Reading a classic book together can be a lovely way for parents and children to reconnect after a busy day or week.
Yet the biggest challenge parents face today is the constant competition from screens. It can seem like a never-ending tug of war between computers and doing anything else.
Can Netflix ever be as gripping as settling down with a classic book for a ten year old?
Well, yes if you choose wisely.
I’m often asked for reading lists for 11+ English entrance exams and am always happy to offer suggestions. Yet, I am not a fan of forcing children to read books that don’t appeal to them. My advice is always to my students is to try a different genre to your favourite one and see what you think. Getting a science fiction fan stuck into a historical series is not impossible!
So here’s a list of classic novels based on recommendations from my students, past and present. It comprises books that many a reluctant reader has raved about. I have added a few of my favourites too.
It’s not definitive by any means, but it should give you a good place to start. I’ve included books from every genre: fantasy, historical, science fiction, adventure… as well as some more modern and coming-of-age novels.
Click below for some tech-free escapism for your child and get your copy of the Classic Book List for 9-11 year olds!