Alicia64 Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 The last three books I've picked have not worked for one reason or another. We read a lot so most of the usual books have been read like Charlotte's Web, Trumpet of the Swan etc. etc. Can you recommend a read aloud that your kids LOVED that isn't in most of the read aloud lists on WTM forums? THANKS! Alley Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jessicalb Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Not sure what is on the regular lists, but these are some of my favorites: Maniac Magee Freak the Mighty Tuck Everlasting Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OrdinaryTime Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 We are reading The Castle in the Attic right now, and the kids are loving it, especially my son. I don't see it on here too often. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jar7709 Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Nim's Island. It is short but rich and my kids *loved*it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OrdinaryTime Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Also, The Invention of Hugo Cabret was a great read lately. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
creekmom Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 The Candy Shop War - http://www.amazon.com/The-Candy-Shop-Brandon-Mull/dp/1590389700/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1347553309&sr=8-1&keywords=the+candy+shop+war - A new candy store in town has magic candy - rock candy that makes you weightless, jawbreakers that make you unbreakable, chocolate balls that disquise you... My boys loved this story (girls did too)! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sagira Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Not sure how old your kids are, but ds9 and I are both enjoying I, Juan de Pareja. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KristenR Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 My kids loved (and still talk about it today) when we read Tum Tum and Nutmeg. You can read my more detailed post about it here and see if it's something you might enjoy. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
eclecticschooler Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 We love the books that Wendy Mass writes. We have never been disappointed in them as read alouds. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ellie Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Hurry Home, Candy. Warning: I cry at the end every.single.time., but it's worth the read. Time at the Top, and All in Good Time. Fun. :-) The Rescuers (not Disney). OOP, worth looking for. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mrs.m Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 A Series of Unfortunate Events. It's dark but my kids loved it! Even better if you can get the audio of Tim Curry narrating. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
crazyforlatin Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Where the Mountain Meets the Moon Guardians of Ga'hoole Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
boscopup Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 My kids actually listened to Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIHM. A new book we liked recently was A Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom. Funny story. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
amsunshine Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 The Willoughbys, by Lois Lowry. This book is so charming and hilarious! I've never seen it mentioned by anyone else. (We also loved the Lemony Snicket series) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
alef Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 My family loves Momo by Michael Ende. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Plink Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 The White Giraffe series by Lauren St. John has been a hit around here. It combines my DD's love of nature and my DS's love of adventure. It is similar to Nim's Island, which a pp mentioned. That was another one we really enjoyed. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MeaganS Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 (edited) The Pushcart War- seriously one of my favorite books of all time. I even wrote a paper on it in a college poli sci class. The Westing Game Edited September 13, 2012 by MeaganS Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sagira Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 My kids actually listened to Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIHM. Ds loved that one! Especially when it's read by Brendan Fraser. I thought Mrs. Frisby was pretty common, that's why I didn't mention it. We loved Dragon Rider too. Ds9 bought Inkheart, by the same author, with his summer reading money. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jenangelcat Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 We're working through this list. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mamatohaleybug Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Some recent favorites: Snow Treasure Lily's Crossing Frindle Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Julie Smith Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 The last three books I've picked have not worked for one reason or another.We read a lot so most of the usual books have been read like Charlotte's Web, Trumpet of the Swan etc. etc. Can you recommend a read aloud that your kids LOVED that isn't in most of the read aloud lists on WTM forums? THANKS! Alley Not often listed by should be loved by your two nine year old boys. "Thor's Wedding Day" by Bruce Coville. What could possibly make Thor--the massive and mighty god of thunder and protector of all his people--put on a bridal gown? It all begins when the source of Thor's power, his beloved hammer, is stolen. The plan to get it back requires that he dress in fancy finery and be packed off to marry the king of the giants. Luckily, Thialfi, the goat boy, comes along. Working behind the scenes, Thialfi just might save the day . . . which is only fair, because it's his fault the hammer was stolen in the first place. http://www.amazon.com/Thors-Wedding-Day-Thialfi-translated/dp/0152058729/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1347565087&sr=8-1&keywords=Thor%27s+Wedding+Day (Amazon has a look inside feature for this book) I also highly recommend the audio version. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Julie Smith Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 I have seen this one recommened once before, but only once Poppy by Avi http://www.amazon.com/Poppy-Stories-Avi/dp/0380727692/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1347565188&sr=1-1&keywords=Poppy+avi (Look inside feature at amazon so you can look at the first few pages) At the very edge of Dimwood Forest stood an old charred oak where, silhouetted by the moon, a great horned owl sat waiting. The owls name was Mr. Ocax, and he looked like death himself. With his piercing gaze, he surveyed the lands he called his own, watching for the creatures he considered his subjects. Not one of them ever dared to cross his path. . .until the terrible night when two little mice went dancing in the moonlight. . . This is part of a series, which we have read through more then twice. I heard that an audio version does exist, but I never tired it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
