Edward Tulane

So far, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane is my all time favorite read-a-loud. I have been so anxious for the "right" time to begin reading it to Gabriella. Somethings just feel so official and chapter books feel like one of those things. 

I have all sorts of questions; When do you start reading chapter books to little ones? When do they develop the stamina to sit, listen and really enjoy it? How will I know exactly when they are ready? With which books do I start? 

Well, I don't know the answers to all of the above but it's ok, I don't think you're suppose to. I think I've figured out that you just kinda have to go for it then adapt and adjust along the way. Besides, how will I ever know if I never just try. 

I'm so happy to report it was every bit as wonderful as I had imagined it'd be! Gabriella was enthralled by Edward's Journey and I was tickled to be the voice she heard behind such a beautiful story. 

We sat in silence for many moments after I finished reading the very last page. At first, I worried the silence was an indication of some confusion or misunderstanding but I wasn't left in fear for long for she quickly spread her arms wide and wrapped them tightly around my neck. I know now, she was merely using those precious moments to soak it all in. 

{Sigh} I hugged her so tight! I know exactly how she was feeling. The end of this book does it to me every time, a warm embrace was the most appropriate response. 

I tried to take a couple pictures of how the majority of our reading sessions took place...

...Josiah napping, Mikey in my lap (helping me to turn pages) and Gabriella to my left side :) 

This was often the end result of cuddling and reading few chapters close to Mikey's nap time...

The End. 

We're on to Charlotte's Web now and she's every bit of interested. What an honor it is to have the opportunity to go on such incredible journeys with them through the pages of these beautiful stories.