Six Slam-Dunk Read-Alouds for Fourth Grade

Children of all ages LOVE to be read to - I know I love my audio books, don't you? 

Unfortunately, with all of the things being added to our ‘plates’ as teachers, we sometimes don’t make time to read aloud.

​This is a mistake.
 
We must protect our read-aloud time, and choose fabulous books for this purpose! Here are some wonderful examples of books that lend themselves to being read aloud and are eternally loved by all.

​* Please note that I have included affiliate links below. I will receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking one. It's a great way to support the website at no extra cost to you!

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Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume (Realistic Fiction)

This classic story stars Peter and Fudge. Peter’s younger brother, called Fudge, is the bane of his existence. All of the adults think Fudge is sweet and cute, but Peter knows better. And Peter’s turtle, Dribble, is in constant danger from Fudge’s antics!

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate (Fantasy)

Like Charlotte’s Web, this story gives the reader a different perspective of an animals’ existence. Ivan is a gorilla who lives in a mall, where visitors come to see and watch him. Having lived in his glass enclosure there for nearly thirty years, Ivan rarely thinks about the jungle. When he meets Ruby, a baby elephant taken from the wild, he sees the world through her eyes - and everything changes.

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James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl (Fantasy)

Why do readers love Dahl so much? Because Roald Dahl does evil like nobody else. When Dahl introduces the reader to Aunt Sponge and Aunt Spiker, along with poor James, we know we’re about to witness great writing. And Dahl does not disappoint.

Whether it’s the endless parade of made up words, the excellent character development, or the unexpected plot twists, Roald Dahl shows his genius in every book he’s written. Enjoy!

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No Talking by Andrew Clements (Realistic Fiction)

Clements is a prolific author of very popular books for intermediate readers. In this story, a rivalry between upper-elementary students gets crazy when the leaders of the boys and the leader of the girls agree to a ‘quiet contest’. 

The boys think the girls will surely crack first, and the girls show them a thing or two. But how will it end? The teachers and principal are all part of the drama, too. One would think teachers would love a quiet contest, but it actually presents more problems to be solved.

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The City of Ember by Jane Du Prau (Science Fiction)

Ember was built as the last city of refuge for the human race. Two hundred years later, the lights are beginning to dim in Ember. Lina and her best friend Doon must find the answer that will keep the lights on and save the city of Ember. The ancient message Lina finds could be the key to solving the whole situation - if Lina can figure it out in time!

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Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis (Historical Fiction)

Times are hard in 1936 Flint, Michigan, but ten-year-old Bud is tough. Bud sets off on his own to search for the man he believes to be his father, taking with him nothing more than a single suitcase and some clues from his Momma. The circumstances are daunting, but Bud’s hope is strong. Will he find his father?

This is but a tiny sampling of the amazing selections available for your next read-aloud. Make time every day to enjoy a book with your students - they will be better for it!
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About My Guest Blogger

Hi there! I am Becky, a twenty-seven year veteran teacher and reading specialist! I have experience K - 5, and have been teaching fifth for a while now.
​As a mom of three (mostly) grown children, I know how tricky the juggling act can be. I love spending my days learning along with my students!