Help! I’m the mystery reader for my child’s class! Read Alouds for K-3rd Grade

Reading aloud to your child’s class can be so much fun especially if you have the perfect book! I’ve suggested just a few for each grade level, kindergarten through third grade. There are so many great books out there. Poke around on the internet and ask your children’s librarian for suggestions. Once you have a few to select from, give them a read through to see what’s the best fit for you and your child. I always like to practice a few times before I read it aloud too. 

What makes a great read aloud? I love reading aloud picture books that are interactive–that I can use to engage my audience. I also am a sucker for stories with rhyme and repetition–that helps with the engagement, frequently allowing the listeners to repeat the refrain along with me. 

And remember–if you’re the reader, embrace the silly! Show enthusiasm for the story and for being with your child’s class, and they will adore you. Last year I read aloud to my son’s then third grade class and his teacher snapped a picture of him watching me and the joyful look on his face was priceless. 

Want to read more about reading aloud? Here are two great articles: 

10 Tips Experienced Teachers Have on Read-Alouds for New Teachers from Scholastic

The Must-Have Picture Books for Great Read-Aloud Performances with Your Kids from Brightly

And now on to the titles…

Kindergarten:

Leonardo, the Terrible Monster by Mo Willems 

You Will Be My Friend! by Peter Brown

First Grade: 

The Recess Queen by Alexis O’Neill (Author) and Laura Huliska-Beith (Illustrator)

Bubble Gum, Bubble Gum by Lisa Wheeler (Author) and Laura Huliska-Beith (Illustrator)

Second Grade:

Monster Trouble! by Lane Fredrickson (Author) and Michael Robertson (Illustrator)

The Three Little Superpigs by Claire Evans

Third Grade:

The Incredible Book Eating Boy by Oliver Jeffers

Enemy Pie by Derek Munson

Wishing you many happy reading experiences!



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About Me

Welcome! I started my career as a children’s librarian, later becoming a public library director and now I’m a stay at home mom. While my career might have changed, my love of reading has been a constant since I was in 4th grade, and I read over 200 books a year. I love talking about books and connecting readers of all ages with just the right book. Thanks for reading!