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Welcome to the January Family Reading Guide! The new year is a perfect time for fresh starts, and what better way to begin than by stepping into the magical world of Narnia? It’s the perfect time to discover or revisit The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, where we find stories of courage, friendship, and triumph. Whether you're introducing little ones to the magic of Narnia or revisiting it with older kids, there’s something special about entering this world together in January.
But that’s not all! January also brings plenty of special observances and fun celebrations like National Soup Month, National Braille Literacy Month, and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Plus, we get to celebrate the birthdays of great authors like A.A. Milne and Michael Bond, making this month full of inspiration for family reading.
In this guide, you’ll find books for all ages, from board books for the littlest ones to read-alouds and chapter books for the whole family. Let’s make January a month filled with reading adventures!
Prefer to download the guide as a printable PDF?
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January Board Books
Start your youngest readers' year off with these cozy board books. Featuring winter themes, simple stories, and engaging illustrations, these books are perfect for little hands and growing imaginations.
Featured Board Books:
Even your youngest readers can experience the magic of Narnia in this delightful board book!
National Winnie the Pooh Day is January 18. Celebrate with this adorable board book!
"The King of All Things is a celebratory prayer that helps the youngest hearts in your home to love the goodness of the Great King and revel in His kingship over all things."
The Bear series by Karma Wilson is one of my favorite series for toddlers and preschoolers.
More Board Books to Enjoy in January:
January Picture Books
In January, our reading theme is Narnia. Here are three excellent picture books to share the wonder of Narnia with younger children:
New Year's Picture Books
I've rounded up some wonderful picture books to help ring in the New Year.
Picture Books to Celebrate National Soup Month
Did you know that January is National Soup Month? Here are some delightful soup-themed picture books:
More Picture Books to Enjoy in January
Six Dots: A Story of Young Louis Braille by Jen Bryant - World Braille Day is January 4
Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World's Most Famous Bear by Lindsay Mattick - National Winnie the Pooh Day is January 18 (A.A. Milne's Birthday)
Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin King Luther, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport - Martin Luther King Jr. Day is on January 20
I Have a Dream by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - Martin Luther King Jr. Day is on January 20
Where's Waldo? by Martin Handford - National Puzzle Day is January 29
I Spy: A Book of Picture Riddles by Jean Marzollo - National Puzzle Day is January 29
Adele & Simon by Barbara McClintock - National Puzzle Day is January 29
❄ Looking for the ultimate list of winter picture books? Check out my list with over 50 titles!
January Early Readers & First Chapter Books (ages 5-7)
Unfortunately, this series is out of print. Check your local library by searching for "I Can Read Narnia," or look for them used.
One of my favorite books for beginner readers! A classic that is worth owning.
More Early Readers to Enjoy in January
Mr. Putter & Tabby Stir the Soup by Cynthia Rylant - January is National Soup Month!
Snowball Soup by Mercer Mayer - January is National Soup Month!
Winter Snow Fun: God Gives Us Friends When We’re Ready for Adventure by Wendy Dunham
January Chapter Books (ages 6-9)
At this age, kids often love diving into series that keep the adventures going! Each month, I’ll highlight a couple of chapter book series to explore and enjoy. Here are some great options to hand your young readers in January.
10 Boys Who & 10 Girls Who Series by Irene Howat
This inspiring series introduces kids to real-life heroes of faith who made a lasting impact on the world. With engaging stories, tons of facts, and fun quizzes, these books are perfect for inspiring courage, perseverance, and making a difference.
Heartwood Hotel Series by Callie George
Set in a cozy woodland hotel, the Heartwood Hotel series is filled with heartwarming tales of friendship, bravery, and the beauty of helping others. These charming chapter books are ideal for kids who love animals and enchanting adventures.
The Lighthouse Family by Cynthia Rylant
Written by Cynthia Rylant, The Lighthouse Family series weaves gentle, heartwarming stories about an unlikely family brought together by the sea. With themes of kindness and togetherness, these books make lovely, calming reads for young chapter book fans.
Jigsaw Jones Mysteries by James Preller
Celebrate National Puzzle Day on January 29 with Jigsaw Jones! This mystery series is packed with fun, problem-solving, and clever puzzles for young readers. While I haven’t read every book in the series, the ones I’ve read have been wholesome and age appropriate.
January Middle Grade Books (ages 8-12)
These middle grade picks are perfect for inspiring readers ages 8-12 this January. From stories of resilience during harsh winters to tales of personal growth and adventure, these books will spark imaginations and encourage meaningful discussions. Whether you’re looking for historical fiction, relatable characters, or a fresh start for the new year, there’s something here for everyone!
Happy New Year, Julie by Megan McDonald
This heartwarming American Girl story follows Julie as she navigates new beginnings and family changes during the New Year. Perfect for fans of historical fiction and relatable characters, this book gently explores themes of growth and resilience.
