Written by: Shelley Kress
Award-Winning Las Vegas Teacher
As a 4th grade teacher, I have had a wide range of reading interests within my classes. As any teacher, I readily encourage reading of any sort! These are some of the favorite book genres that the kids keep reading that I would thoroughly recommend!
Graphic Novels
Examples: Dog Man, Amulet, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Dork Diary
The visual format of graphic novels is incredibly engaging to students. Combining images and text helps students better understand the story and the context of what they are reading. Graphic novels can be less intimidating for reluctant readers or those struggling with traditional novels. The presence of pictures can make reading feel less daunting and more enjoyable, encouraging kids to read more often. Readers must analyze both the text and images to understand the story, which enhances their comprehension skills fully. Finally, reading graphic novels can inspire creativity in kids. They might be motivated to create their own comics or graphic stories, which can help improve their storytelling and artistic skills!
Early Reader Chapter Books
Examples: Magic Tree House, A-Z Mysteries, Ivy & Bean, Nate the Great, Branches Books – Fire Hawk, Notebook of Doom. Dragon Masters
Early reader chapter books serve as a bridge between picture books and more complex novels, making them an excellent choice for beginner readers who are transitioning from simple stories to longer, more text-heavy books. These books are designed to introduce readers to longer narratives and more advanced vocabulary in a gradual manner, helping them build their reading skills. Early reader chapter books are typically written with straightforward language and shorter chapters, allowing children to read on their own and develop a sense of independence as readers. This boosts their confidence and motivates them to tackle more challenging texts. While these books have fewer illustrations than picture books, they still include visual elements that aid in understanding the text and provide context for the story.
Fantasy/Adventure
Example: Harry Potter, Charlie Bone, Artemis Fowl, Percy Jackson (and books written by Rick Riordan), The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel, Among the Hidden, The Name of this Book is Secret
Fantasy worlds in books ignite children’s imaginations. They transport readers to magical realms, encouraging them to dream, create, and envision new possibilities. Many fantasy and adventure books feature diverse characters, species, and cultures. This can help children develop empathy and a better understanding of people who are different from themselves. Fantasy and adventure books frequently present characters with challenges and problems that require creative solutions. This can inspire children to think outside the box and develop problem-solving skills. Fantasy books introduce children to rich and imaginative storytelling. They can appreciate the art of crafting intricate plots, unique settings, and well-developed characters.
Picture Books
Examples: Pig the Pug, Can I Be Your Dog?, The Pigeon Wants to Drive the Bus, The Bad Seed
Picture books provide an opportunity for children to develop and enhance their visual literacy skills. Analyzing the illustrations, understanding visual cues, and interpreting complex images can be valuable skills in our increasingly visual world. Picture books often feature concise and well-crafted narratives. Children can appreciate the art of storytelling in these books, including character development, plot structure, and the use of imagery to convey emotions and themes. For reluctant readers or those who may be transitioning to longer chapter books, picture books can serve as a bridge, helping them build confidence and interest in reading. Finally, reading picture books together can be a wonderful bonding experience for all children and their parents or caregivers!
Nostalgic/Timeless
Examples: Anne of Green Gables, Little House on the Prairie, Ronald Dahl, Charlotte’s Web, A Wrinkle in Time, Pippy Longstocking, Boxcar Children, The Babysitter’s Club
These books often explore universal themes such as friendship, family, love, resilience, and the human spirit. These themes resonate with children across generations, allowing them to connect with characters and situations from different time periods. This enhances the reading experience and stimulates the imagination. Parents, and grandparents who read these books during their own childhood can bond with children over shared memories and stories. Timeless or nostalgic books tend to focus on simple and wholesome storytelling. They can provide a break from the fast-paced and high-tech world, allowing children to appreciate the beauty of simplicity.
Books Turned into Movies/TV
Example: A Series of Unfortunate Events, Upside Down Magic, Babysitters Club, Boxcar Children, Charlotte’s Web, Harry Potter, Artemis Fowl, Anne of Green Gables, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Alexander and the No Good, Very Bad Day
Fantasy worlds in books ignite children’s imaginations. They transport readers to magical realms, encouraging them to dream, create, and envision new possibilities. Many fantasy and adventure books feature diverse characters, species, and cultures. This can help children develop empathy and a better understanding of people who are different from themselves. Fantasy and adventure books frequently present characters with challenges and problems that require creative solutions. This can inspire children to think outside the box and develop problem-solving skills. Fantasy books introduce children to rich and imaginative storytelling. They can appreciate the art of crafting intricate plots, unique settings, and well-developed characters.
