School days

I like to think that my kids will never have trouble finding something super to read. But unfortunately, there are always going to be times when kids have trouble finding something that they really want to read. This is where a truly brilliant series comes into play. A well developed series is consistent in writing, character, and quality. And, I think that a series is especially brilliant for children.

If you have a reader who is having trouble finding something that they love to read, try out one of the series below. This is but a small portion of what's out there; this is my personal favorites list. Check out your local library or bookseller if none of these fit the bill. The rule of thumb with a series: if at first you don't succeed, try, try again! Hopefully you can find yourself a winner!

Geronimo Stilton by Geronimo Stilton (grades 2-4) Follow the adventures of the famouse newspaper editor Geronimo Stilton and his crazy family.

Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling (grades 3-adult) A wonderful series about (you guessed it!) the young wizard Harry Potter as he attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and overcomes the evils of the wizarding world. Need I say more?

Magic in Manhattan Series by Sarah Mlynowski (Young adult-girls) Living in New York City with their mother, Miri and Rachel learn how to navigate life as young witches. This series is hysterically funny and well written.

Ramona Quimby by Beverly Cleary (grades 2-5) Everyone loves Ramona! Every child (and parent who reads the book aloud) will find something to adore about this feisty gal.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan (grades 4-6, but I love these books!) Percy Jackson discovers that he is a halfling-half human, half Greek god. This series follows Percy on some amazing adventures as he learns of his special powers and attends camp Half-blood.

Magic Treehouse Series by Mary Pope Osborne (grades k-2) The fantastic globetrotting adventures of Jack and Annie.

Judy Moody by Megan McDonald (grades 1-3) Judy Moody is feisty and fun. My daughters have eaten these books up!

Sisters Grimm Series (grades 3-adult) Sabrina and Daphne Grimm discover that they are the relatives of the famous brothers Grimm. The sisters Grimm learn to be fairy tale detectives, just as the brothers Grimm were before them. These are the epitome of the fractured fairy tale!