By Stephanie Chan

Every once in a while, even children need a short break from reality. Whether it be the pressures of a fifth grade spelling bee, or the night before a big test, they need some time to unwind. Rather than resorting to Facebook,Twitter, or Instagram, encourage your nieces and nephews to find comfort in the realm of Narnia, Hogwarts, or Neverland.

There’s nothing like curling up in bed with a good book and a fresh cup of tea on a rainy Sunday morning. From mystery to romance, short stories to poetry, biographies to memoirs, there is a book out there for everyone. In the technological-savvy world, printed books are potentially an endangered species. However, its never too late to show your nieces and nephews the wonderful world of bound books. After all, part of the fun in reading is smelling the crisp, fresh pages, running fingers over the front cover, and finding that special home on your bookshelf for your new best friend.

With May being the official month for the “Get Caught Reading” campaign, sponsored by the Association of American Publishers (AAP),  now is the best time to take the your nieces and nephews to libraries and secondhand book stores. Introduce yourself and the kids to the local librarian - have him or her give a mini tour of the numerous sections and ask for book recommendations.

Jumpstart their summer reading with these suggested book titles:

1. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint Exupery - Stranded in a desert after a plane crash, a pilot meets the charming little prince who tells the story of his quest to find what is most important in life.

2. The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Katie DiCamillo - One day, a small china rabbit, Edward Tulane, is separated from his sweet owner, Abilene. Follow him on his long journey as he tries to find his way back home.

3. Matilda by Roald Dahl - Matilda is a girl gifted beyond her years. Unfortunately for her, she is surrounded by less than friendly adults. Watch Matilda as she uses her mental powers for good to protect her beloved teacher, Miss Honey, from the evil headmistress.

4. The Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osborne - Go on a wild adventure through time and space with this brother-sister team! From hatching dinosaur eggs to hidden treasures, every page will keep you wanting more.

5. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson - Meet Jess Aaron and Leslie Burke. Two unlikely friends who create their own magical kingdom, Terabithia.

If you need more book-spiration, here are a few children’s book lists provided by the New York Times Bestsellers, as well as the Goodreads Popular Kids Chapter Books.

Help your nieces and nephews see reading not as a chore, but as an adventure. Start your own book club with them even since reading is always more fun with a group. Have them talk about the plot line and plot twists. Have them ask questions and make predictions about the ending. Inside every book is a character they can relate to, a character they can sympathize with, a character they can’t help but fall in love with.

Photo: monkeybusinessimages
Published: Updated and republished May 3, 2017