(little) avid readers.

with the oldest kiddo now in fourth grade, 

& the youngest in first (just learning to really read),

todd & i have been placing a much larger focus on reading at home.

and reading has become a bit trendy:

the kids want to read anything that "everyone else" is reading, 

which (at the moment) is:

- anything & everything Big Nate.  

N has devoured the first 3 of the series, 

is currently waiting for the arrival of book 4 (thank goodness for amazon)

& is tapping his foot (im)patiently waiting for book 5 to be released.

these stories are half book, half comic strip 

(which totally bumps up their cool factor).

(photo credit: bignatebooks)

- Nerds: National Espionage, Rescue, & Defense Society.

i found this one while rummaging the shelves at barnes & noble, 

attempting to find something to fill the big nate void.

these books are cleverly written,

 & very similar to the silly cartoons that the kiddos love to watch.

(photo credit: abramsbooks)

- ivy & bean.

E wants to read whatever N is reading, 

but Big Nate, Nerds, & others are too far a reach for a beginner reader.

the ivy & bean series is much more manageable,

while still being a bit challenging for her,

& the stories are great for us to read out loud as well.

(photo credit: anniebarrows)

while they do read the occasional single story, 

the kids seem focused on reading series, 

which is much different than what i was devouring as a young reader.

when i was in elementary school, my favorites included ...

photo credit:

amelia bedelia

number the stars

a little princess

just as long as we're together

little women

goosebumps

the witches

what books do you recommend for young readers today?

what were your favorites as a child?

for more favorites children & young readers books 

from the late 80 and early 90s, check out

mama nyc's list

and

children of the 90's list, part I & II