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First Chapter Books

first chapter books

Booklist: First Chapter Books 

Finding the right books is essential in helping young readers successfully make the leap into their first chapter books. On this booklist, we have picked a selection of short, illustrated chapter books that are perfect for children launching into independent reading. This collection of early reader books – with colour illustrations, shorter length and clear formatting – has been picked with those readers in mind who need something to bridge the gap between reading scheme books and lengthier chapter books. Here are our top picks of the best first chapter books for children.

Jeremy Strong
 & Jamie Smith
Chapter book

Nellie Choc-Ice is a well-travelled penguin, who also happens to be slightly accident-prone. While attempting to get home via a series of mishaps, she comes across an island that blocks her path. The island is entirely made of plastic rubbish in the ocean. The story makes it clear that the plastic is putting wildlife in danger and that it must be cleared up. This is a funny and accessible first chapter book addressing an important issue, with a super-readable and child-friendly format that makes it perfect for newly independent readers.

Alex T. Smith
Chapter book

This is part of an award-winning and hugely popular series about a loveable dog called Claude and his hapless companion Sir Bobblysock. In this story, Claude stumbles across a circus and cannot help but inadvertently become the star of the show. This entertaining series is full of slapstick humour and amusing illustrations that hold a high appeal to new readers aged 6-8 looking for a fun, accessible read. Highly recommended!

Shirley Hughes
 & Clara Vulliamy
Chapter book

Mother and daughter duo Shirley Hughes and Clara Vulliamy offer a perfect first chapter book series for emerging readers, all about a bowtie-wearing dog and his friendly driving companion Percy. In this story, the duo enter an All-Day Car Race and find themselves up against a villainous rival called Lou Ella. With a gentle but pacey story, never too much text on each page and added comic details in the illustrations, this is a winner for those not wishing to be overwhelmed by a longer read.

Harriet Muncaster
Chapter book

This is part of a series responsible for turning many young children into independent readers. Isadora Moon is half fairy, half-vampire and each book in the series follows her adventures with friends and family. In this book, Isadora has reached school age and has an important decision to make. Her mum wants her to attend fairy school and her dad wants to send her to vampire school. Isadora tries out each school, with their very different priorities and curriculums, and in the process answers some important questions about her own heritage and identity. This is a humorous chapter book, with attractive black-and-pink illustrations and a high appeal to modern young readers.

Nick Sharratt
Chapter book

This story from well-loved author-illustrator Nick Sharrat is full of warmth and humour. After a fire at the castle, the King and his cat move to 37, Castle Close where life is very different. Normal tasks like shopping and setting the table for dinner are unfamiliar to someone used to having servants at their beck and call. Fortunately, the king’s loyal cat is close by to lend a hand. A funny book with a wide appeal, especially written for emergent readers.

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