Books have the power to transport us to new worlds, inspire creativity, and foster a love for learning. No matter your age, there’s no denying that books can bring joy and adventure into our lives. For young readers, engaging with books has numerous benefits, including improved vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills.
In celebration of the joy that books can bring to young readers, we’ve compiled a list of 35 journal prompts designed to help kids reflect on their favorite stories, characters, and themes. Encourage your child to write in their journal and enjoy exploring these literary-themed questions together.
1. What is your favorite book? Write about what makes it special.
2. Who is your favorite character from a book and why?
3. Write a letter to a character from one of your favorite books.
4. Describe an adventure you would like to go on with one of your favorite storybook characters.
5. If you could be any character from a book, who would you be and why?
6. What is your favorite book genre (fiction, non-fiction, mystery, fantasy) and why?
7. Write about the most exciting part of a book you recently read.
8. If you could write a sequel for one of the books you’ve read, what would it be about?
9. What book did you dislike at first but grow to love later?
10. Write a story based on the title of a book you’ve never read.
11. Write about how a book affected or changed your life.
12. If you could have any magical power from a book you’ve read, what would it be and why?
13. Write about a character who inspired you to face obstacles in your own life.
14. Describe your ideal reading spot.
15. Rewrite the ending of one of your favorite books.
16. Who is your favorite author and what do you like about their books?
17. What book do you wish everyone in the world could read? Why?
18. Write a review of the last book you read.
19. Write a letter to your favorite author, explaining how their work has inspired you.
20. Compare and contrast two books, highlighting their similarities and differences.
21. How do you choose which book to read next? Describe the process.
22. Write about a life lesson you’ve learned from a book.
23. Create a new character for a book you’ve read and describe their role in the story.
24. What three books would you take with you on a deserted island and why?
25. Describe your favorite fictional world from a book.
26. Write about a time when a book made you laugh or cry.
27. If you could time travel, which literary period would you visit? Why?
28. If you had to live in the world of one book for a week, which would it be and why?
29. What books do you want to read in the future?
30. Adapt your favorite story into a movie or TV show — who would play the characters?
31. If you could ask your favorite author one question, what would it be?
32. Write haiku poems about three of your favorite books.
33. What aspects of reading bring you the most joy?
34. Describe how reading improves your imagination and creativity.
35. How will sharing books with others continue to spread joy?
