Chapter book series have become increasingly popular for children. Once the young reader has gotten hooked into a series, he/she can’t wait for the next installment. What better way to nurture enthusiasm for reading! Familiarity with characters and plot structure also contribute to increased comprehension and fluency. And then there is the benefit of the social connection children make with others who are reading the same series—sharing opinions about characters or stories.
The children’s collection at our library contains many chapter book series—popular series that have stood the test of time as well as new series that are fresh and getting attention. I have listed below a few of the series that can be found on the children’s juvenile fiction shelves. Maybe one or two of these will be a new discovery for your child.
A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket: The adventures and misfortunes of the three Baudelaire siblings. First published in 1999, the series consists of 13 volumes.
Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger: Sophie, a 12-year-old girl who is telepathic, finds herself living in a new world. As she tries to learn about her own background, magical creatures, secrets, and conspiracies are intertwined in her adventure.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan: Fantasy novels set in the 21st century in a world in which the Greek gods live. The chief character, Percy Jackson, is a young demigod.
Stick Dog by Tom Watson: A light-hearted series where laughs and adventure abound. Sprinkled with stick figure drawings to entice the reluctant reader who will soon be asking for more!
Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend: An 11-year-old girl finds herself rescued from a drastic fate to be left in a magical world called Nevermoor where she must prove herself through dangerous feats in order to be part of the Wundrous Society.
Magic Misfits by Neil Patrick Harris: Runaway street magician, Carter, discovers magic and friendship as he attempts to escape a group of crooked carnival performers and save a quiet New England town. Fun magic tricks are scattered throughout! (Volumes #3 and 4 on order.)
The above are just a sampling of the chapter book series available in the children’s collection. If there is an interest in a series which we do not have or additional volumes wanted for a series which we only partially have, please let us know.
Children’s Book Reviews are by Nancy Guist.
