Yes, ask us!

The fun part of our job in the Youth Services Department is when parents ask us for suggestions of books to read aloud to their children. They are looking for books that have more text than simple picture books do, and for older listeners a book to be read over a few days or weeks is usually more appealing.

Our first step is to conduct a short interview. 1. Have you read other books aloud to your child(ren)? 2. If so, what are some titles your child(ren) have enjoyed? These questions helps us identify your child’s interest and listening ability.

For preschool children some favorite picture book read alouds that offer a longer storyline include: Bartholomew and the Oobleck by Dr. Seuss, Sylvester and the Magic Pebble by William Steig, Anatole by Eve Titus, Tacky the Penguin by Helen Lester, or anything by Bill Peet.

We take delight in introducing children to their first foray into chapter books. It takes a new set of listening skills as the story is propelled using text and very few pictures. Luckily, there are a plethora of wonderful titles rich in language and memorable characters.

For those children listening to their first chapter book, some sure winners are: My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett, Jenny and the Cat Club by Esther Holden Averill, and Sophie's Snail by Dick King-Smith.

As children become comfortable with fewer pictures try A Cricket in Times Square by George Selden, Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, The Little House books by Laura Ingalls Wilder, The Rescuers by Margery Sharp, or Mrs. Piggle Wiggle by Betty MacDonald.

When suggesting titles, the Youth Services Department makes every effort to take into consideration a book's content. Many popular series books, with their movie tie-ins, contain themes that can be too mature for children, especially young children. In addition, a steady diet of plot driven novels that offer superficial or limited character development and no rich language can make it difficult for children to focus and appreciate those stories we consider quality literature.

Books that are made to savor; stories you remember long after you've read the last page include Sarah, Plain and Tall by Sarah MacLaughlin, The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl, The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford, Mr. Popper's Penguins by Richard Atwater or anything by E. Nesbit.

Stop in any time to ask us for suggestions. Or email us: kids@scarborough.lib.me.us