After reading The Read-Aloud Handbook, I purchased several copies to give as baby shower gifts for new mothers because I appreciate the author's review of research on the value of reading aloud to children. However, I recommend this book with a caveat. He also provides a list and summary of books, organized by book type (picture books, short novels, novels, poetry, anthologies, and fairy and folk tales.). While the lists and summaries are helpful, there are some books or authors I would not recommend. It is reasonable to assume that a biblical perspective was not applied in the review process. It is important then, for parents to use the book list thoughtfully.
Behaviors and attitudes are modeled through story. Therefore, reading books with characters that show disrespect for others, bullying of classmates, and disobedience to authority, is often imitated by children. This is especially true if children have a steady diet of such books, without parent interaction. Sadly, some authors are more interested in the popularity of their books than the affect of their writing on a young generation. One of the benefits of reading aloud with your children is discovering those authors and series that you like, and those you want to avoid. It also gives you an opportunity to teach lessons from the story.
The take away here is that The Read-Aloud Handbook, provides a compelling argument for reading aloud to your children, which is a positive thing. However, some of the books recommended may promote behaviors and attitudes contrary to your child-rearing practices. Therefore, it is wise to review a book by an author in order to make an informed decision about whether the attitudes and conduct of the characters are ones you want your children to emulate.
Have you read some of the books on the list? Please share some of your family favorites. Happy reading!