Reading with kids sometimes leads to a surprising discovery: you find yourself getting just as hooked on the story.
Magic Tree House Series (by Mary Pope Osborne)
It all starts when two ordinary siblings, Jack and Annie, discover a mysterious treehouse in the woods. But this isn’t any treehouse – it’s a time machine powered by books.
Dirty Bertie Series (by Alan MacDonald)
Dirty Bertie is a little boy with some gross habits.
Each book contains three short stories, so it’s easy to pick up and put down anytime. With lots of illustrations, it feels like a perfect bridge between picture books and chapter books.
Arthur Chapterbook (by Marc Brown)
The Arthur Chapter Book Series is wonderful entry into point into chapter reading for kids – but also a nostalgic comfort read for adults.
Each book is around 60-70 pages, with generous font sizes and short chapters. Perfect for a one-sitting read – even in English, it’s not intimidating.
Horrid Henry Series (by Francesca Simon)
Henry is loud, stubborn, clever, and obedient. He’s constantly compared to his annoyingly perfect little brother Perfect Peter, but Henry refuses to play nice.
Each story is short and easy to read aloud, which makes it perfect for shared reading or fun miniplays with kids.
Princess in Black Series (by Shannon and Dean Hale)
Princess Magnolia likes pink dress, tea parties, and unicorns. She dashes through a secret passage, throws on a black mask and cape, and transforms into The Princess in Black.
Each book is around 80-90 pages, and every new title brings fresh monsters, quirky heroes, and a dose of delightful chaos.
Dragon Masters Series (by Tracey West)
The story follows a boy named Drake, a humble farm kid who is suddenly chosen to become a Dragon Master.
Each new book introduces different dragons with special powers, and that’s half the fun – you never know what kind of dragon you’ll meet next.
Fly Guy Presents Series (by Tedd Arnold)
Fly Guy is not ordinary bug. He’s smart, curious, and surprisingly charming. His best friend Buzz joins him on every knowledge-filled journey, and together, they explore cool topics in a way that’s light, funny, and totally non-boring.
These books are a perfect next step after picture books – short chapters, fewer illustrations, and more text. Ideal for young readers who are starting to explore longer stories.
