This is a running list of selection we have made for readings. Often, I will jot down a few thoughts about the selection and keep them compiled here. I use a 1-5 "owl" system. 1 owl bing the worst and 5 being the best.
Classics
Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
By Lewis Carrol
Illustrations by Helen Oxenbury
We found a wonderful version of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. It is the original Lewis Carrol story, but with lovely, more modern, and colorful illustrations. It makes for a wonderful read aloud story because the illustrations are so interesting as well. The other versions (more original), have occasional illustrations done in black and white and were not very clear in paperback. This version of the classic is engaging for the young reader.
The only drawback in this stoy is that some language and ideas are not quite appropriate for a preschooler. Not anything racy or adult, just language a little more course than we like. However, it was easy for me to edit or address with my daughter. I used them as teachable moments for appropriate language and/or behavior.
The Secret Garden
By Frances Hodgson Burnett, Adapted by James Howe
This is a part of the Stepping Stones series of classic chapter books which have been adapted for younger or independent readers. This version is certainly shorter than the original version by Burnett, however it is long on appeal. It is light on illustrations and the illustrations are black and white, yet they are frequent enough and well done to pique the interest of a younger child. It kept the attention of my four year old daughter and certainly sparked her imagination.
The drawback of this version is the length. If you are using the Classical approach to homeschooling, then certainly this abridged version will not do, as only full length versions are suggested. But i found that because we are early on in the process and my child is young, this version worked just fine. She enjoyed it so much that I am certain we will address the full lngth story in the future.
Marry Poppins
We are in the process of reading this one. Unfortunately it has not been engrossing for my daughter as other story have. We have actually shelved this one to try again later. I am not certain if it is the story itself, her age, or the limited illustrations and their style.
Nevertheless, I will have to postpone a review of this story.
