You Can Make the Kids Lifelong Readers
Legendary author Katherine Paterson tells you how
by Katherine Paterson
 The Flint Heart © 2011 by Katherine & John Paterson |
Katherine Paterson, the author of classic books for young people including Bridge to Terabithia and The Great Gilly Hopkins, is the current National Ambassador for Young People's Literature. Her latest book is The Flint Heart, co-written by her husband, John Paterson, and illustrated by John Rocco.
Some years ago my daughter-in-law, Samantha, said to me: "Please just give the children books for Christmas. They'll get plenty of other stuff, but I want them to have books you've chosen especially for them."
Needless to say, it was a request that I have joyfully honored ever since. My seven grandchildren know that, along with a little money, the gift from Nana and Grandpop will be a book. With parents and grandparents who value books, it is no wonder that they have all turned into eager readers. Even my youngest grandchild, who struggled with reading initially, announced to his mother this year that he "loves to read." All four of my children and their spouses read aloud to our grandchildren, and books that families can read aloud together and treasure for another generation make perfect, lasting gifts.
Our partners at Candlewick Press recommend these children's books for holiday gift-giving this season:
For Ages 2 to 5
Guess How Much I Love You: The Pop-Up Edition
by Sam McBratney, illustrated by Anita Jeram
Loving someone to the moon and back takes on a whole new dimension! The cherished classic is even more enticing in this new pop-up edition.
Love Waves
by Rosemary Wells
How can you comfort a young child who misses a special person when he or she is away? A treasured picture book offers the perfect solution.
The Twelve Days of Christmas
by Jane Ray
In this illustrated interpretation of the holiday classic, each two-page spread offers surprises as nostalgic city scenes depict a multiethnic cast of characters bustling with packages and sprucing up their homes in time for Christmas.
For Ages 5 to 8
Chanukah Lights
by Michael J. Rosen, illustrated by Robert Sabuda
From a pop-up master and an acclaimed poet and author comes a glorious celebration of the true spirit of Chanukah.
Franklin and Winston: A Christmas That Changed the World
by Douglas Wood, illustrated by Barry Moser
A compelling look at two leaders who held the world's fate in their hands – and the holiday visit that sealed their friendship and steered the course of World War II.
Judy Moody: Twice as Moody
by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
Any kid who's ever been in a bad mood will relate to the feisty, funny, ever-changing Judy Moody. Jump-start a young reader's collection with this super-cool combo of the third-grader's first two rollicking adventures.
Who Do You Think You Are?: Be a Family Tree Detective
by Dan Waddell
This compelling activity book gives kids the tools to investigate, discover, and preserve family heritage.
For Big Kids
Around the World
by Matt Phelan
Graphic novelist Phelan weaves a trio of epic journeys into a single bold tale of three visionaries who set their sights on nothing short of the world.
Bluefish
by Pat Schmatz
Thirteen-year-old Travis has a secret: He can't read. But a shrewd teacher and a sassy girl are about to change everything in this witty and deeply moving novel.
The Flint Heart
by Katherine and John Paterson, illustrated by John Rocco
This humorous, hearty, utterly delightful fairy tale is the kind an entire family can savor together or adventurous young readers can devour before they're forced to turn out the lights.
A Year Without Autumn
by Liz Kessler
A gripping tale about a girl who stumbles into the future — and must change its course to save a friendship.
Get more great ideas for your grandkids' education from Grandparents.com:
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