Book recommendations for kids

By Claire Elliott

April 23^th is world book day and here at Nessie we are all talking about our favourite books in preparation for what is sure to be a fun week in class. Today I am going to be talking about my three favourite young learners books. Are you sitting comfortably? Then I’ll begin.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Number one has got to be The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. It is probably the most popular children’s book in the world, having sold 30 million copies in 40 languages worldwide. It follows the story of a caterpillar in
spring time and its transformation into a beautiful butterfly. I love this book because it covers so many themes and is appropriate for different ages.
The book covers fruit, days of the week, colours, spring and even moderation. The eventual transformation of the caterpillar also makes this a great story for teaching not just about the life cycle of a butterfly but also personal development. There are so many extra activities that can build upon the story too, such as counting or arts and crafts. This book is a great starting point for developing a child’s passion for reading.

Elmer

Secondly, a book that has always had a place in my heart, Elmer by David McKee. This book follows the story of a multi-coloured, jovial elephant called Elmer who lives in a world populated by otherwise normal elephants.  Elmer is desperate to blend in with the other elephants and so decorates himself in grey coloured berries. He discovers that the other elephants no longer recognise him and ostracise him from the group. It is only when it begins to rain, and the grey paint is washed away, that his ‘true colours’ are revealed making his friends revel in delight at the return of their friend. The story is so powerful because it provides an entry for early exploration of themes relating to diversity. It teaches that people will love you because of your differences and not in spite of them. For this reason I think it is absolutely essential reading to encourage empathy and emotional development.

The Gruffalo

Finally, third on my list has to be The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson. The Gruffalo is a short and beautifully illustrated children’s rhyming book. It follows a tricky mouse on his journey through the deep, dark woods, and his eventual meeting with the terrifying Gruffalo! It is beautiful to listen to and great to read aloud. I enjoy this book so much because it demonstrates that wit and intelligence beats scary and strong even if it doesn’t look the part. Mice are not known for their cleverness. But that’s the point. You don’t have to look smart to be smart.

For me these are essential readings for all children. They cover themes of love, acceptance, transformation and strength. So if you haven’t already read these or read these to your child then they are an excellent way to develop a life-long love of reading.