As a self-proclaimed lover of literature and grammar, I have always been conscious of what first sparked my initial interest. I always loved school. Honestly, I loved school more than could be deemed "normal". Yet, elementary school still holds a special place in my heart. For most, elementary school was the place where we first learned our strengths, tested our minds, and made new connections. We learned how to read, write, run, jump, add, subtract, and converse in those early school days. However, when it comes to my love of reading, library hour was the best part of the day. I'm pursuing a degree in English Education, and I have those early days in the Burlington Elementary School Library to thank. Nestled in those library chairs, I discovered the skills of the imagination, as well as the importance of creativity. Here are a few early book series that my generation loved and (hopefully) cherished.
1. "The Magic Tree House"
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The adventures of Jack and Annie are fantastical, yet they lead students to so many different worlds. From the Titanic and Pompeii to safaris and battles, Mary Pope Osborne provides a history lesson alongside an adventure. There are now 55 novels in the series, and Osborne isn't slowing down. In addition, a film revolving around the series is currently in the works. (My inner seven-year-old can't wait!)
2. "Goosebumps"
R.L. Stine is the reigning master of adolescent suspense. Between the book series, T.V. series, video game, and (less impressive) film, "Goosebumps" has become one of the greatest franchises of all time. Personally, "The Werewolf of Fever Swamp" and "One Day at Horrorland" are my favorites, and I can't wait for future generations to experience the horror-induced panic of semi-scary stories.
3. "A to Z Mysteries"
Huh. There are 26 books in this series. I wonder why? In every novel, the reader is included on a mystery investigation. The three protagonists weren't the most popular kids in school, and the trio mirrored the Harry, Ron, and Hermione bond. These books definitely made A.R. tests bearable.
4. "The Adventures of the Bailey School Kids"
As the Bailey School Kids investigated their school employees, they soon discovered that a few were mythical creatures. I'm sure some students thought that their teachers were witches, but I don't think that was the author's aim. "Leprechauns Don't Play Basketball" has always been my favorite novel in the series.
5. "Junie B. Jones"
For young girls, Junie B. Jones was our idol. She was confident, kind, independent, and intelligent; those attributes rarely accompany female characters, especially children. Though she was often the culprit of minor mishaps, Junie Beatrice Jones always prevailed in the end. I will always cherish this series.
6. "The Adventures of Captain Underpants"
What can I say? The story lines may have been undeveloped and the protagonist a bit immature, but the series gives every kid a laugh. Sometimes you just needed stupid humor, and "Captain Underpants" was the perfect choice.
7. "Diary of a Wimpy Kid"
As we left the comfort of elementary school, Greg Heffley was there for that awkward middle school transition. With stick-figure animations and adolescent woes, "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" was the handbook to survival for many eleven-year-old students. Good times... GOOD times.
Though our childhoods may have drawn to a close, we can always look forward to sharing our literary favorites with the next generation. Save those books for future kids longing for a great adventure or journey!
