What Book Got You Hooked?

Do you remember the one book that revealed the joy of reading?  The book that made you want to stay up just a little longer?  You may have been hooked in your childhood, or maybe as an adult, but there was a book or two that got you hooked on reading.

Children need to be exposed to several books to develop that desire.  Find out what interests them.  Learn about characters they may enjoy.  Try a book they loved hearing read aloud in class, or share one of your childhood favorites. 

Here are a few of the books that got me hooked.  Some are books that were read aloud to me when I was very young and others are ones I enjoyed reading on my own.

Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey

My first grade teacher read this aloud to us often.  I could wait to learn to read well enough to read this book on my own.  It has been a favorite of my boys as well.

The Lorax by Dr. Suess

I feel in love with the illustrations in this book.  It is a wonderful story filled with many discussion points to encourage responses from your child.  Read the book with them before you go out and buy the movie!

The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams

Another first grade favorite!  This is a classic story that all children would love.

Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman

This is the FIRST book I read completely on my own that was not my reading textbook from school.

Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary

If you grew up in the 70s or 80s you probably fell like you know Ramona personally.  All the Ramona books are fun and engaging for older readers.  Her quirky antics will still entertain children today.

The Borrowers by Mary Norton

This book was read aloud by my fourth grade teacher.  It was the first piece of fantasy I fell in love with.  Girls and boys can enjoy this book.  There are many versions and sequels now available that will allow your children to continue to follow these fun characters.

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine Engle

If you have boys in upper elementary or middle school that are unmotivated to read, try this one.  It is a science fiction, fantasy full of adventure and alternate worlds.  This one would be a great book to read along with your child.  It may bring back some nostalgia for you and spark new interest for them!

These books are definitely oldies, but still goodies!  I hope that I have stirred up some memories about the book that got you hooked.  Try to get your child hooked on reading with a good book!