Q. What books are recommended for third and fourth classes at primary level?

This age group is now beginning to learn to read for meaning in addition to learning the mechanics of reading. With this in mind, it is useful to know what a childs interests are as it helps in determining a book that appeals to them. Children also love being involved in the book selection process as they feel empowered and encouraged to read.

As a teacher or parent, if you are choosing a book specifically for reading aloud remember that it can be pitched at a higher reading level as children are able to listen and comprehend at higher reading levels. Fortunately, there is always a wider selection of books available for reading aloud purposes.

The following is Scoilnet's choice of books which is a mix of adventure, mystery, humour and classics. All are recommended for either reading aloud or reading alone, depending on your child's ability.

1.   The BFG, by Roald Dahl
2.   Pippi Longstocking, by Astrid Lindgrin
3.   The Killer Underpants, by Michael Lawrence
4.   Velveteen Rabbit, by Margery Williams
5.   Sideways Stories from the Wayside School, by Louis Sachar
6.   Five on a Treasure Island, by Enid Blyton
7.   Charlottes Web, by E.B White
8.   My Father's Dragon, by Ruth Stiles Gannet
9.   Bright Lights, by Linda Chapman
10. James and the Giant Peach, by Roald Dahl
11. The World According to Humprey, by Betty G.Birney
12. Horrid Henry, by Francesca Simon
13. Snakes Elbows, by Deirdre Madden
14. Goosebumps, by R.L Stine
15. The Worst Witch, by Jill Murphy
16. The Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson Burnett
17. Children of the Famine, by Marita Conlon-Mckenna
18. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, by Lewis Carroll
19. Judy Moody, by Megan Mac Donald
20. Harry Potter J.K Rowling

Sites to help you choose.

Reading matters Book Chooser
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