Best All-Time Children’s Books

Every Tuesday is Finance & Family Day at Zen Habits.

Reading to your kids is one of the all-time best things you can do with them, and for them. I love reading to my kids, and they love reading with me. It is some of the best quality time ever, and sharing a good book with a child is just a wonderful feeling.

I’ve compiled a list of my all-time favorite children’s books — a list that can start any child’s library. It’s a starting point, to be sure — I’m sure you can think of many more to be included. But these are books I truly love (and my kids do too) and I think most kids and parents will love them. These are mostly time-tested classics, so there might not be too many surprises here, but sometimes it’s useful to be reminded of books we’ve forgotten about.

For Younger Readers
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Harold Crockett. One of my most, most favorite books for younger kids. Great imagination, great character. I still wish I could be Harold.

Go, Dog. Go!, by P.D. Eastman. Often the book that has taught my kids to read. Warning: they might ask you to read this an infinite amount of times. But that’s a good thing for them.
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault. The thing I love about this book is its rhythm. It’s so fun to read. Also teaches about the alphabet.
Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice Sendak. I can never get enough of this book. It is truly awesome. Great drawings, great imagination. If I had to choose just 10 books on this list, this would be one of them.
Goodnight Moon, by Margaret Wise Brown. Kids just love this book. Perfect for toddlers.
Corduroy, by Don Freeman. One of my favorite books as a little kid. This lovable teddy bear will always have a special place in my heart.
Guess How Much I Love You, by Sam Mcbratney. I love you all the way to the moon and back! Fun to read this with your kids, and then later compete to see how much you love each other.
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, by Laura Joffe Numeroff. This was a favorite for my kids. I love the drawings.
The Complete Adventures of Curious George, by H.A. Rey. He’s now an international icon, but Curious George has always been one of the most lovable characters in literature.
In the Night Kitchen, by Maurice Sendak. This is Sendak at his best. He has such a wonderful drawing style, and can tell stories with the best of them.
Horton Hatches the Egg, by Dr. Seuss. Speaking of the best of them, Dr. Seuss is it. He’s a legend, of course, and everything he wrote is amazing, so it’s really impossible to choose, but I love this Horton book, as well as the next two by Seuss. This book is characteristic of Seuss’s early days.
There’s a Wocket in My Pocket!, by Dr. Seuss. A great tongue-twister book, this is the epitome of much of his silly, fun stuff.
The Lorax, by Dr. Seuss. His most socially conscious book. Although many of his books have a message, this is the most overt. It talks about the dangers of industrialism and environmental damange, in such an easily understood manner that any kid could get it.
The Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein. If Seuss is the best, Silverstein is right behind him. If I had to list just 10 books here, this book would be one of them. Such a sweet, sad, true book, with great drawings of course.
The Five Chinese Brothers, by Claire Hutchett Bishop. I read this as a little kid, and forgot about it until rediscovering it with my kids in recent years. It’s a classic, and will be loved by any kid.
Where the Sidewalk Ends, by Shel Silverstein. Classic Silverstein, this book and the next are full of incredible poems and drawings that will delight any reader, young or old.
A Light in the Attic, by Shel Silverstein. More from perhaps the greatest children’s poet of all time.
The Missing Piece, by by Shel Silverstein. OK, I should stop with the Silverstein, but I really cannot get enough of him. There’s actually a series of books along the lines of the Missing Piece, all of them with interesting life lessons, and wittily drawn. Read them all.
The Story of Babar, by Jean De Brunhoff. Another classic, this was a staple of my childhood, and just as good today as 30 years ago.

