Giving your child a love of reading is a wonderful gift but not always easy.

Books are magical in my opinion. They have the power to take you on adventures, introduce you to new worlds, teach you new skills and let you dream of wonderful places.

Finding your first book can be challenging so here are a few ideas to help you on your way. Once you have found a book that you love, finding the next and the next will become easier.

1. Read something silly.

Everyone loves to laugh and there are many great books written to make you giggle.

2. If you love movies, try reading the books of your favourite movies.

The books are always better in my opinion because they have more detail and your imagination works far better than any movie studio.

3. Try a graphic novel.

These are written like a comic and are in a great range of genres to interest all types of readers. They are great if a thick chapter book looks daunting because the text is broken up into smaller sections and there are often wonderful illustrations.

4. Read books that you can relate to.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid is a great series and the layout of the book made it easy for reluctant readers to tackle a chapter book. Many kids have chewed through this series and been lost for their next read at the end. So you could also try:

Middle School by James Patterson (so far 7 books)

Big Nate by Lincoln Pierce

Dork Diaries by Rachel Renee Russell

Dear Dumb Diary by Jim Benton

Timmy Failure by Stephen Pastis

You could also try the Tom Gates series and the Tree House series. Great books and very funny!

5. Don't forget Non-Fiction books.

Not everyone loves fiction (made up stories) and learning about something that interests you like a sport or the planets is a great start - it's still reading after all.

6. Read Aloud.

There is a saying that readers are born on the laps of their parents.  So choose a book that looks good and read it aloud at night times.

7. Choose a book that YOU like.

Don't get hung up on what you should read or what others are reading but what you like. Finding a book is very selective, which is why there are so many books. Not every book suits every person. Start a book that you feel comfortable reading regardless of the level.

8. Make a snuggly place at home in your room.

Fill it with pillows, blankets, teddies and make it a night time habit to read there for even just 15 minutes a night. I'm sure soon, you will find yourself there longer and longer.

9. Use your librarian.

He or she knows books and can make suggestions to help you.

10. Enjoy yourself!

Open your mind to books and see what you find. I'm sure it will surprise you!