Honey for a Child's Heart

In this day and age when children are being enticed to read all kinds of things inappropriate for them this book gives lists of great literature which will build rather than tear down your child's mind.

If you're looking for a complete list of all classic literature for children compiled to your own specifications, you've got the wrong book. Gladys Hunt apologizes for the fact that she couldn't include every book even she liked. Instead, she gives you what every book-hunter needs: the guide to finding good books on your own and a springboard to help get you started! Hunt devotes an entire half of her book to explaining the need in children's lives for good books and how it can transform childhood for the better. She also explores the various genres and provides insight into some touchy areas. (This includes a defense against blind criticism for which she uses Harry Potter as an example; if you are Harry-Potter-phobic - I am borderline - you may find her defense a bit offensive at which point it would be wise to note that she isn't defending the book itself as much as she is asking parents to give careful thought before banning a book, rather than banning it because it's a matter of controversy.) Her book's aim was to give a foundation for choosing good books over mediocre books, a starter list of excellent authors and artists, and an urge to be brave and find new treasures for yourself. As a second-generation follower of the Gladys Hunt way of thinking (and as a prospective mother eager for good parenting material), I would HIGHLY recommend this book as a good read and an excellent starter list.NOTE: If you want a more thorough list in addition to this, you may want to look for Nathaniel Bluedorn's list and Jan Bloom's list. They are well worth the reading, too.

We decided as parents to read early on and often in our home.We read out loud and silently. But we read together, in the presence of each other, in real life and online!I've taken a look at this book over the years to find good reading material for my daughter. She is 13 years old now and loves reading.She loves the actual touch and feel of paper, printed books AND digital books.Thank you for this resource.Life on this earth is too short to wonder what to read!

I LOVE this book! I often bring it with me to the library (we go once or twice a week) and grab 5-10 books. Reading the first section of the book was an absolute treat. I don't agree with the author 100% but for the most part, we are "on the same page.":) I have a masters degree in science, I've always loved reading and I've frequented the children's section of the library since my first child could sit on my lap. My mother has a masters degree in children's literature and has been a teacher my whole life. That being said, I learned some great things from reading this book so there's something for everyone. A great reminder of the importance of learning through books. And of course I love how the book lists are organized in the second half of the book. I have a 3, 5, 8 and 11 year old. I can easily turn to the section for their age and find books based on categories as well. Every mom who loves reading to her child should have a copy of this book.

This is such a wonderful resource. Another homeschooling mom recommended it to me, and I have made use of it to find ideas for what to read to my children and what to give them to read. There are so many books these days, it can be very overwhelming to browse a library and find something of value. So many books are media tie-ins! I also wanted to go beyond the books I remember reading as a child. The author's philosophy for sowing a love for books is a good reminder for me to slow down and allow my children to ask questions and enjoy pictures. While I miss *my own* reading, we have enjoyed reading to our children more.The lists in the back are very good. I'm certain there are books and authors missing from the lists, but that's why you can go on Amazon and see what is similar. I love how the 9-12 age books are divided into many categories.I hope there is a "Honey For a Child's Heart 2" to incorporate newer authors!

This was such a blessing and encouragement to read. Great reminders of the reasons that reading is so crucial, as well as how important book selection is. I love the lists of books at the end and always go back to them as we are looking for more to read.

I used this with my own children and bought it as a gift for a new mother!

This resource blew me away -- it's so much more than an annotated bibliography of children's literature. I started out skimming it half-heartedly, but eventually ended up poring over every page, feverishly underlining, and even reading it aloud with my husband. Gladys Hunt painted a picture of family life that I had never dreamed possible. Since reading this, we've started reading together as a family much more frequently, and it's had such a positive effect not just on my children's development, but on our relationships and family culture.This is a must-have for parents of young children!

Gladys Hunt is a phenomenal author, well-read and sensitive to young people's interests.She has much experience with her own children, with children in schools and young adults andcollege students. She is an avid reader and book critique.This book I devoured in a few days time.I have read it through and am rereading it as I choose books for our daughter, my nephews, niecesand Godchildren.This is an excellent source. I have recommended it to many friends and will continue to do so!Many thanks!

I highly recommend this book to all parents who are serious about unlocking the joy of reading for their children. From the explanation of why reading and reading aloud together are necessary and worthwhile to the book lists for various ages and stages, this book is simply fabulous.

excellent book, love bit by bit and starting reading with the entire family! English is my second language but while reading I sound native! Thank you!!!

The introductory chapters are a very good read, not to mention the recommendations themselves. Inspire a love of reading in your child.

Enjoyed reading this book. Lots of great suggestions of books to read to children of various ages.