*Content consideration: divorce of parents
Way of the Warrior Kid: From Wimpy to Warrior the Navy SEAL Way by Jocko Willink
Kick off the New Year with this inspiring tale of determination and self-improvement. In the first Way of the Warrior Kid book, young Marc learns valuable lessons about discipline, confidence, and becoming his best self - perfect for kids looking for an empowering and relatable read. My oldest son read this last year and absolutely loved it!
Other books in the series:
- Marc's Mission: Way of the Warrior Kid (Book 2) by Jocko Willink
- Way of the Warrior Kid III: Where There's A Will... (Book 3) by Jocko Willink
Caleb's Story by Patricia MacLachlan
The third book in the beloved Sarah, Plain and Tall series, Caleb’s Story offers a touching continuation of this pioneer family’s journey. With its heartfelt prose and themes of forgiveness and family, it’s a perfect wintertime read that can stand alone.
The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls Wilder
A classic for January, The Long Winter chronicles the Ingalls family’s struggle to survive one of the harshest winters on the prairie. With its vivid descriptions and themes of perseverance and family, this timeless story is a must-read for middle grade readers.
January Family Read-Alouds
January is the perfect time to snuggle up with a great book and enjoy family read-aloud time! This month, I’ve selected stories that are perfect for cozy winter evenings. Whether you’re stepping into the magical world of Narnia, rediscovering the charm of Winnie the Pooh, or exploring the pioneer days with Little House in the Big Woods, there’s something here for every family to enjoy. Below, you’ll find a mix of timeless classics and heartwarming tales to make your January reading extra special!
I can't think of a better time of year to step through the wardrobe into the land of Narnia. If you've never read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe to your children, grab a copy and cozy up for a memorable literary adventure. Perfect for all ages, but enjoyed most by ages 6+.
The Complete Tales & Poems fo Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne
Join Pooh, Piglet, and the rest of the Hundred Acre Wood in heartwarming adventures full of humor and timeless wisdom. These gentle tales are perfect for cozy read-aloud moments. January is a wonderful month to enjoy these stories because January 18 is National Winnie the Pooh Day (A.A. Milne's birthday)!
Don’t miss our favorite audiobook version for extra fun! My 3-year-old has listened to this every afternoon for over 2 years!
Out of Darkness: The Story of Louis Braille by Russell Freedman
Discover the inspiring story of Louis Braille, whose determination and ingenuity gave the gift of literacy to millions of blind individuals. A powerful read-aloud to celebrate resilience and innovation during National Braille Literacy Month.
More January Family Read-Aloud Options
A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond - Michael Bond's birthday is on January 13!
January Books for Mom
I can’t forget about mom! I’ve rounded up some of my favorite books to help you kick off the year feeling inspired and ready for what’s ahead. Whether it’s diving into a classic like Little Women, making small but powerful changes with Atomic Habits, or finding fresh ideas for family life with The Read-Aloud Family, these books are perfect for January. From devotionals to practical wisdom, I hope you’ll find something that inspires you at the start of this new year!
Once Upon a Wardrobe by Patti Callahan - While your kids are enjoying the magical land of Narnia this month, try this historical fiction about the inspiration behind The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. It weaves together a heartwarming story of family, faith, and the life of C.S. Lewis, making it a perfect read for anyone who loves Narnia.
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon - I wish I could read this book for the first time again! It portrays one of the most beautiful marriage relationships I've ever read in a fictional book.
These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant - Go in blind and thank me later ;)
Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod - I'm a night owl through and through, but I need to be an early bird for the sake of my family (and my sanity). This book gave me practical tips and tricks to wake up before my kids.
The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra Adachi - One of my favorite "self-help" books. I think every woman should read it.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey - A classic best-seller for a reason!
Atomic Habits by James Clear - Everyone should read this book!
Streams in the Desert: 366 Daily Devotional Readings by L.B. Cowman - January is the perfect time to choose a devotional to guide you through the year. While I’m not a huge fan of devotionals in general, Streams in the Desert has been a faithful companion I’ve returned to year after year. Its timeless reflections and Scripture-based encouragement offer hope and strength for every season of life.
The Read-Aloud Family by Sarah Mackenzie - Is reading aloud to your family one of your New Year's resolutions? This book is a wonderful guide to creating a family culture centered around stories, offering practical tips and inspiration for bringing the joy of reading into your home. (excellent on audio)
You Need a Budget by Jesse Mecham - If you’re looking to get your finances on track this year, You Need a Budget (YNAB) is a game-changer. This book explains the principles behind the budgeting software my entire family swears by. It’s practical, easy to follow, and truly transforms the way you manage money—helping you save, spend wisely, and feel confident about your financial future. If you’d like to give YNAB a try, you can check it out with a free 34-day trial here. Using my link will give you a free month if you decide to subscribe after your free trial!
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