The Storytime Box

What's in the box: One age-appropriate children's book, an activity sheet tied to the story, literacy tips for parents and small extras such as stickers, bookmarks, toys or a craft.

The Storytime Box is a monthly children's book subscription for kids from babies up to age 8 and older. You pick from four box options by age, then pay month to month or prepay for three or six months. The three-month prepay saves $10, and the six-month prepay includes a free box. The company says teachers choose the books. Each box pairs one book with an activity sheet, literacy tips for parents and extras such as stickers, bookmarks, toys or craft projects. Monthly plans start at $21.99 plus $6.99 shipping, which comes to about $29 a month for one book and its add-ons. That is more than buying the book on its own. You are paying for the guided activities and the fun of a surprise title, not for the number of books. Families with more than one child can choose a Family Duo or Family Trio box, which covers up to three kids in one shipment. Boxes usually ship in the first week of the month, and you must order by the 15th of the month before. The site does not say much about past titles or how books are matched to a child beyond age bands. If you have specific authors or themes in mind, ask before you subscribe. For a simple reading routine with young kids, it is a reasonable choice.