One of the treats of childhood is the stories children are told. The Disney classics, Hans Christian Andersen, Mother Goose, and Dr. Seuss are all remarkable stories in their own right. Opening up a child's imagination is a shared experience between the storyteller and the listener.
Teaching a child to read is one of the greatest gifts you can give. Time, patience, and a good story are really the only ingredients required.
And remember: one day, your child may read to you.