Learning a new language can be a challenging experience, especially for kids.
However, reading novels can help them improve their language skills while enjoying a good story. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 7 best novels for kids in French to learn French.
1. Le Chat Bottรฉ by Charles Perrault
Publishing Year: 1697
Genre: Fairy Tale
Difficulty Level: Beginner
Short Resume:
Le Chat Bottรฉ is a classic French fairy tale that tells the story of a clever cat who helps his master, a poor miller’s son, gain wealth and status by using trickery and wit. The story features simple, accessible language, making it ideal for young learners.
Reasons to Read for Kids:
- Introduces basic vocabulary in a fun and engaging way.
- Teaches the value of cleverness and resourcefulness.
- Perfect for developing listening skills and story comprehension.
- Ideal for beginners in French, with a simple narrative and repetitive phrases.
2. Lโรcume des Jours by Boris Vian
Publishing Year: 1947
Genre: Surrealism, Romance
Difficulty Level: Advanced
Short Resume:
In Lโรcume des Jours, a young coupleโs love is put to the test as the wife falls ill to a mysterious disease. The bookโs surreal style makes it a unique and imaginative read. Behind Vianโs inventive writing, there are deeper themes on life, love, and relationships.
Reasons to Read for Kids:
- Explores profound themes like love and friendship in an imaginative way.
- Expands vocabulary through creative and varied language.
- Stimulates thought about the surreal and abstract concepts of life.
- An excellent introduction to more complex literary styles, suitable for advanced readers.
Bonus: Lโรcume des Jours was also made into a film, with French stars like Audrey Tautou.
3. Le Petit Nicolas by Renรฉ Goscinny
Publishing Year: 1959
Genre: Humor, Childrenโs Literature
Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Short Resume:
Le Petit Nicolas is a delightful collection of short stories about a mischievous boy named Nicolas and his everyday adventures with his friends. Itโs a humorous book that will keep kids entertained while helping them learn new words and expressions.
Reasons to Read for Kids:
- Provides a humorous and light-hearted view of childhood and friendship.
- Engaging stories that will captivate young readers and encourage them to read more.
- Perfect for learners just starting French, with simple dialogues and repetitive vocabulary.
- Encourages social interaction, as kids can relate to the characters and situations.
4. Les Trois Mousquetaires by Alexandre Dumas
Publishing Year: 1844
Genre: Historical Fiction, Adventure
Difficulty Level: Advanced
Short Resume:
Set in the 17th century, Les Trois Mousquetaires follows the young d’Artagnan as he joins forces with the famous Musketeers of the Guard to embark on thrilling adventures filled with intrigue, duels, and political drama. The book is full of action and helps kids discover French history and culture.
Reasons to Read for Kids:
- Exciting adventure that promotes values like friendship, courage, and loyalty.
- Introduces historical events and figures in an accessible way for younger readers.
- Encourages an interest in French history and culture.
- Suitable for more advanced readers due to its complex language and narrative structure.
5. Le Grand Meaulnes by Alain-Fournier
Publishing Year: 1913
Genre: Coming-of-Age, Romance
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Short Resume:
This coming-of-age novel follows a young boy, Franรงois, who becomes enchanted by a mysterious figure, Augustin Meaulnes, and his pursuit of a lost paradise. Itโs a poignant tale of love and youthful ideals, written in simple language.
Reasons to Read for Kids:
- Explores the themes of idealism, love, and the loss of innocence.
- Develops a rich emotional vocabulary and deeper understanding of feelings.
- Great for introducing kids to more reflective and philosophical literature.
- A suitable read for intermediate learners looking to expand their vocabulary.
6. Le Petit Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupรฉry
Publishing Year: 1943
Genre: Philosophy, Childrenโs Literature
Difficulty Level: Beginner
Short Resume:
Le Petit Prince is one of the most beloved childrenโs books in the world. It tells the story of a young prince who travels through space, meeting eccentric characters along the way. Written in a simple yet poetic language, this book is filled with life lessons and moral reflections.
Reasons to Read for Kids:
- A simple yet profound narrative that teaches the importance of looking beyond appearances.
- Full of whimsical illustrations that enhance the storytelling.
- Easy to read and understand, perfect for younger or beginner French learners.
- Promotes self-reflection and the development of emotional intelligence.
7. Le Tour du Monde en Quatre-Vingts Jours by Jules Verne
Publishing Year: 1873
Genre: Adventure, Science Fiction
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Short Resume:
This adventure novel follows Phileas Fogg, a British gentleman who wagers that he can travel around the world in just 80 days. Packed with excitement, this book introduces kids to the concept of global exploration and adventure.
Reasons to Read for Kids:
- Full of thrilling adventures that will captivate young minds.
- Introduces kids to different cultures and geography through the protagonistโs travels.
- Expands vocabulary with its detailed descriptions of the world and travel.
- Perfect for kids with an interest in science fiction or adventure.
Conclusion
Reading French literature is a wonderful way for kids to improve their language skills and discover French culture. At L’Atelier An Phu, we offer an extensive library with books for all ages, from beginners to advanced readers, ensuring that your child can find the perfect story to develop their French skills.
If you’re looking for personalized support, our language classes and tutoring services are designed to help children learn French in an engaging and effective way.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your child thrive in language learning!ย
