Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes
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SALT LAKE CITY — Reading aloud is a skill — one that needs to be practiced and one that helps improve reading, speaking, comprehension, vocabulary and many other skills. This important ability starts in younger kids who are learning to read but is mastered by older elementary school age kids, ages 8-12.
Shelly Harris, a reading expert and teacher, said, “Oral reading is critical even after kids become good readers. This is a skill that must be practiced; all fluency testing is done orally. Sit with your child for a portion of their reading time and make sure they are reading accurately, with expression and that they understand what they have read."
This summer, take time to sit together and take turns reading — you read some aloud, they read some aloud. Listening to you read aloud demonstrates the skill, reading aloud for himself employs the skill. Not only will your child be improving his reading and speaking, but it’s a great way to get in some one-on-one time. Here are six fun, entertaining books you will both enjoy.
Fiction
“Out of My Mind” by Sharon M. Draper
Melody can’t walk or talk, but she does have a photographic memory and an indomitable spirit. She is smarter than all the kids in her school class and most of the adults who try to teach and diagnose her. The problem is no one knows it.
This meaningful story of a girl with cerebral palsy, winner of the 2012 Utah Beehive Book Award for young readers, will leave an impression on both of you.
"Kingdom Keepers: Disney After Dark” by Ridley Pearson
If your child is a Disney fan or loves fantasy, then this series is a perfect choice. The book’s brilliant premise of five young teens charged with protecting Disney World from a band of storybook villains, such as Maleficent and Captain Hook, who are trying to destroy the park, is highly imaginative, magical and action-packed. A thrilling read for any age.
“True (… Sort Of)” by Katherine Hannigan
Katherine Hannigan, author of the award-winning “Ida B,” has crafted a touching and compelling story of friendship and truth in her latest novel. Delly Pattison loves surpresents (surprise presents) and is hoping to get one soon. When the Boyds come to town, Delly and her friend Brud meet Ferris Boyd, who is a real mystruosity (a very curious mystery). Together they discover what having friends is all about and what truth really means.
Nonfiction
“Candy Bomber: The Story of the Berlin Airlift’s ‘Chocolate Pilot’ ” by Michael O. Tunnell
This nonfiction title is an interesting, happy World War II story written by Brigham Young University children’s literature professor Michael O. Tunnell. It is also the winner of the 2012 Utah Beehive Book Award for informational books. With age-appropriate text and an engaging collection of photographs, letters and drawings, the story of U.S. Air Force pilot Gail Halvorsen, who dropped packages of candy to the children of ruined Berlin, is a pure delight.
“Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart” by Candace Fleming
Seventy-five years ago, Amelia Earhart flew her plane out over the ocean in an attempt to be the first woman to fly around the world. She was never heard from again. In this biography, author Candace Fleming offers a fresh and detailed look at the pilot’s life from childhood to her famous flight. As an added bonus, perfect for curious kids, the narrative includes engaging sidebars like what Amelia liked to eat while flying (tomato soup). The book includes a stunning collection of photographs, maps and hand- written notes by Earhart.
“Charles Dickens and the Street Children of London” by Andrea Warren
Charles Dickens wrote to foster social change. His epic novels were the result of horrors he witnessed during his own childhood on the streets of 19th century London. He hoped his stories would help change some of the social injustices of the poor, especially for the poor children. This thought- provoking biography will not only introduce the famous author to your child but inspire meaningful conversations.
Book calendarOrem Library: Hosting author Erin Thomas, "Coal in Our Veins: A Personal Journey," June 28, 7 p.m., 58 N. State, Orem.
Provo City Library: Hosting lots of fun summer reading events. Visit the website for all the details.
Ken Sander's Rare Books: Hosting poet Christopher Leibow, "Babel," June 29, 7 p.m., 268 S. 200 East, Salt Lake City.
The King's English Bookshop: Hosting several book and author events. Visit the shop's website for all the information.
Weller Book Works: Hosting author Erin Thomas, "Coal in Our Veins: A Personal Journey," June 30, 7 p.m., 607 Trolley Square, Salt Lake City.
Check your local library for more fun summer reading events.
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*Teri Harman writes and reads from home amid the chaos of three young children. Her bi-weekly column, Book Matters, appears on ksl.com. She also contributes a monthly book club segment to Studio 5. For more book fun, visit book- matters.com**
