Magic Treehouse Series

I am always on the lookout for books for my kids to read. My mantra is "reading is the single most important thing that you can ever learn in your entire life." Just ask my kids. I also believe that math comes in a close second. We're talking basic life skills here, and reading certainly ranks right up there. In an effort to encourage my kids to love to read, I'm forever on the lookout for books that will pique their interest. This varies with each child, of course.

My third child, a second grader, loves the Magic Treehouse series of books. I give a hearty thumbs-up to these because not only does my son love them (and hence reads them!) but he's learning as he's reading. It's a double bonus.


Mary Pope Osborne, the author of the series of books, takes a piece of history and weaves a story around it. The gist of the books is that a brother and sister have a treehouse that will transport them to different periods of time. Kids around the world not only get caught up in the compelling stories, but learn about history as they're reading. I don't think it could get much better.

There are over 40 books in the series, so the good thing is that your kids won't run out of reading material any time soon. The stories are generally cliffhangers as the kids are in trouble just before being beamed back to their treehouse. It really keeps young readers turning pages in a hurry.



BUY YOUR OWN: The Magic Treehouse books can be purchased at any bookstore, or on Amazon. I highly recommend a few for summer reading for your young elementary kids.