The best first chapter books to read aloud

Kids can listen to far more complicated stories than they can read. If yours asks what happens next and remembers it the following night, it is time.

Arnold Lobel

The bridge: short stories they may soon be reading to you.

Ages 4–8 · ≈ 8 min aloud

Astrid Lindgren

Every chapter is its own adventure, so nobody gets lost.

Ages 5–10 · ≈ 15 min a sitting · 3 h total

E.B. White & Garth Williams

The classic first novel. Pick your night for the ending.

Ages 5–11 · ≈ 20 min a sitting · 4 h total

Peter Brown

Very short chapters and a story that makes you say "one more."

Ages 6–11 · ≈ 15 min a sitting · 4 h total

Roald Dahl & Quentin Blake

For the kid who wants jokes with an edge.

Ages 6–12 · ≈ 20 min a sitting · 5 h total

Tove Jansson

For the thoughtful kid who wants something strange and quiet.

Ages 6–12 · ≈ 20 min a sitting · 3 h total

Other moments