9 . Seven-year-olds, with their increasing attention spans, are ready for more complex chapter books, but they still enjoy shorter stories and funny picture books. See what your second graders think of these tried-and-true read-aloud books.

Chicken Cheeks by Michael Ian Black is a short, silly tale about a bear who is determined to reach some honey with the help of some of his animal friends. With minimal text, this book is a short, quick read-aloud one that appeals to the potty-humor of seven-year-olds.

Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel follows the adventures of a pair of amphibian best friends, Frog and Toad. The stories are silly, heart-warming, relatable, and always a treasure to share with children.

Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White, published in 1952, captivates readers of all ages with its timeless tale of friendship, love, and sacrifice. The story introduces children to the richness of language and reminds them of the influence we can have on the lives of others even if we feel small and insignificant.

The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner, a series originally published in 1924, tells the story of four orphaned siblings who work together to make their home in an abandoned boxcar. The story imparts lessons such as hard work, resilience, and team work all woven into a story that will hook young readers and inspire them to investigate the rest of the series.

1. Which book should you choose if you want your children to improve their language skills?

A．Chicken Cheeks.	B．Charlotte’s Web.
C．Frog and Toad.	D．The Boxcar Children.

2. Which of the four books has a continuation?

A．Charlotte’s Web.	B．Frog and Toad.
C．The Boxcar Children.	D．Chicken Cheeks.

3. What do the four books have in common?

A．They are all humorous.	B．They were published in the 19th century.
C．They are all about adventures.	D．They are all suitable for second-grade children.