With all of the e-readers out there, many wonder if books in print are a dying breed … but pop-up books are bigger and better than ever.  Physical pop ups is one thing a Kindle CAN’T do!

Raising a reader is a contant challenge for parents with kids having access to other interactive devices. How do you draw kids into a story? Try the pizazz of pop-up books then segue into the intimacy of a wonderful story.  For now, grab a blanket, a good pop-up and sit outside under a tree, on a bench, on a step! Just get going and bring the delight of books to your child.

Poetry, anyone?  Julie Andrews recently won a Grammy for her fantastic recitative audio book.  Play it while driving in your car with your kids.

Ages 0 – 3

  • Read aloud every day
  • Set a schedule for reading
  • Keep books within reach
  • Show that you read, too
  • Go to storytime at the library

Ages 3 – 5

  • Encourage daily book time
  • Ask questions about the story
  • Make reading fun
  • Point out words in the world
  • Go to storytime events

Ages 5 – 9

  • Let him pick his books
  • Support book selections
  • Have him read to you
  • Let him read alone, too
  • Consider a kid book club

Ages 9 – 12

  • Ask about what he’s reading
  • Keep up the old habits
  • Head to the library and let him explore his options
  • Consider a kid book club

Harry Potter: A Pop-Up Book
by Lucy Kee, Bruce Foster and Andrew Williamson
Instant Editions
Ages 4 – 8 | $34.95
The original conceptor from all eight Harry Potter films worked on this fantastic pop-up sure to delight all ages with intricate goodies.  After the pop-up, move onto the work of JK Rowling.

Animal Pop!  
by National Geographic
Ages 7 – 11 | $14.95
Open up and roar with magnificent creatures of the world in this book as the pages unfold to reveal life-like animals.  After the pop-up, prowl the animal books at the library.

Beauty & the Beast
by Robert Sabuda
Simon & Schuster
Ages 3 – 8 | $29.99
Numerous small booklets accompany this lavish retelling rendered in rich colors and imaginative fold outs.  After the pop-up, move onto more fables and fairytales.

Wizard of Oz
by L. Frank Baum
Illustrated by Paul Hess
Silver Dolphin Books
Ages 4 – 8 | $19.95
Follow Dorothy on her quest to get back home in this intricately designed pop-up with brightly colored illustrations.  What’s special about this book is the unexpected surprise of sound!  After the pop-up, move onto L. Frank Baum’s other titles for children.