MOTY notes

Kid’s Chapter Books

I include graphic novels in this list.  Strong and fun images really reinforce stories and engage kids.  And besides, they’re just awesome.  Also, if you are looking to expand vocabulary – comics and graphic novels are great; or should I say “stupendous” for that.

The Strange Case of Origami Yoda by Tom Angleberger – If you are looking for chapter books, pick this one up.  It’s hysterical and original.  My son can’t stop reading it.  Funny and engaging stories about kids’ lives at school, and the unlikely, but wise, Origami Yoda who is there to help.   Read this one, you must.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl – The book was written in 1964 and is pretty different from the well-known “Willy Wonka” movies.  In fact, the Ooompa-Loompas are not nearly as restrained in their judgements in the book as they are in the films.  But I’d be maniacal too if I were used to test follicle-altering candy.  And my youngest is very concerned that Veruca Salt may never recover from being tossed into a garbage chute by mad squirrels.  Fortunately, my oldest has reassured us that it’s only a story – and a delicious one at that.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney – My son is cracking up reading this book.  He loves it.  If you have a kid who’s into chapter books, it’s a guaranteed hit.  It speaks in kid language, and that’s what makes it an awesome read.

Franklin Richards: Son of a Genius – Ultimate Collection by Chris Eliopoulos and Marc Sumerak – Excellent graphic novel from Marvel.  It’s a series that’s been compiled into this collection.  It’s the story of a young boy who is part scientist/part menace/part awesome. He and his robot companion H.E.R.B.I.E. find all sorts of trouble to get into and out of.  Franklin is the son of The Fantastic Four’s Reed Richards and Susan Storm.  It’s smart, funny, engaging, and totally age appropriate for elementary age kids.  (Graphic Novels and Comic Books – kinda my favorite for my kids.)

Babymouse by Jennifer Holm and Matthew Holm (Series) Mouse adventures that my son loves. Part book, part comic, part adventure, and written by a brother and sister team.  Which gives me hope that my kids will someday get along.

Mercy Watson by Kate DiCamillo and Chris Van Dusen – (Series) Great first chapter books.  My son loves the adventures of this porcine wonder.

Lunch Lady by Jarrett J. Krosoczka – (Series) Tales of cyborg substitutes and bake-sale bandits.  Fun, great graphic novel for kids new to chapter books.  Lots of action, lots of silliness, and did I mention cyborgs?  I grabbed this one at the library the other day for my 7 yo son.  He LOVES it.