Reading books aloud as a family is a perfect way to spend time together while also increasing children’s reading skills. Listening to stories helps kids who are learning, and who know how to read, by building their vocabulary and comprehension skills. And above all, there’s nothing quite like sharing a story with someone. Many of these titles also exist as audio books – ask a librarian if you need help finding a title. (Updated: November 2019)
Ways to Grow Love
Ryan Hart returns in this second installment of stories exploring the challenges and anxiety of growing up. As she finishes up 4th grade, she is so excited about summer, but with a new baby on the way, things don't go as expected. But she tackles these challenges with grace, tenacity, and spirit that is sure to inspire young readers.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
View Ways to Grow LoveTofu Takes Time
Stories about food and family are always a great choice for read-alouds. Tofu Takes Time is a charming story about Lin and her grandma, NaiNai as they tackle making tofu from scratch. Though Lin grows more impatient with each step, she eventually recognizes why tofu takes time. NaiNai, with Lin's help, turns a bag of soybeans into scrumptious tofu that is only possible with time, patience, and a lot of love.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
View Tofu Takes TimeAlways, Clementine
Clementine is a very special mouse with abilities unlike any other. Scientists have put her through a zillion tests, but one day a kindhearted tech sets her free, and that’s when her true adventures begin! But being free isn’t enough when she knows her friends are still trapped in the lab. Told through letters between a mouse and a chimpanzee, this story is sure to melt your heart.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
View Always, ClementineThe Coquíes Still Sing
Elena loves to listen to the coquí frogs sing from the top of their family’s mango tree. But after a devastating hurricane, their songs disappear. But as Elena’s community comes together to rebuild their homes and livelihood, the songs of the coquíes slowly return. It’s a beautiful story of resilience and hope.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
View The Coquíes Still SingPeggy's Impossible Tale
Told through the voice of Peggy - an extraordinary guinea pig - this sweet story is a perfect book to share with the whole family. After being adopted by a devoted family, Peggy learns to communicate with them and eventually earns a prestigious prize for her endeavors.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
View Peggy's Impossible Tale