Some kids are naturally drawn to reading and books. They can’t wait for the latest Percy Jackson or Wimpy Kid title to come across, or they revisit Harry Potter and Magic Treehouse tomes over and over again.
And then there are some kids who come to reading (and writing) reluctantly. And with so many screen diversions, it can be difficult to get kids to settle down with a book, even if it’s on a screen.
Luckily, there are more ways to engage young readers than ever before. Vermont Moms recently listed a few tried-and-true ways to raise kids who love to read. And there are more…
For example, The Story Pirates, known for their multiple award-winning podcast and performances which capture kids’ amazing stories and turn them into hilarious sketch comedy, have launched new virtual book club for kids with Random House Children’s Books. The interactive book club will enable children and their families to discover and engage with award-winning authors, including familiar and beloved New York Times bestsellers like Mary Pope Osborne (Magic Tree House), in addition to exciting middle-grade debuts like H. D. Hunter (Futureland: Battle for the Park) and Misa Sugiura (Momo Arashima Steals the Sword of the Wind). Book selections will span a variety of genres and feature stories that will interest and entertain young readers.
Included with Book Club registration is a copy of the featured title and access to two exclusive livestreams, held on Saturdays at 1–2 pm ET/10–11 am PT, where members can connect with fellow readers from across the country. The first event, which will be led by professional Story Pirates teaching artists and performers, will feature interactive activities and games inspired by the book of the month. The second event will be an exclusive class and Q&A with the author—a chance for Book Club members to engage directly with the writers, learn about their creative processes, and ask questions about their books. At the end of each month, participants will also be able to submit a book review with the chance to have it featured on the Story Pirates’ website and social media. Here is the upcoming lineup during February to July 2023:
FEBRUARY: Adventure Book Club
Futureland: Battle for the Park by H. D. Hunter; illustrated by Khadijah Khatib . Livestreams on February 11 & 18
MARCH: Graphic Novel Book Club
Witches of Brooklyn by Sophie Escabasse
Livestreams on March 11 & 18
APRIL:
Fantasy Book Club
Momo Arashima Steals the Sword of the Wind by Misa Sugiura
Livestreams on April 15 & 22
MAY: Mystery Book Club
Chester Keene Cracks the Code by Kekla Magoon
Livestreams on May 13 & 20
JUNE: Adventure Book Club
Magic Tree House #37: Rhinos at Recess by Mary Pope Osborne; illustrated by AG Ford
Livestreams on June 10 & 17
JULY: Superhero Book Club with Illustrator Spotlight
Superworld: Save Noah by Yarrow and Carrie Cheney
Livestreams on July 8 & 15
PJ Library also offers lots of cool reading and creativity resources for families raising kids in the Jewish tradition. Each month, PJ Library mails out more than 270,000 children’s books for free to subscribers around North America. Anyone may access the book suggestions and other resources for free by visiting PJLibrary.org.
And, enjoy two story-based podcasts for kids by PJ Library Presents: Afternoons with Mimi (for preschoolers) and Beyond the Bookcase (for older kids). These two podcasts bring Jewish traditions, culture, holidays and values to life each month. Both stream on most podcast platforms.
