tumble-down shack, feasting on cabbage-water soup with crusts of bread for their evening dinners.

Charlie longs for change, something better for him and his family – he wants an adventure. And that is exactly what Charlie gets when he finds the golden ticket that allows him and 4 other children to visit Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory; a place of oddities, wonders, and Oompa Loompas.

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Here is a video about the first book on this list - the LEGO Play Book (possibly my favorite kids' book this year)...