What’s better than reading a great book? Picking up another one that starts right where it left off.
If you’re a book lover, you probably had a favorite book series growing up. When I was a kid, all my friends were reading Harry Potter, Warriors, Divergent, and we couldn’t wait for the next books to come out. Being immersed in a great series is not just fun for kids, it’s also a great way to improve literacy skills and enthusiasm for reading from an early age.
Studies show that exposure to book series motivates reluctant young readers, increases reading time, and improves language skills. Here are some of our favorite book series brought to you by The On The Same Page Boston Team:
"The Penderwicks" by Jeanne Birdsall
This series follows the four Penderwick sisters—Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty—as they navigate adventures and misadventures during their summer vacations. Each sister has her own unique personality, and the series explores themes of family, friendship, and growing up.
"Amari and the Night Brothers" by B.B. Alston
Amari, a young Black girl, discovers a magical world while searching for her missing brother. She joins a summer camp for magical kids, facing challenges and uncovering secrets about her family. The series blends fantasy with themes of identity and empowerment.
"Dragon Pearl" by Yoon Ha Lee (part of the "Star Wars: The High Republic" series)
This adventure follows Min, a young girl with the ability to shapeshift, as she seeks her missing brother in a galaxy filled with space pirates and ancient mysteries. The story draws on Korean mythology and emphasizes themes of family and bravery.
"The Last Kids on Earth" by Max Brallier
This series features a group of kids who band together to survive a monster apocalypse. Characters come from diverse backgrounds, and the series is filled with humor, adventure, and themes of friendship and resilience.
"The Jumbies" by Tracey Baptiste
Set in Trinidad, this series follows Corinne, a brave girl who faces mystical creatures known as Jumbies. Inspired by Caribbean folklore, the stories delve into themes of courage, identity, and cultural heritage.
"Ellie Ultra" by Gina Bellisario
Ellie, a superhero with unique powers, balances her life as a normal girl and a crime-fighter. The series tackles issues of fitting in and embracing one’s true self, showcasing a diverse range of characters.
"The Princess in Black" by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale
This series features a young princess who fights monsters while maintaining her royal duties. The books combine humor and adventure, celebrating themes of bravery and breaking gender stereotypes.
"Arlo Finch" by John August
Arlo Finch moves to a small town in Colorado and discovers a secret society of kids who explore magical realms. The series highlights themes of friendship, courage, and the importance of community.
"Sunny" by Jason Reynolds
Part of the "Track" series, this book focuses on Sunny, a young boy with a passion for dance and a complex family background. The series explores themes of identity, friendship, and the challenges of growing up.
"The Zoe and Sassafras" series by Asia Citro
This series features a young girl named Zoe and her talking cat, Sassafras, as they solve problems using science and magic. The stories are inclusive, celebrating creativity and curiosity in a diverse world.
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