walkermamaof4 Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 If you don't have it, it is worth purchasing any copy, older edition or newer, of The Read-aloud Handbook. It also makes a great gift for a baby shower I think. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AppleGreen Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 The Seven Wonders of Sassafrass Springs was wonderful! Frindle Tumtum and Nutmeg is very cute. The elder boy and I just started Swallows and Amazons and it shows great promise. Dealing With Dragons Gone Away Lake was fun. The Trolly Car Children was cute. The Moffets series I just picked up the series The Saturdays Clearly we enjoy old stories! Happy reading. :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
crazyforlatin Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 I have seen this one recommened once before, but only once Poppy by Avi http://www.amazon.com/Poppy-Stories-Avi/dp/0380727692/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1347565188&sr=1-1&keywords=Poppy+avi (Look inside feature at amazon so you can look at the first few pages) At the very edge of Dimwood Forest stood an old charred oak where, silhouetted by the moon, a great horned owl sat waiting. The owls name was Mr. Ocax, and he looked like death himself. With his piercing gaze, he surveyed the lands he called his own, watching for the creatures he considered his subjects. Not one of them ever dared to cross his path. . .until the terrible night when two little mice went dancing in the moonlight. . . This is part of a series, which we have read through more then twice. I heard that an audio version does exist, but I never tired it. DD seems to like any book by Avi such as Magic at Midnight, Murder at Midnight, and Crispin series. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
crazyforlatin Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 I suppose Blue Balliett's books, which combine art, history, and math. But I can't say I want to read aloud another one after the first one. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Cassy Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Wild Stories, Colin Thompson Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JenneinCA Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Twenty One Balloons Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Julie Smith Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 DD seems to like any book by Avi such as Magic at Midnight, Murder at Midnight, and Crispin series. The Avi books, "Magic at Midnight" and "Murder at Midnight" are the only ones available at my library in audio. What is your opinion on them. My boys don't like books with tension. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jilly Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 My 9-year-old's favorite book right now is Freddy the Detective. :001_smile: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
prairiegirl Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Bud, Not Buddy is one of my ds's favorite books of all time and The World of Og (that is not the actual title-can't remember the real title) but it is similar to it) by Pierre Berton. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
besroma Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 All on a Mountain Day by Fisher The Coral Island by Ballantyne Jungle Doctor series (Christian) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
serendipitous journey Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 (edited) Tucker's Countryside is the sequel to Cricket in Times Square. Button just loved it -- we read for over an hour to finish the last section one night. I preferred Cricket, to be honest; but it meets the thread's topic of a Fabulous Read Aloud Not Often Listed. Also, if it doesn't fret your theology, around Christmas you could do The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus by L. Frank Baum (that version illustrated by Michael Hague). It completely skirts the Christ-centeredness of Christmas, and is a story of a child (who grows to be Santa Claus) found and fostered by wood-fairies; it is full of fairies & such. I mention it b/c I gave a copy to a Muslim friend who uses a lot of Waldorf, because it is the most wonderful nymph/fairy-story I know; but she didn't feel clear to read it to her child b/c she teaches Christmas according to Islamic tradition. If you are Christian and also use fairy tales, I should think it would be fine. Edited September 13, 2012 by serendipitous journey Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Julie Smith Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Tucker's Countryside is the sequel to Cricket in Times Square. Button just loved it -- we read for over an hour to finish the last section one night. I preferred Cricket, to be honest; but it meets the thread's topic of a Fabulous Read Aloud Not Often Listed. Youngest loved, "Cricket in Times Square" and was so sad that it ended with the characters not together. So I got him the prequel and sequel of the book. Both boys thought "Tuckers country side" was okay, but not good enough to read the books following it. No one enjoyed the prequel to "A cricket in times square" which was called, "Harry Kitten and Tucker Mouse". It was more like an undeveloped chapter book. I could easily tell why that book is out of print. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chris in VA Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Coraline. Sooo creepy, but delicious. Anything by Sid Fleischman. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FairProspects Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Also, The Invention of Hugo Cabret was a great read lately. The boys loved this one. My top choice would probably be Over Sea, Under Stone. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Shelsi Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 George Washington's Socks, which fits nicely into history if you're doing that period of time. Ds LOVED it. Bunnicula was a favorite here too - it's a super quick read though but I loved how intelligently written it was. There were loads of "big" words that helped to expand ds's vocabulary for sure. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
serendipitous journey Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Youngest loved, "Cricket in Times Square" and was so sad that it ended with the characters not together. So I got him the prequel and sequel of the book. Both boys thought "Tuckers country side" was okay, but not good enough to read the books following it. No one enjoyed the prequel to "A cricket in times square" which was called, "Harry Kitten and Tucker Mouse". It was more like an undeveloped chapter book. I could easily tell why that book is out of print. It may be that the popularity of Tucker's Countryside is peculiar to our household (or just to Button!) He cried at the end of Cricket, b/c Chester left New York for the great unknown Connecticut, and it became a matter of some urgency to find the sequel and reassure him that life continued in the Chester Universe ... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