For Middle Readers

James and the Giant Peach, by Roald Dahl. I don’t know how he does it, but Dahl has a way of telling stories that is just magical. He creates such real and deep characters, little kids who you cannot help but love and empathize with. This and the next two books are among his greatest, but one should not rule out BFG, his poetry or any of his other stories.
Matilda, by Roald Dahl. Perhaps my favorite Dahl book. While reading this book, you want to have Matilda as a friend, and during the time you are with her, she is your friend.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, by Roald Dahl. A classic, of course, and yet another poor kid who inevitably enters your heart.
The Little Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupery. Originally published in French, this classic is so unique, I cannot really describe it. If you haven’t read it to your child, please do.
Charlotte’s Web, by E.B. White. Warning: this book will make you and your child cry. But it is worth the sadness for the wonderfulness you will discover.
The Borrowers, by Mary Norton. What a fun and adventurous book. Every kid will love this.
Stuart Little, by E.B. White. This is an admirable little character that will delight all children.
Harriet the Spy, by Louise Fitzhugh. Written in the hard-boiled detective style, this is just a lot of fun.
Encyclopedia Brown Solves Them All (Encyclopedia Brown), by Donald J. Sobol. This is actually a series of books about Leroy Brown, a brilliant kid who solves neighborhood crimes. I could not get enough of this as a kid, and my son loves it too.
Magic Tree House Series, by Mary Pope Osborne. A very long series (over 30 last time I counted) of fun, adventurous and educational books. It covers stuff kids love, like dinosaurs and ninjas and knights and wizards, and makes history come alive. My son is in love with this series.
Junie B. Jones series, by Barbara Park. Another great series, this one appeals more to girls who are beginning to read.
The Ramona series, by Beverly Cleary. Yet another series, this one appeals to both boys and girls. I loved it as a kid.
How to Eat Fried Worms, by Thomas Rockwell. Now on the big screen, this book has portrayed elementary school life accurately for several generations of kids.
Freckle Juice, by Judy Blume. This author, Judy Blume, has such an insight into the young mind that any child, young or old, will identify with her characters. This book, and the next, are just two samples from her lovely collection — any Judy Blume book will be excellent.
Superfudge, by Judy Blume. Your kid will crack up at this book, and have a lot of fun with the characters.
The Great Brain, by John D. Fitzgerald. One of my all-time favorite series as a kid. I recommended it to my son, who loves to read but thought this would be boring. He fell in love with it. Told you so!
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, by E. L Konigsburg. A timeless novel, the characters in this book come alive for a great adventure.
The Book of Three (The Chronicles of Prydain), by Lloyd Alexander. This is actually a series of books, all of which are so perfect you don’t want them to end. This tale about a pig-keeper’s assistant has been entertaining young readers for generations, and is a must-read.
Westmark Trilogy, by Lloyd Alexander. Another series by a true master, this is for slightly older kids than the last series, but just as amazing.

For Older Readers

The Chronicles of Narnia Box Set, by C.S. Lewis. What can I say about this series that not everyone knows? Nothing really, except that every new generation falls in love with it as if it were the first time. And for them, it is. Be sure your child is among them.
Eragon (Inheritance, Book 1), by Christopher Paolini. One of the more recent books on the list, this was an instant classic. Though it’s about dragons, it will appeal to both boys and girls.
Harry Potter Paperback Box Set (Books 1-6), by J.K. Rowling. This series has been super-hyped in the media … and in my opinion, it lives up to the hype. I got into the series a little late, but read every book to my daughter and am now going through it for a second time with my son. These are the type of books that will hook children on reading.
The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkein. How I love this book, and always have. I loved it before I was able to get into the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and though the trilogy surpasses the original Hobbit, this little book has a special place in my heart. It will in your child’s heart as well.
Watership Down, by Richard Adams. This book so enchanted me when I first read it, in middle school, that I read it several times during my teen-age years after that, and even once or twice in adulthood. It leads you through such an adventure, such an emotional journey, and from the perspective of a few rabbits!
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding. This is required reading for most middle school students, and rightfully so. As a teen-ager, reading about an island controlled by kids was just too cool.
To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee. This is a gripping story with great characters. You can’t go wrong with this one.
The Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger. This book hits the teen-ager reader with a pop! between the eyes. A main character that swears! And we’re encouraged to read it. Salinger creates a character that is true, and timeless, and captures the experience and sensibilities of youth extremely well. I will always love him for this book.
Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Trilogy, by Ann Brashares. I haven’t actually read this book, but my daughter did, and loved it. It got her reading again, after a brief hiatus, and for that, I have to recommend the book. Plus I liked the movie.
The Giver, by Lois Lowry. A kind of chilling book, but engaging nonetheless.
Bridge to Terabithia, by Katherine Paterson. Classic story being rediscovered by a new generation because of the recent movie, this story about two fifth graders who create a secret kingdom in the woods called Terabithia will stir your heart.
A Wrinkle in Time, Madeleine L’Engle. This warm, loving book has been cherished by so many. Follow the Murry family in its adventures in all the books of this series.
Inkheart, by Cornelia Caroline Funke. This writer has such a great imagination, and this ode to books and book lovers will be highly enjoyed by your child. Also read the Thief Lord.

What are your favorite children’s books? Let us know in the comments.

Best All-Time Children’s Books

Every Tuesday is Finance & Family Day at Zen Habits.

For Younger Readers
Harold and the Purple Crayon by Harold Crockett. One of my most, most favorite books for younger kids. Great imagination, great character. I still wish I could be Harold.

