Fifty-Two Story Talks to Boys and Girls   By: Howard J. (Howard James) Chidley (1878-1966)

Fifty-Two Story Talks to Boys and Girls by Howard J. Chidley is an absolutely delightful collection of short stories aimed at engaging young readers and captivating their imagination. This book is an excellent resource for parents, teachers, or anyone who wishes to instill strong moral values and life lessons in children.

One of the standout features of this book is the author's ability to strike the perfect balance between entertainment and education. Each of the fifty-two stories offers a unique lesson or moral, delivered through relatable characters and engaging narratives. From tales of bravery and kindness to stories that emphasize the importance of honesty and perseverance, Chidley skillfully weaves these lessons into absorbing and entertaining plots.

What sets this book apart from others of its kind is the author's evident understanding of children's psychology and his ability to connect with young readers on their level. Chidley's conversational tone and creative storytelling techniques effortlessly draw children into each story, making them feel like a part of the action. Additionally, the author's use of vivid descriptions and colorful language paints a vivid picture in the reader's mind, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Moreover, Chidley's storytelling style is not confined to a single genre or theme. The book features a diverse range of stories, including adventure, fantasy, historical, and contemporary tales, catering to various interests and preferences of young readers. This variety ensures that there is something for everyone, and each story holds unique lessons to be learned.

The book's organization is also commendable. With fifty-two stories divided into weekly readings, it provides an excellent resource for parents or teachers looking to introduce consistent reading habits in children. The brevity of each story is ideal for young readers with short attention spans, allowing them to easily digest and reflect upon the moral lessons presented. Furthermore, the inclusion of discussion questions at the end of each story encourages critical thinking and fosters meaningful conversations between parents and children.

In conclusion, Fifty-Two Story Talks to Boys and Girls by Howard J. Chidley is a charming collection of stories that both educate and entertain young readers. Chidley's skillful storytelling, relatable characters, and valuable life lessons make this book a must-have for anyone looking to expand their child's literary repertoire. With its diverse range of stories and thought-provoking discussion questions, this book is an invaluable resource for parents and educators alike.

First Page:

No department of Christian literature is of more importance for the future of the Church than that which seeks to enlist the children in the service of Christ. Mr. Chidley, by his gifts and experience as a pastor and a teacher of the young, is eminently fitted to contribute towards this most vital phase of Christian activity. His successful career in the Central Congregational Church of Brooklyn, where I shared the privilege of his valuable co operation, and in the Trinity Church of East Orange, New Jersey, of which he is now the beloved and honored pastor, bespeak the merits of this series of addresses to Boys and Girls. They are at once an efficient protest against the Protestant neglect of the young and a remedy for that neglect. Parents, instructors, and guardians of the juvenile members of our Churches will be wise to read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest the teachings and exhortations presented here. It is a book of absorbing interest, and the little folks and those of older years can not fail to be both profited and delighted by it... Continue reading book >>