Some Novels Can Give Your Kids a Bit More Knowledge

Fill their minds with informative, engaging, and enlightening…books!

Obviously books play a large part in educating our children. But there are some out there that are more fun to read than others. There are lots of novels that teach history, science, geography and many other topics while entertaining your child. They’re learning without even knowing it!

The Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne teaches young readers about geography and history—and they’re addictive! Books 1-28 are for readers new to chapter books and the Merlin Mission books, which begin at number 29, are for more experienced readers. (Use discretion—there are titles that refer to non-Jewish holidays.)

Another great series is the I Survived series by Lauren Tarshis. Recommended for grades 3 to 5, these books feature fictional survivors of historical tragedies and catastrophic events. Tsunamis, earthquakes, fires—the thrilling narratives will draw in even the most adventure-seeking readers.

The Jewish Girls Around the World series by Miriam Walfish takes girls to different places and different times in history with the unique perspective of a young Jewish girl. Penina’s Plan is the first of 16 books in the series featuring 5 different girls in history.

The series by Yaakov Meir Strauss starting with Three Special Days follows a child in the days of the Beis HaMikdash. These books can be an incredible tool to laying the foundation of knowledge our boys will need to learn Mishnayos and Gemara in their future.

For older readers looking for a vivid depiction of Tanach stories, the “Let My Nation” series by Yosef Deutsch is captivating. Start with Let My Nation Live which tells the Purim story and continue through the constantly expanding series for Tanach stories your child will never forget.

Long Shabbos afternoons are a great time to enjoy fresh new books. Lots of downtime can mean lots of learning time—without the kids even knowing it!