Literary Selections for Families to Read Together

Welcome to Ms. Bailey's Classroom Literacy page! Here, we focus on providing resources for 3rd-grade reading development. Discover engaging literary texts and activities to boost your child's comprehension and love for reading.

“Henry and Mudge and the Forever Sea” by Cynthia Rylant

Summary: Henry and his beloved dog, Mudge, head to the beach for a fun-filled day by the sea. They play in the sand, splash in the surf, and enjoy a lovely picnic, taking in all the sights, sounds, and sensations of a day at the ocean.
Why It’s Great: Gentle, descriptive writing supports vocabulary growth. The story’s clear theme of friendship and exploration encourages discussion about feelings and new experiences.
Questions to Ask Before, During, or After:

  • Before reading: “What do you think Henry and Mudge might enjoy at the beach?”

  • “Have you ever been to the ocean? What did you feel, hear, or see?”

  • During reading: “What are Henry and Mudge doing now? How are they feeling?”

  • “Look at the words the author uses to describe the sea—what words stand out?”

  • After reading: “What was your favorite part of their beach day?”

  • “How did Henry and Mudge show they were good friends?”

“The Hundred Dresses” (adapted version) by Eleanor Estes

Summary: Wanda, a quiet girl in class, claims she has 100 dresses at home, but she's teased by her peers. Later, her classmates learn about her situation in a way that teaches them about empathy, kindness, and standing up for others.
Why It’s Great: This story introduces a powerful theme—empathy—through realistic characters and situations. It promotes discussions about feelings, fairness, and personal responsibility.
Questions to Ask Before, During, or After:

  • Before reading: “What does it mean to 'stand up' for someone?”

  • During reading: “How do the other kids react to Wanda’s story about the dresses?”

  • “Why do you think Wanda stays quiet in class?”

  • After reading: “Have you ever felt left out like Wanda? What would you do if you were her friend?”

  • “What did Wanda’s classmates learn about how we treat others?”

“The Paper Bag Princess” by Robert Munsch

Summary: Princess Elizabeth plans to marry Prince Ronald, but a dragon kidnaps him and burns her castle—and her dress! Undeterred, Elizabeth dons a paper bag and outsmarts the dragon to save the prince. In the end, she realizes she’s better off without someone who judges her by her appearance.
Why It’s Great: This twist on traditional fairy tales empowers students to think about bravery, resourcefulness, and true friendship. It includes fun vocabulary and invites conversations about expectations and self-worth.
Questions to Ask Before, During, or After:

  • Before reading: “What do you think a princess might do if things don’t go her way?”

  • During reading: “How does Elizabeth plan to rescue the prince?”

  • “Who do you think is cleverer—Elizabeth or the dragon?”

  • After reading: “Why didn’t Elizabeth want to marry Prince Ronald anymore?”

  • “What does this story teach us about what makes someone a true friend?”