Parenting Tips » Classic books that every kid below 12 should read

Classic books that every kid below 12 should read

In this age of Pokemon Go and Minecraft, do children read? A better question is, do we parents give them a chance to develop the reading habit? Numerous studies show that the habit of independent reading is positively related to improved comprehension abilities, general awareness, thinking skills and school success. These studies also show that reading has to start right from preschool years. In fact, the most effective way to develop the reading habit in children is for the parent to read to them in the preschool years. This should be followed by ensuring the availability of good quality books throughout childhood.

Nothing beats classics when it comes to quality language and vocabulary. It is a very good idea to get your kids start reading classics right from a young age.

We give below, a list of must-reads for kids below 12 years.

Ages 0-3

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Brown

A little bunny says good night to his favourite things before he sleeps. This is a soothing rhyming book for bedtime.

Available to buy at Amazon

Ages 0-3

Are You My Mother? (Board book) by P.D. Eastman

In this perfect story for toddlers, a baby bird goes in search of its mother.

You can buy this at Amazon

Ages 0-3

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr and Eric Carle

A book with unforgettable images of endearing animals.

You can buy this at Amazon

Ages 0-3

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom (Board Book) by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault

An all-time favourite of children that engages them through a thrilling alphabet chant.

You can buy this at Amazon

Ages 0-4

A Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

A young caterpillar gobbles up food in great amounts until he turns into a butterfly. This hugely popular book has been translated into more than 50 languages.

Available to buy at Amazon

Ages 0-4

Love You Forever by Robert Munsch

A book that celebrates love through little rhymes. This perennial favourite has been sold about 150 million copies worldwide, and has been translated into many languages.

Available to buy at Amazon

Ages 5-8

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

The book is about the capacity to love and to give, told through the life of a boy who grows into manhood, and a tree that lovingly gives him her bounty.

You can buy this at Amazon

Ages 6-10

Charlie and the chocolate factory by Roald Dahl

A classic children’s book about the adventures of five kids who get into plenty of mischief but are duly punished for each. A perennial favourite of children.

You can buy this at Amazon

Ages 8-12

Charlotte's Web by E. B. White

A classic book describing tender love, friendship, and life.

Available to buy at Amazon

Ages 8-12

Anne of green Gables by L. M. Montgomery

An enduring favourite with children. The irrepressible Anne of the story is a sure hit with your pre-teen.

Available to buy at Amazon

Ages 10-12

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

A true classic, with great characters, fantastic magic, humour and kindness rewarded.

You can buy this at Amazon