Are These 5 Books on Your Children’s Reading List?

Are These 5 Books on Your Children’s Reading List?

I’m a book junkie.  I have piles of books, stacked and stacked all over the house.  Usually, I stumble upon a book or two while trying to find something else and down the rabbit hole I go.  The perfect gift for me a book.  You want to make my day or birthday?  Give me a book.  A few weeks ago, someone gave me a they thought I might enjoy about the Scottish Covenanters and it made my day!

I’m a firm believer that the greatest gift you can give your children is the gift of an idea.  What do I mean by that?  By cultivating an interest in reading, you open the amazing, created world we live in to your children.  When your children read they are forced to think and imagine.  Consequently, as they mature and their reading material changes, they start to think of absolutes and ideas, rather than simply about the material things that exist in our day to day lives.

I always get a kick out of kids when they say they don’t like to read because it’s boring.  That kid just hasn’t tapped into the complex world yet.  Pick any topic, any hobby, any interest and you can find a book on it.

And of course, sometimes there’s books that kids should read, regardless of whether they “like” it or not.  Not every book is entertaining or makes the reader feel warm and fuzzy.  But that’s okay.  There are certain books that should be read regardless (and your kids will probably thank you later).

Here’s 5 books that may not make your kids’ reading list (depending on where they go to school) but I’m telling you, you’ll want to have them read at some point in time.  In no particular order, they are:

1. Up From Slavery (Booker T. Washington)

Whether we like it or not, there are still racial tensions that cause divisions in our culture.  Ironically, Booker T. Washington’s name is never brought up as an African-American hero, even from his own people.  Why?  I’m not completely sure, but his story is one worth reading, knowing and emulating!  Though born into slavery, Booker T. Washington humbly worked hard and accomplished great things, including developing what is today, Tuskegee University.  What a guy!

2. Evidence Not Seen (Darlene Deibler Rose)

I came across this book at a book sale years ago and it has become one of my favorites, hands-down!  It’s a true story that takes place in the heart of a Japanese prison camp during World War II.  Darlene Deibler Rose’s faith will encourage you and your children in your own lives!  You never know what God is doing through your trials and tribulations until you look in the rearview mirror and this is a great example of that!

3. Of Plymouth Plantation (William Bradford)

Every November, I read this book in preparation for Thanksgiving.  Written by William Bradford, this book gives you the true, first-hand account of the Pilgrims that no one talks about it.  Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions about the Pilgrims but what better way to clear them up then reading a first-hand account!  I’m always encouraged by the Pilgrims faith and perseverance and you will be too!

4. Morning and Evening (Charles Spurgeon)

This is a devotional classic by the great preacher, Charles Spurgeon.  His timeless and original engagement with God’s Word is a refreshing way to begin and end each day.  I’ve used this book for many, many years and still glean, find strength and encouragement every time I read it!  A great way to start the day as a family or individually.

5. The Hiding Place (Corrie ten Boom)

You may already be familiar with this book and you should be!  This is another one of my favorite stories that I find great encouragement from.  Corrie ten Boom’s family were caught hiding Jews from the Nazi’s in their home.  They were put in concentration camps and that’s where their amazing story takes place!  After reading this book, you’ll have a completely different view on fleas and faith!

Provide your children with great heroes of faith, men and women they can emulate and be encouraged by.  Find books that will teach your children about history and faith, about perseverance, integrity, honesty, and hard work.  Find stories that will reinforce the virtues you are trying to teach your children.  Take them with you to the next library book sale or thrift store and let them explore.  Keep fueling their desire to learn and grow!