I taught my kids to read in my native language, it was fairly easy as my language is very phonetic. Then DS picked up BOB BOOKS and started reading. Just like that. Bob Books were followed by Dr. Seus, and then chapter books. Never an issue, never a problem. He is actually a speed reader at this point. With DD it was a process, but fast and absolutely painless.
I have always read to my kids tons, I still do.