Audrey’s Bookshelf
Read-Aloud Favorites
Good stories are even better when we share them. Here you’ll find books to enjoy aloud with a child, along with conversation starters and simple ways to follow their curiosity.
We’re beginning with Madeline. I’ll add more favorites as this shelf grows.
First on this shelf
Madeline
Written and illustrated by Ludwig Bemelmans
Meet a little girl with a very big spirit. Madeline lives in Paris with eleven other girls and Miss Clavel. She may be the smallest of the group, but her bold personality makes her easy to notice. When an unexpected nighttime emergency interrupts their familiar routine, the story takes a worrying turn.
The Paris illustrations, humor, and spirited heroine give you plenty to enjoy together—and plenty to revisit.
Through my teacher’s lens
Madeline offers a lovely opening for talking about courage, belonging, and being yourself. A child may notice the smallest character first; another may become fascinated by Paris or the details in the pictures. Let that curiosity lead the conversation.
A thoughtful match for: children who enjoy spirited characters, families who like reading aloud, and little observers who want to linger over the illustrations.
A gentle heads-up: the story includes a medical emergency and a hospital stay. If that is a sensitive subject for your child, preview it first and leave room for questions.
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See Madeline on AmazonCheck the listing for the edition and format you prefer.
Beyond “Did you like it?”
A little conversation, a little imagination
Choose one idea if it fits the moment. There’s no need to do them all.
Let’s talk about Madeline
- What makes someone brave? Can a brave person feel afraid?
- How does Madeline stand out from the other girls? What makes you wonderfully you?
- Which picture would you like to step into, and what would you explore first?
Try a tiny Paris adventure
Find Paris on a map or globe together. Then invite your child to draw a walking route through an imaginary city, with three places they would love to visit.
Ask, “Where would Madeline stop first—and why?” Drawing, pointing, or telling the story aloud all count.
For the child who wants to go deeper
Try this: “When is following the group helpful, and when might someone need to do something different?” Invite examples and different opinions. The interesting part is hearing how your child thinks.
A note from Audrey
Enjoy the story first
As a retired gifted teacher, I’m drawn to the conversations a good picture book can open. But you don’t have to ask every question or plan an activity. Read together, enjoy the pictures, and see what your child notices.
You can find Madeline through the Amazon link above, or ask for it at your local library. Check the edition and format to find the one that suits your family.
On the bookshelf: Read-Aloud Favorites
Also explores: courage, individuality, and belonging
Happy reading,
Audrey