Chapter Books for the Reggio Emilia Inspired Child (Part 3)

Part 3 of the list of books for the Reggio Emilia-inspired child contains beautiful chapter books. Although Reggio Emilia generally focuses on children under 6, older children and adults get a lot out of the principles of Reggio as well. These books are for older children who are confident readers, any child who likes to listen to a chapter book being read to them, and for adults who are also inspired by the Reggio concept.

Ada Lovelace Cracks the Code is a wonderful story for any child who aspires to change the world through technology. Something many people do not know is that modern computing came from weaving on looms. Ada Lovelace is the grandmother of modern technology as we know it today. There are many books in this series by Rebel Girls that are wonderful for all children, regardless of gender.

The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q Rauf is a beautiful story that upholds the Reggio principles of social collaboration and seeing children as whole, capable people. Aimed at 9 year olds, this book follows a group of four children who live in London and a new child who joins their class. The new child is a refugee who does not speak English. The children work together to help him feel at home.

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackey is a story to be savoured. It is reminiscent of Winnie the Pooh and Paddington, with simple but impactful illustrations and lots of inspirational nuggets of wisdom throughout. A real treasure of a book for children and adults to love and enjoy together.

The History of Mischief by Rebecca Higgie should, in my opinion, be in every school library in Australia and on every child's shelf. Following along with main character Jessie through the history of the world's mischief-makers, children and adults alike will fall in love with the magical world Rebecca Higgie has woven. I came away from this book with a completely fresh perspective on and appreciation of many historical events.

Rickshaw Girl by Mitali Perkins is an inspiring story about Naima, a girl who uses her talents and resourcefulness to help her poor Bengali family. With beautiful illustrations, this book is inspirational for children who love art and writing.

White Bird: A Graphic Novel by R J Palacio follows the journey of Julian's (August's bully in the book Wonder), Grandmother during the Holocaust. A different style of book for children who prefer comics and graphic novels, this is a moving story with parallels drawn between historical events and today.

Wonder by R J Palacio is a book that many children I know have recommended, and so it has to make this list. It is about August, who has a facial deformity and is starting school for the first time in Year 5. The messages of friendship, acceptance, judgment and love are strong throughout this book.