Reading Recs for Kids + Parents
Shared Book Recommendations
One of the best family rituals is nightly shared reading.
Any novel works as a way to naturally open up dialogue and have the characters and plots be the starting point for some truly amazing and authentic conversations.
The following titles are the ones Coach Rachel has covered this past school year with her sons and the themes represented in them support conversations around empathy, neurodivergent thinking, and the power of the growth mindset.
They’re also the first books in series, which means your kids will be hooked to want to read more! Win! Happy reading, snuggling and connecting!
The Lightening Thief by Rick Riordon
Summary: A boy who always finds himself in trouble is actually a Greek god’s son, and is tasked with saving the world. This book is fast paced and action packed!
(ages 8 and up)
The War that Saved My Life Series by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Summary: Holy heart strings! This beautiful story that will encourage deep and true feelings of empathy. This historical fiction takes place during World War II in England. The main character is a neglected girl with a clubbed foot. This story does contain some heavy topics like abuse, and trauma, but also, deep discovery and healing, self love and redemption. This story can spark many real life topics providing an opportunity to discuss and navigate together.
(ages 9 and up)
Out of My Mind Series by Sharon M. Draper
Summary: This fictional novel is about a girl with cerebral palsy. She’s incredibly bright but is unable to speak without her assistive technology. The story is about her integration into a mainstreamed classroom. While reading, you’ll find lots of opportunities to discuss inclusion and empathy.
(ages 9 and up
Wonder by R.J. Palacios
Summary: Another great book about inclusion, compassion, friendship, empathy and hope. This is the story of 9 year old Auggie who was born with facial differences and his struggles to “fit in” at school. It’s told from multiple perspectives, and lots of pop culture references to engage the adult readers in a little bit of nostalgia.
(ages 9 and up)
The Mysterious Benedict Society
Summary: This is the story of a group of misfit kids tasked to save the world from totalitarian mind control. Each has their own unique talents and quirks that they must all learn to understand and accept and eventually understand that those quirks are actually strengths. This book is lengthy and incredibly descriptive but definitely worth the patience!
(ages 9 and up)
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