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Throwback to Childhood Reading: The Boxcar Children
There are so many new and fun book options for children. We have loved reading some of the more contemporary children’s books with my son, such as the Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site book series. My husband and I also love introducing him to some of our childhood favorites. When he was younger, we loved reading the Berenstein Bears series, which included some books from our childhood, along with some newer books in the series.
When we first started the transition to chapter books, we tried out several different series, including Flat Stanley and A to Z Mysteries. He enjoyed those books, especially his class project related to Flat Stanley.
We decided to try the Boxcar Children, and our son quickly fell in love with the series. Whenever we finish one book in the series, he’s ready to go on to the next. Of all the books we have tried, we have never seen him latch onto a series the way that he has with the Boxcar Children.
Here are some reasons why I believe my son loves the Boxcar Children:
Importance of Family
If you are familiar with the story of the Boxcar Children, you know that the siblings stick together after losing their parents. Once their grandfather finds them, they go to live with him and continue their strong bond. They take trips together. They work on projects together. They are seemingly inseparable. Wherever they go, they are resourceful. If you’re looking for a storyline with a strong sense of family and siblings working together to overcome challenges, the Boxcar Children may be the series your family is looking for.
Child-Centered Adventure
This series features the adventures of the four Alden children along with family and friends they make along the way. In many cases, the children are on their own as they explore and solve mysteries. Although not feasible in real life, what child doesn’t love the idea of their own solo adventure?
An Element of Mystery
Wherever the Alden children find themselves, a mystery is likely to ensue. What child doesn’t love to play detective? Each book has the children working together to solve a mystery. They always end up helping someone in the process, which can help our children recognize the importance of seeing and meeting needs around them.
Another fun element is that the first two books, The Boxcar Children and Surprise Island, have movies available on Amazon Prime. If you’re looking for a fun family activity this summer, you can reread these childhood classics with your children and then watch the movies.
