Great Expectations

My husband recently finished reading the Dickens classic “Great Expectations” to our older kids, whose ages are 7, 9 and 11. While the language isn’t always easy, they absolutely loved the story! That’s the great thing about reading aloud to kids – even if their own reading ability is lower they can still enjoy and mostly understand books pitched at a much higher level. In fact, doing this challenges and stretches their comprehension, setting high expectations (mind the pun!) and enabling them to appreciate great stories with substance. Not to mention the wealth of moral lessons to be learned from the characters! Reading aloud is something both my husband and I do a lot of. It’s wonderful enjoying stories together and it’s such a quality way to spend family time.

As we finished each section of the book “Great Expectations”, we allowed the kids to watch the 1989 TV version featuring Anthony Hopkins as Magwitch. I was a little concerned at first that the dark scenes at Miss Havisham’s house would scare them, since they are pretty creepy. But it turned out to be well worth watching (with minimal scariness) and fairly true to the actual story. Scott and I later watched another version – the 2011-2012 mini series – which was nowhere near as good, despite having vastly improved cinematography. It was also much less appropriate for kids.

This experience has certainly encouraged us to keep reading the classics aloud to our kids – and I would encourage others to do the same! Currently I’m reading “The Lord of the Rings” to them each morning while they draw or do copywork. Set aside time in the day for reading aloud, and enjoy the experience alongside them!