There aren't that many good and free reading websites for young readers out there. Here are my picks for the 3 best reading websites for kids up to 11 plus some honorary mentions: 1. OverDriveThe OverDrive app connects your PC, tablet, eBook reader or phone to your local library. It lets you borrow digital titles and makes it super-easy to browse the catalog and see customized recommendations. As a big fan of the "trip to the library" I was sceptical about whether I needed to digitalize yet another part of our life but the app is very good and a great complement to getting actual books out. On top of that, it connects your child to the whole library so they can try out many different books to their heart's content and save you money all the while. The first step is to install the OverDrive program on your computer or other device and then search for and log into your library online. This means you need an existing library card – but library access is a great thing for every reader anyway. Depending on where you live, children usually get library access for free (or at least at a reduced rate) and the expense is minimal compared to the price of buying books instead. Installing OverDrive is not difficult. A good place is to start here. 2. Oxford OwlOxford Owl has a free eBook library for children up to about 11. You need to register for a free account and then you can read the books in a browser on your tablet or PC. 3. Epic!Full access to the Epic! reading website requires a subscription but the Basic version is free and allows you to read one book per day from a fairly limited selection. If your children are under 12, it's worth signing up for free to try it out. Kids will enjoy reading their books and "hatching" eggs as a reward. If you want to upgrade, the Unlimited subscription costs 9.99 US Dollars per month or 79.99 US Dollars per year for the entire library of 40,000 books, videos and audiobooks. Honorary mentionsOther free reading material for young readers online Check out these age-appropriate non-fiction websites:
Great nature and science topics for older primary school kids:
More challenging content for more mature young readers:
Online choose-your-own-adventure storyOlder primary school kids and middle schoolers who like puzzles will get a kick out of this "choose your own path" adventure based in Ancient Egypt. Egyptian Escape: Can you find your way out of the spooky pyramid? Read comics onlineThe GoComics website is a treasure trove of hundreds of comic strip favourites such as:
TakeawaysThe best long-term solution to getting free access to books is to become a member of your local library. Children are often free (although that depends on your location). Adding OverDrive gives you direct access from home to read eBooks on your devices. Don't forget second-hand book shops and the book section of charity and thrift stores. In the UK, Oxfam Book Shops are often as well-stocked and well-sorted as a library with great prices and a constantly changing selection. Take a look at the free reading material on Epic and Oxford Owl and consider a subscription. For shorter content, get into online comics. Keep reading! Take a look at these excellent free reading websites for teenagers
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