Our favorite family read alouds, part two

15 recommendations that will enchant and inspire

While revisiting childhood through my children’s eyes has had ups and downs, revisiting my favorite childhood chapter books with them has been pure joy. Getting to introduce my children to and indulge again in some of my very favorite books — books that inspired me, enchanted me, shaped my character and heart and mind — is simply unparalleled.

As parents, we have the gift of pointing our children toward what is good, true, beautiful, and praiseworthy. We also have the responsibility of walking with them through things that are hard, sad, and ugly. Books can help with both those things.

But the books we experience together — and the time we spend reading — are also simply a delight and a balm to this parent’s sometimes-weary soul. I hope that they are growing my kids and building our family culture. In the meantime, I can say with confidence that they are inspiring, enchanting, and shaping me just as much now as they did the first time.

With another 1.5 years of read alouds under our belt, I’m happy to share 15 chapter books we’ve loved, with a bit of commentary for most. (I’ve marked with footnotes who read what if you’re curious about age ranges!) I am always looking for book suggestions from people I trust, and I hope sharing our list can do that for you.