I think it is really important to consider this question when we are introducing children to books and to reading. Children, as we all know, are the masters of “Why?”; so before any lesson or experience, we should be ready with an answer to this very valid question.

Sometimes we read to learn: directions to create something new or to learn about a place or a person. Sometimes we read “because we have to”: an assignment, or a list of repairs and costs from your mechanic. And sometimes we read for fun: our old (and new) favorites, and no interruptions, please! Reading is a means to an end, but what about the experience itself?

What are we conveying to our children when we tell them to read? Are we focusing on the “work” of reading: the precise recommended number of minutes or pages, the need to master reading to succeed? Or do we present the fun side of reading: the ability to step outside of our day-to-day life and be as serious or as silly as we want — to explore our own world as well as fantastical other universes? Reading IS important. Reading, and reading well, will help a child succeed.   But today, research now shows us the importance “play” is for child development, and how fun can impact learning.

Maybe it’s time for us all to step back and remember that a child who is having fun will want to continue it. Maybe it’s time for us all to remember the fun parts of reading.   Here is a selection of materials that I have found that are fun reads, for adults and kids. All of these are great stories to share with a group or one-on-one with a little one you know.