When it comes to encouraging a love for books, my boys have certainly provided a much greater challenge than my girls. It’s the nature of the boy beast. I mean, what could be more tortuous to a little boy than being forced to take part in an activity that involves sitting down and being still?
Last month I told you about The Scrambled States of America, a fun book that can be a big help when it comes to kids learning their U. S. states. But what about chapter books? Whether you’re talking about busy boys or reluctant-to-read girls, how is a mom to develop a love for chapter books in her children? Well let me introduce you to this series from Focus on the Family.
The Imagination Station Series
If you’re familiar with the Adventures in Odyssey kids’ radio program, then you’ve heard of the Imagination Station. This time travel machine transports people to some of the most amazing events in history so they can be eyewitness to the events for themselves. The Imagination Station book series carries the same idea into book form, following characters Patrick and Beth into adventures where they relive everything from events in the Bible to episodes of the World War Two era, and they meet some fascinating historical figures along the way.
At present there are 22 books in the series, aimed at kids age 7 and up. And we own them ALL! For my boys they were a perfect introduction into chapter books — all of them just over 100 pages and very easy to read. My sons fell in love with the characters and were taken in by the suspense. (Be prepared for some cliffhangers!) Until we started reading these, most of the books my boys wanted to read were about ninjas and superheros. What a welcome change to find them interested in people like Leif Erikson and James Armistead! The history they were learning as they read was an added bonus!
My oldest son’s favorites were Hunt for the Devil’s Dragon, and Doomsday in Pompeii, while the younger, who is still working his way through the series, insists Revenge of the Red Knight is his favorite thus far. As the Revolution-era lover that I am, I’m probably more inclined toward titles like The Redcoats are Coming, and Surprise at Yorktown. But whatever era of history you or your child like best, there’s likely a book in this series to go along with it!
If you’re wanting to ease your younger child into real chapter books, I can’t think of a better place to start than The Imagination Station series. They may be the perfect way to inspire a love for books in your young reader!
