Isabella (5) and Mallory (4) have gotten to the point now where they love chapter books. I think it was two years ago when we started the Little House on the Prairie series. It astounded me how much they retained at such a young age, so I made it a point to continue to incorporate longer books into our reading times. Since then we've finished that series, read Ballet Shoes, Charlotte's Web, and the Pippi Longstocking series
As I was researching curriculum for our schooling decision this year, one thing that I loved about so many curricula was the read aloud book list they had for each grade. Even though we enrolled Isabella in school this year, I wanted to keep reading to the girls each day. It can be a bit overwhelming trying to decide where to begin, so I just went off of Sonlight's book list for Kindergarten and First grades.
I made a list of all the books they recommended. My mom told me about Thriftbooks, an online used bookstore. There are lots of used book options out there, for sure, but I have enjoyed Thriftbooks because they have free shipping. The books ship within 4-14 business days, so if you need something right away, this probably isn't your best option. We have no time restraints, so it was worth it to me to wait awhile and save money on shipping. They didn't have all of the books on the lists, so I have my running list and will continue to check back as time goes on.
What are your favorite books to read to your kids? Any recommendations for places to purchase used books?
So thankful I came across your blog today! I also have four wee ones and I have two school age that are homeschooled. I LOVE reading and want to share that love with them, but am really finding it difficult to find chapter books that are entertaining while still being appropriate. I will check out the sunlight list, it may be just what I've been searching for!
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I hope that list will help! Happy reading :)
DeleteThis is so fun! I can't wait to check out that website. We use the Sonlight list too! We're also very into the American Girl books right now from the earlier history periods. I was hesitant to start Amie on them because those dolls are a racket, but I love the history they're learning (Judah enjoys them too!), and actually don't even mind so much that she's saving up for a doll now. They're good quality and I love that her favorites are the old-fashioned ones.
ReplyDeleteI had forgotten about the American Girl books. Isabella and Mallory would LOVE those! And, I have always wanted them to 'earn' a doll, so maybe this will help with that incentive.
DeleteI have found thrift stores to be a great source for inexpensive quality books. Goodwill especially seems to have a great selection. Our local DAV thrift store in VA even had kid's books for $0.10 & $0.25!! When they increased them to $0.5 & $0.50, I felt like the price was so high...I'd gotten really used to getting armloads for just a few dollars at a time! Also, I'd encourage you to get connected with some local homeschool groups. As you know, HSers are often a terrific source for great books...esp. if you can find out when their curriculum sales/swaps are...the same with children's consignment sales. Oh, and dont forget about buying books, esp. by the lot, on ebay.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Amy, for the great idea! I don't frequent thrift stores right now with all of my kids in tow, but maybe I need to start....those prices sound pretty good!
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