I remember very well my time as a primary school student. And what I have most in mind is the books they sent us reading at school out of obligation on vacation (either Christmas, Easter or Summer). It didn't matter: there was always a reading on the to-do list. A reading that you had to do yes or yes because when you came back you used to take a reading comprehension test that you had to pass to continue with the course.
It didn't matter whether you liked the book or not. It didn't matter if the reading was interesting, fun, adventurous, or enjoyable. Come on, you almost had to read the book from memory as if it were a textbook to prepare for the exam. But nothing could be done: most of the centers had the objectives of having the students read four books and that was what was done (obviously without having the opinion of the students.)
Personally, I think that reading should not be started as something mandatory but rather as ana playful, interesting, fun and exciting activity for children. It is they who have to discover the pleasure of reading and not others who force them. For this reason, today it occurred to me to cite some children's books that I know first-hand that the little ones have loved and have discovered with them the pleasure of reading.
For children from 3 to 6 years
-The magic of colors by Ricardo Alcántara and Carambuco Editorial. A reading that for me encourages creativity and originality in the little ones. Mariana, who is the protagonist of the book, will discover that colors are not only colors but that they can transport us to memories, smells or emotions. In addition, the book is accompanied by a DVD in which you will find thea sign language interpretation. A reading that takes diversity into account. What more could you want? Highly recommended!
-It's not a box by Antoinette Portis and Editorial Faktoria K de Libros. A book that encourages butt the imagination of the smallest. Through the illustrations, the author shows us the gaze of a child and that of an adult. Perhaps for the elderly a box is a simple cardboard object but they can transform it into a lot of different and fun things for them. A highly recommended reading to work on the creativity of the little ones.
-What color is a kiss? by RocÃo Bonilla and Editorial Algar. On many occasions, children find it difficult to understand all those things that they cannot touch such as sensations and emotions. What Minimoni, the protagonist of the book, does is relate those sensations and emotions with colors. This makes it easier for you to understand and identify them. A reading that the little ones love and laugh a lot with the illustrations.
For children from 6 to 9 years
-Inspector Drilo's emotionometer by Susana Isern and Editorial Nubeocho. A comprehensive guide to help children understand, identify and know your emotions with a very attractive and funny person: Inspector Drilo. A basic reading and highly recommended to promote emotional education.
-Is there anything more boring than being a pink princess? by Raquel DÃaz Reguera and Thule Ediciones. For me at these ages, a book that encourages education in values, gender equality and opportunities and away from stereotypes. Carlota, the protagonist of the book, tells us that she does not want to be a pink princess but different and live adventures, discover experiences and rescue a prince in distress. Without a doubt, a highly recommended reading to work on gender equality and coeducation.
-The girl with the patch in the city of forgotten colors by Silvia Guirado when we have the information. In this fantastic book the protagonist is Carmesina, a girl who lives in a city where colors have been forgotten. This event will give you the opportunity to repaint your life and the city again. A reading that encourages overcoming obstacles, optimism, courage, initiative and positivism. In addition, it supports children to pursue their own dreams and develop their talents.
For children from 9 to 12 years
-I'm not perfect by Jimmy Liao and Bárbara Fiore Editora. Perfect Nueno has discovered that she is tired of being a perfect girl. A perfect reading to make children see that making mistakes, making mistakes and stumbling is something that makes us human and that on many occasions these errors and stumbles are necessary to keep moving forward. A book that supports the personal identity of each one and highly recommended for these ages.
-The College of Magical Animals by Margit Auer and Edelvives Editorial. Ida and Benni are the protagonists of this wonderful fantasy book. Ida is new to school and Benni is not very good at making friends. They will be the first lucky ones to meet their teacher Miss Cornfield's magical animals. An entertaining, different and original reading highly recommended.
-Where the sun is born by Federico Villalobos and Ediciones SM. A novel that reveals to children of these ages the fascinating world of Greek mythology. An enjoyable read, full of adventures and that will undoubtedly hook readers. A highly recommended book to introduce the humanities to children in an active, meaningful and interesting way.
Which ones would you add?