Favorite Books for National Book Month

Favorite Books Close to My Heart

Mama’s Bank Account by Kathryn Forbes tells the story of a Norwegian immigrant family living in San Francisco in the early 1900s. Through their ups and downs, Mama’s love, cleverness, and the secret of her “bank account” help the family stay hopeful and strong.

From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg follows Claudia and her brother Jamie as they run away to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Their adventure leads to a mysterious statue—and the surprising Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler herself.

James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl shares the tale of James, a lonely boy who discovers a magical giant peach filled with unusual insect friends. Together, they embark on a fantastical journey across the ocean, full of surprises, danger, and fun.

The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden introduces Chester, a country cricket who accidentally ends up in New York City. With the help of a cat, a mouse, and a boy, Chester finds adventure and the gift of music amidst the bustling city streets.

An Old-Fashioned Girl by Louisa May Alcott tells the story of Polly, a kind and sensible country girl visiting her wealthy city friends. Through her steady values and gentle wisdom, she shows the importance of friendship, love, and character.

The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare follows Kit, a young girl who moves from Barbados to a strict Puritan community in Connecticut. There, she befriends a woman shunned as a witch and learns lessons about courage, loyalty, and standing up for what is right.

The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi shares the story of thirteen-year-old Charlotte, who boards a ship in 1832 for what should be a simple voyage. Instead, she becomes entangled in a fierce struggle between the captain and crew, testing her courage, loyalty, and resourcefulness.

Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes tells the story of a young silversmith’s apprentice in Boston whose life is changed by an accident. As he seeks a new purpose, he becomes caught up in the events leading to the American Revolution and discovers courage, friendship, and freedom.

No matter your child’s age or reading level, these stories offer rich opportunities to explore history, imagination, and character in your homeschool reading. National Book Month is the perfect reminder to curl up with a beloved story, share the adventure, and nurture a lifelong love of reading in your homeschool.