Amorstory

How to read picture books together

Shared reading is a conversation around a book: a grown-up reads, the child notices something, and both have time to respond. For children ages 3–8, start with a comfortable place, one picture and an open question. Follow the child's attention rather than rushing to finish.

Five steps for a shared read-aloud

  1. Begin with the cover

    Choose a comfortable place and look at the cover together. Ask who might be in the story and what the child notices first.

  2. Read one spread at a time

    Read slowly enough for the child to explore the picture. In Amor, give the kitten's thought labels a voice of their own.

  3. Ask an open question

    Try What did Amor notice? or What do you think Jennifer wants? Pause and let the child answer with words, pointing or a gesture.

  4. Talk about the characters

    Look at what a character does and says. Offer a feeling word when it fits the conversation, and leave space for the child's own interpretation.

  5. Choose what happens next

    Reread a favorite spread, try a picture riddle, draw something from the story or put the book away. A short shared session can be enough.

Adapt the reading moment

For bedtime reading

Choose a calm moment and a pace that suits the child. You can read the story tonight and leave the riddles or letter activity for tomorrow.

For preschool and library storytime

Show the picture before asking a question. Let children point to details, take turns and offer different explanations. You can read a few spreads and return to the story another day.

For early readers

Invite the child to find a familiar word, read a short label or tell the story from a picture. Reading aloud together can continue while a child learns to read independently.

For bilingual families

Read in a language you feel comfortable sharing. If you have two editions, compare a familiar phrase or character name. Match the available language and format in the editions catalogue before buying.

What does research say about shared reading?

The AAP’s 2024 policy recommends shared reading from birth through at least kindergarten, with books in the languages a family prefers. It emphasizes enjoyable, language-rich interactions between children and caregivers. [1]

A 2018 randomized trial studied a broader parenting program with books, play and video coaching. It found benefits on some parent-reported behavior measures at age 4½. These results concern that program; they do not establish effects of reading one book. [2]

The AAP’s earlier 2014 statement also recommended shared reading as part of early literacy promotion. These sources support making room for conversation around books. They have not tested Amor or established benefits specific to this series. [3]

Research references

  1. Klass P, Miller-Fitzwater A, High PC; Council on Early Childhood. Literacy Promotion: An Essential Component of Primary Care Pediatric Practice: Policy Statement. Pediatrics. 2024;154(6):e2024069090. Read the source on PubMed
  2. Mendelsohn AL, Cates CB, Weisleder A, et al. Reading Aloud, Play, and Social-Emotional Development. Pediatrics. 2018;141(5):e20173393. Read the source on PubMed
  3. High PC, Klass P; Council on Early Childhood. Literacy Promotion: An Essential Component of Primary Care Pediatric Practice. Pediatrics. 2014;134(2):404–409. Read the source on PubMed

Choose a story to read together

The Great Big NO! begins with a child saying no at dinner. The Big BIRTHDAY follows Jennifer’s fourth birthday when the party feels too loud. Both offer a family scene to notice and discuss.

Questions about reading picture books together

What is shared reading?

Shared reading is an interaction around a book. A grown-up reads or tells the story, and the child joins through looking, pointing, questions or conversation.

How do I start reading aloud with a preschooler?

Start with a comfortable place and one interesting picture. Read a little, ask what the child notices, and pause for their response.

Why ask open questions during a picture book?

An open question gives the child room to explain what they see, rather than guess a single expected answer. You can follow their response with another observation or turn the page.

When should we stop a read-aloud?

Stop or change activity when the child loses interest, gets tired or wants a break. You can return to the same story another day.

Can picture books help us talk about feelings?

Yes. A character's words and actions give you something specific to talk about. Ask what the character might want or notice; the child can point, act something out or offer their own feeling word.

Which Amor book fits a discussion about listening?

Amor and the Great Big NO! starts at a family dinner when Jennifer says no. Amor and the Big BIRTHDAY explores a party that feels overwhelming. Choose the story that interests your child.

Do these studies test the Amor books?

No. The studies concern shared reading or broader parenting programs. They provide background for reading together; they do not establish effects of the Amor series.

Where can I find the books and free sample?

The English bookshelf has a free sample of Book 1 and short previews of the other stories. The editions catalogue lists the available complete books and formats.

Written by Samaher Thabit and Martin Törnell. Content reviewed . About the creators.