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Even as a child learns to read independently, continue reading to and with them. Discover favorite authors, read-aloud books, and readers for children in kindergarten through 4th grade.
The following books make great read-alouds for kindergarten to 2nd grade, while they can be used for readers for children on the 2nd–4th grade level.
A child reading on their own does not replace the value of read-alouds. Listening to an adult read helps build fluency, expression, vocabulary, and comprehension. When reading aloud, choose books that are a few levels above the child's independent reading level. For example, a book written at a 3rd-grade reading level may be too difficult for a 1st-grade child to read alone but is often perfect for an adult to read aloud.
To check a book's reading level, visit the Accelerated Reader website. Also discover tips for reading with your child for maximum learning.
Everyone's favorite literal-minded housekeeper, Amelia Bedelia, will keep you in stitches as you read about her adventures.
Peggy Parish is the author of the classic Amelia Bedelia books. Many of these have been made into "I Can Read" Books. Peggy's nephew Herman has continued with the character by writing "Young Amelia Bedelia" books. I have not read any of these.
2nd Grade Reading Level
These classics stories have been enjoyed for many generations. I prefer the older stories written by Stan and Jan Berenstain over the newer ones and caution the individual books that negatively display Papa Bear as the husband and father.
3rd Grade Reading Level
Four siblings find themselves without a place to live until they discover an old boxcar.
3rd-4th Grade Reading Level
A children's mystery series by Christian author Beverly Lewis.
2nd Grade Reading Level
Adventures with the fun little monkey and the man in the yellow hat.
2nd-3rd Grade Reading Level
Bubs found these books at the library. We have enjoyed learning about different European cities in each book as we follow Dodsworth and Duck through their travels.
2nd Grade Reading Level
Stanley has to learn how to deal with his new situation after a bulletin-board falls on him and makes him flat.
4th Grade Reading Level
Author Dav Pilkey has several fun books about Dragon for early elementary aged children.
2nd-3rd grade reading level.
Another popular series by Cynthia Rylant. Amazon says it best, "Henry doesn't have any brothers or sisters or friends. What he does have is Mudge, a 180-pound dog who is Henry's best friend and protector. The pair share several adventures in this lighthearted and easy-to-read book."
2nd Grade Reading Level.
This timeless classic about a family of tiny people, turned into a series.
3rd Grade Reading Level
Enjoy the trips that Jack and Annie take in the Magic Tree House.
3rd Grade Reading Level
Hilarious stories about a toast-loving pig, Mercy, who lives with Mr. and Mrs. Watson in their home. We also greatly enjoyed the Tales of Mercy Watson's Deckawoo Drive.
2nd Grade Reading Level
Yet another series by Cynthia Rylant, follow a city pig named Poppleton as he adjusts to life in a small town with his new friends.
2nd Grade Reading Level
Note: I have not read all of the books written by each of the authors listed above. Please read the books before sharing the suggested books with your children or students.
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