crazyforlatin Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 The Avi books, "Magic at Midnight" and "Murder at Midnight" are the only ones available at my library in audio. What is your opinion on them. My boys don't like books with tension. There is definitely more tension in the above books than in Thor's Wedding Day, which according to Dd is very funny. She's about the same age as your kids. I wonder if your kids would like Guardians of Ga'hoole. The author seems to have done extensive research on owls and they are incorporated into the characters' personalities. I'm actually surprised how much science Dd is learning about owls. However, these are more adventure novels than Burgess' books, which I know you've already read aloud to your kids. There is tension, but I can't say it's to the extent of being scary. From your read aloud list, I think your kids may enjoy this series. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
crazyforlatin Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 It may be that the popularity of Tucker's Countryside is peculiar to our household (or just to Button!) He cried at the end of Cricket, b/c Chester left New York for the great unknown Connecticut, and it became a matter of some urgency to find the sequel and reassure him that life continued in the Chester Universe ... There were definitely mixed emotions for Dd after the first book, but I forgot to borrow the sequel. Oops. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
crazyforlatin Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 I just remembered that we had a read aloud a few weeks ago of Ben and Me. Loved it! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Julie Smith Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 It may be that the popularity of Tucker's Countryside is peculiar to our household (or just to Button!) He cried at the end of Cricket, b/c Chester left New York for the great unknown Connecticut, and it became a matter of some urgency to find the sequel and reassure him that life continued in the Chester Universe ... That is the same reason we got, "Tucker's Country Side". We enjoyed it, but it didn't have the magic of, "A Cricket in times square". There is definitely more tension in the above books than in Thor's Wedding Day, which according to Dd is very funny. She's about the same age as your kids. I wonder if your kids would like Guardians of Ga'hoole. The author seems to have done extensive research on owls and they are incorporated into the characters' personalities. I'm actually surprised how much science Dd is learning about owls. However, these are more adventure novels than Burgess' books, which I know you've already read aloud to your kids. There is tension, but I can't say it's to the extent of being scary. From your read aloud list, I think your kids may enjoy this series. Now I feel well know. Since I didn't even start this thread, or mention in it anywhere that my kids like Burgess books. I admit I am typing up a word document listing our first 500 read alouds and what my kids thought of them. I'm also including when we read them, and how many times we have read each book. Perhaps I'll look into Guardians of Ga'hoole next time I'm looking for more books to add to our might read list. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
crazyforlatin Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Now I feel well know. Since I didn't even start this thread, or mention in it anywhere that my kids like Burgess books. I admit I am typing up a word document listing our first 500 read alouds and what my kids thought of them. I'm also including when we read them, and how many times we have read each book. Perhaps I'll look into Guardians of Ga'hoole next time I'm looking for more books to add to our might read list. Ater you posted that list (was 400 books?), you inspired me to do the same. I wish I had started years ago, but now I'm working from faulty memory and typing up a list. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Julie Smith Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Ater you posted that list (was 400 books?), you inspired me to do the same. I wish I had started years ago, but now I'm working from faulty memory and typing up a list. Once I'm done writing out my list of our first 500 read alouds with comments by my kids - I'll post it. But only if you promise to respond so I know I'll get at least once response. PS. Sorry for stealing your thread Alley. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
crazyforlatin Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 Once I'm done writing out my list of our first 500 read alouds with comments by my kids - I'll post it. But only if you promise to respond so I know I'll get at least once response. PS. Sorry for stealing your thread Alley. What?!?! No one responded to that thread! I think all of us dropped what we were doing that day and started up a list. :D. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Julie Smith Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 What?!?! No one responded to that thread! I think all of us dropped what we were doing that day and started up a list. :D. No, I haven't posted that thread, since we are only at 490 books read. But I will be posting it soon, and you better respond or else. .... ... or else you wouldn't get the pleasure of responding. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jenn&charles Posted September 13, 2012 Share Posted September 13, 2012 No, I haven't posted that thread, since we are only at 490 books read. But I will be posting it soon, and you better respond or else. .... ... or else you wouldn't get the pleasure of responding. :bigear: I'm responding before you post it so you'll post it. Consider this your pre-post response. So...post it. Ok? ;) I'm waiting! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
crazyforlatin Posted September 14, 2012 Share Posted September 14, 2012 No, I haven't posted that thread, since we are only at 490 books read. But I will be posting it soon, and you better respond or else. .... ... or else you wouldn't get the pleasure of responding. :lol: For sure! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jenn&charles Posted September 14, 2012 Share Posted September 14, 2012 Here is a series my kids LOVED. I've read it out loud twice now: The Tripod series by John Christopher Here's the first book: The White Mountains Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
crazyforlatin Posted September 14, 2012 Share Posted September 14, 2012 The last three books I've picked have not worked for one reason or another.We read a lot so most of the usual books have been read like Charlotte's Web, Trumpet of the Swan etc. etc. Can you recommend a read aloud that your kids LOVED that isn't in most of the read aloud lists on WTM forums? THANKS! Alley Oh I just saw in your siggy that you're reading aloud Lin's book. I recommended it in a previous post without reading your siggy. What about Chabon's Summerland? Dd loved that one so much that we had to read it aloud a few times. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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