WHY READING STORIES IS FUN FOR YOUR CHILD… AND FOR YOU!

In a world bustling with screens and endless digital content, there’s a serene refuge waiting to be embraced — the world of books. However, in countries like India, where the literacy rate stands at 73%, and reading is often seen solely as a means to achieve academic success, the beauty of reading for pleasure sometimes remains overshadowed. Yet, this act of diving into a book purely for the joy it brings is immensely beneficial, especially in a landscape dominated by screens.

Amidst the pressure to excel academically, the art of reading for pleasure often takes a backseat. In a culture where the emphasis is on using reading as a tool to attain degrees or score well in exams, the true joy of immersing oneself in a story simply for the love of it gets sidelined.

However, here’s a revelation: Reading for pleasure offers an unparalleled gift to both children and adults alike. It’s a mental journey that goes beyond the mere accumulation of information or meeting educational targets. Unlike endless hours spent glued to screens, whether TVs or mobiles, the act of flipping through pages and getting lost in stories actively stimulates the brain, fostering creativity, empathy, and critical thinking.

Engaging in stories for sheer pleasure has been scientifically proven to enhance cognitive abilities, improve focus, and reduce stress levels. It opens up avenues of imagination, transporting readers to worlds untold and experiences unknown.

By encouraging your child to read for pleasure, you’re not just introducing them to a hobby — you’re gifting them a treasure trove of benefits. It’s a chance to unlock their imagination, nurture empathy, and create an everlasting love for learning.

In a world where digital screens reign supreme, advocating for the simple act of sitting down with a book is more crucial than ever. It’s about fostering a love affair with stories that go beyond the confines of academic pursuits. It’s about instilling a lifelong passion for the written word, one that transcends the boundaries of age, culture, and background.

So, dear parents, amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, take a moment to embrace the wonders of reading for pleasure. Let’s encourage our children, and ourselves, to dive into the pages of a book, not merely to check off a task but to savor the sheer delight of storytelling.

Let’s embark on this enchanting journey together, where the magic of stories awaits us, ready to ignite our imaginations and fill our hearts with joy. Here’s a list of engaging and captivating children’s books suitable for kids aged 7 and above in the 21st century. These books span various genres, from adventure and fantasy to mystery and humor, promising delightful reads that can spark imagination and curiosity:

1. “Harry Potter Series” by J.K. Rowling: Follow the magical journey of Harry Potter, a young wizard, as he attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. This series introduces readers to a world filled with spells, friendships, and thrilling adventures.

2. “Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series” by Rick Riordan: Join Percy Jackson, a demigod, as he discovers his divine heritage and embarks on incredible quests alongside other demigods, exploring Greek mythology in a modern setting.

3. “The Chronicles of Narnia Series” by C.S. Lewis: Step into the enchanting world of Narnia, where talking animals, mythical creatures, and epic battles await. This series is a timeless classic that captures the imagination.

4. “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio: Follow the story of Auggie Pullman, a boy with facial differences, as he navigates the challenges of fitting in at a new school. This heartwarming tale promotes empathy and acceptance.

5. “Matilda” by Roald Dahl: Join Matilda, a young girl with extraordinary intelligence, as she discovers her unique abilities and stands up against bullies and unfairness. Roald Dahl’s witty storytelling and lovable characters make this a must-read.

6. “A Series of Unfortunate Events” by Lemony Snicket: Follow the Baudelaire siblings — Violet, Klaus, and Sunny — as they navigate through unfortunate events, eccentric characters, and mysteries, trying to uncover the truth about their parent’s demise.

7. “Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series” by Jeff Kinney: Join Greg Heffley as he navigates the perils of middle school life. Filled with humor and illustrated in a diary format, this series is relatable and entertaining.

8. “The One and Only Ivan” by Katherine Applegate: Meet Ivan, a gorilla living in captivity, as he embarks on a remarkable journey to find a better life for himself and his friends. This touching story is based on a true story of hope and friendship.

9. “The Magic Tree House Series” by Mary Pope Osborne: Follow siblings Jack and Annie as they embark on time-traveling adventures through a magical treehouse. Each book takes readers on historical or fantastical journeys.

These books offer captivating stories that can ignite a love for reading and provide hours of entertainment for children aged 7 and above in the 21st century.