Chapter Books

After trying to consistently read chapter books to Anna over the years, it has finally 'taken', and I have her hooked on them. I love reading picture books as well, but there are so many good chapter books out there (and in here--as in, in our apartment) that I want to share with her.

We started with the BFG in  September. She loved it. The giant is charming, and his words are great fun to read aloud.

Since we have a set of Roal Dhal books, we moved on to the next one, Fantastic Mr. Fox. Anna had seen the movie, so often knew what was going to happen next. It's not as charming as the BFG, but we liked it.

Then we read George's Marvelous Medicine. Justin had read it, but I'm not sure if I have before. Dahl books are like fairy tales in that there are good and evil characters. Good triumphs in the end, and there isn't much redemption for evil characters, whether they be giants, farmers, or naughty children (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory--which we have read together as a family). Our problem with George's Marvelous Medicine is that the evil character is George's grandma, which makes it hard to be really happy at the end when she gets her due. I was hoping for some kind of redemption.

Now we're at the beginning of Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator, which at this point is pretty bizarre. It takes place where Charlie and the Chocolate Factory leaves off. 

Anna had wanted to read the BFG again, but I think she could try reading it on her own. I'm happy to read picture books over and over (except Amelia Bedelia books--which drive me up the wall), but I don't see re-reading a chapter book until a year has gone by. If the Great Glass Elevator disappoints, we may move on to another author for now. 

Justin and I are reading The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm. It takes place in Zimbabwe a couple hundred years from now and has an interesting mix of futuristic and African world view elements. I like the title characters, and the worldview elements will be worth discussing.

The kids have a week and a half of fall break now, which is great timing. It's been a good start all around for the school year, but it's been intense. We will be visiting dear friends and taking lots of pictures next week in Paris.