Books that feature Strong Family Ties
In our world today the family unit is so misunderstood and our children are in need of good examples of a healthy family, whether that be a mother and child relationship, a sibling bond, an adopted child, or a full house full of kids. These are the books that I own that I would say represent aspects of a family life well. I have separated them by age/reading level and also added some ideas for hands on experiences and a way to connect with nature.
I've separated them by age/ reading level. Some of these can absolutely be moved earlier if read aloud together. Books like Anne of Green Gables or Treasures of the Snow often shine brightest when experienced side-by-side, where you can pause, reflect, and let the story settle into the heart—not just the mind.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you choose to make a purchase. I only share resources and ideas that I truly love and that support joyful, meaningful learning for you and your family.
Early Elementary (Read-Aloud or Independent 6–8)
- The Wild Robot-A robot wakes up alone on a wild island and learns to survive among animals. As she adapts, she discovers what it means to belong, care, and even love.
- The Trumpet of the Swan-A voiceless swan learns to communicate by playing a trumpet. Through his journey, children see perseverance, creativity, and the beauty of finding your own way.
- The Family Under the Bridge-A grumpy old man living on the streets of Paris has his life changed when he meets a struggling family. It’s a gentle reminder of compassion, belonging, and unexpected love.
Upper Elementary (Ages 8–10)
- All-of-a-Kind Family-Five sisters grow up in a close-knit Jewish family in early 1900s New York. Their everyday life is filled with traditions, small lessons, and the warmth of home.
- The Penderwicks-Four sisters spend a summer full of adventure, mischief, and growing up. It’s a charming celebration of imagination, sibling bonds, and simple childhood joys.
- Little House on the Prairie-A pioneer family leaves everything behind to build a new life on the open prairie. Through hardships and simple joys, children see what courage, faith, and family love look like in everyday life.
Upper Elementary to Middle School (Ages 9–12)
- Little Lord Fauntleroy-A kind-hearted American boy unexpectedly becomes an English lord. His gentleness and goodness slowly soften the hearts of those around him—showing how character can change lives.
- Forest World-Told in poetic verse, this story follows a young girl in Cuba who forms a deep bond with nature. It invites children to slow down and notice the beauty and wisdom of the natural world.
Middle School (Ages 10–13, deeper themes)
- Treasures of the Snow-Set in the Swiss Alps, this story follows children learning about forgiveness after a terrible accident. It gently points to the healing power of grace and reconciliation.
- Star of Light-In a small Moroccan village, a blind boy and a poor girl discover hope and truth through hardship. It’s a tender story about seeing with the heart and finding light in darkness.
- Tanglewood Secret-a troubled girl named Ruth and her kind brother Philip, who struggle with life under a strict aunt while their parents are away. Through adventures, hardship, and a tragic event, Ruth learns about the “Good Shepherd” (a Christian message), leading to personal change and a lesson about love, faith, and sharing that truth with others.
- Anne of Green Gables-An imaginative orphan girl finds a home—and herself—on Prince Edward Island. Her story is full of wonder, growth, and the beauty of seeing the world with fresh eyes.
Upper Middle School / Teen (12+)
- 📖 O Pioneers!-A strong young woman leads her family through the challenges of settling the American frontier. It’s a story of resilience, sacrifice, and deep connection to the land.
Because I love a living education where kids love to learn, I like to incorporate hands on activities and nature study into our days. Here are some great ways you can do that with each book!
The Wild Robot
Hands-on:
- Build a simple “robot” from recycled materials
- Practice simple survival skills (building a shelter with sticks, tying knots)
Nature:
- Observe animal habitats—how do they build homes?
- Spend quiet time outside just noticing (sounds, patterns, rhythms of nature)
The Trumpet of the Swan
Hands-on:
- Make a simple instrument (homemade horn or whistle)
- Write or draw your own “voice” story—how do you express yourself?
Nature:
- Visit a pond or lake to watch birds
- Sketch birds in a nature journal
The Family Under the Bridge
Hands-on:
- Build a small bridge with blocks or craft sticks
- Practice an act of kindness (bake, give, serve someone quietly)
Nature:
- Visit a local park with a bridge or stream
- Talk about shelter—who needs it and why it matters
All-of-a-Kind Family
Hands-on:
- Cook a simple traditional recipe together
- Create a family tradition or weekly “family day”
Nature:
- Visit a local market or walk through your town observing daily life
- Nature journaling focused on “ordinary beauty”
The Penderwicks
Hands-on:
- Build a fort or treehouse
- Put on a little play or write a summer adventure story
Nature:
- Spend long, unstructured time outside (true free play)
- Climb trees, explore fields, go on “adventures”
Little House on the Prairie
Hands-on:
- Churn butter or bake bread from scratch
- Try a simple handcraft (sewing, candle dipping)
Nature:
- Visit a farm or open land
- Watch a sunset and talk about life without modern conveniences
Little Lord Fauntleroy
Hands-on:
- Practice intentional manners and kindness
- Write a kind letter to someone
Nature:
- Visit a garden or historical home
- Observe beauty and order in nature
Forest World
Hands-on:
- Write poetry inspired by nature
- Paint or sketch leaves, trees, and animals
Nature:
- Slow nature walks—focus on one small area deeply
- Learn names of local plants or trees
Treasures of the Snow
Hands-on:
- Act out the story or key scenes
- Talk about forgiveness—maybe write and release something (tear/bury paper)
Nature:
- If possible, play in snow—or substitute with a “winter day” theme
- Take a quiet walk and reflect on peace and reconciliation
Star of Light
Hands-on:
- Create a simple map of Morocco or study another culture
- Blindfold activity to understand perspective and trust
Nature:
- Night walk under the stars
- Talk about light vs. darkness—both physically and spiritually
Anne of Green Gables
Hands-on:
- Press flowers or start a small garden
- Practice descriptive writing—“Anne-style” imagination
Nature:
- Name places in your surroundings (like Anne does!)
- Picnic outside and enjoy beauty intentionally
O Pioneers!
Hands-on:
- Study land, farming, or simple homesteading skills
- Talk about perseverance and long-term goals
Nature:
- Walk open land or fields
- Observe seasons changing and how land shapes life
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