Go, Dog. Go!, by P.D. Eastman. Often the book that has taught my kids to read. Warning: they might ask you to read this an infinite amount of times. But that’s a good thing for them.
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom, by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault. The thing I love about this book is its rhythm. It’s so fun to read. Also teaches about the alphabet.
Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice Sendak. I can never get enough of this book. It is truly awesome. Great drawings, great imagination. If I had to choose just 10 books on this list, this would be one of them.
Goodnight Moon, by Margaret Wise Brown. Kids just love this book. Perfect for toddlers.
Corduroy, by Don Freeman. One of my favorite books as a little kid. This lovable teddy bear will always have a special place in my heart.
Guess How Much I Love You, by Sam Mcbratney. I love you all the way to the moon and back! Fun to read this with your kids, and then later compete to see how much you love each other.
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, by Laura Joffe Numeroff. This was a favorite for my kids. I love the drawings.
The Complete Adventures of Curious George, by H.A. Rey. He’s now an international icon, but Curious George has always been one of the most lovable characters in literature.
In the Night Kitchen, by Maurice Sendak. This is Sendak at his best. He has such a wonderful drawing style, and can tell stories with the best of them.
Horton Hatches the Egg, by Dr. Seuss. Speaking of the best of them, Dr. Seuss is it. He’s a legend, of course, and everything he wrote is amazing, so it’s really impossible to choose, but I love this Horton book, as well as the next two by Seuss. This book is characteristic of Seuss’s early days.
There’s a Wocket in My Pocket!, by Dr. Seuss. A great tongue-twister book, this is the epitome of much of his silly, fun stuff.
The Lorax, by Dr. Seuss. His most socially conscious book. Although many of his books have a message, this is the most overt. It talks about the dangers of industrialism and environmental damange, in such an easily understood manner that any kid could get it.
The Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein. If Seuss is the best, Silverstein is right behind him. If I had to list just 10 books here, this book would be one of them. Such a sweet, sad, true book, with great drawings of course.
The Five Chinese Brothers, by Claire Hutchett Bishop. I read this as a little kid, and forgot about it until rediscovering it with my kids in recent years. It’s a classic, and will be loved by any kid.
Where the Sidewalk Ends, by Shel Silverstein. Classic Silverstein, this book and the next are full of incredible poems and drawings that will delight any reader, young or old.
A Light in the Attic, by Shel Silverstein. More from perhaps the greatest children’s poet of all time.
The Missing Piece, by by Shel Silverstein. OK, I should stop with the Silverstein, but I really cannot get enough of him. There’s actually a series of books along the lines of the Missing Piece, all of them with interesting life lessons, and wittily drawn. Read them all.
The Story of Babar, by Jean De Brunhoff. Another classic, this was a staple of my childhood, and just as good today as 30 years ago.

For Middle Readers

James and the Giant Peach, by Roald Dahl. I don’t know how he does it, but Dahl has a way of telling stories that is just magical. He creates such real and deep characters, little kids who you cannot help but love and empathize with. This and the next two books are among his greatest, but one should not rule out BFG, his poetry or any of his other stories.
Matilda, by Roald Dahl. Perhaps my favorite Dahl book. While reading this book, you want to have Matilda as a friend, and during the time you are with her, she is your friend.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, by Roald Dahl. A classic, of course, and yet another poor kid who inevitably enters your heart.
The Little Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupery. Originally published in French, this classic is so unique, I cannot really describe it. If you haven’t read it to your child, please do.
Charlotte’s Web, by E.B. White. Warning: this book will make you and your child cry. But it is worth the sadness for the wonderfulness you will discover.
The Borrowers, by Mary Norton. What a fun and adventurous book. Every kid will love this.
Stuart Little, by E.B. White. This is an admirable little character that will delight all children.
Harriet the Spy, by Louise Fitzhugh. Written in the hard-boiled detective style, this is just a lot of fun.
Encyclopedia Brown Solves Them All (Encyclopedia Brown), by Donald J. Sobol. This is actually a series of books about Leroy Brown, a brilliant kid who solves neighborhood crimes. I could not get enough of this as a kid, and my son loves it too.
Magic Tree House Series, by Mary Pope Osborne. A very long series (over 30 last time I counted) of fun, adventurous and educational books. It covers stuff kids love, like dinosaurs and ninjas and knights and wizards, and makes history come alive. My son is in love with this series.
Junie B. Jones series, by Barbara Park. Another great series, this one appeals more to girls who are beginning to read.
The Ramona series, by Beverly Cleary. Yet another series, this one appeals to both boys and girls. I loved it as a kid.
How to Eat Fried Worms, by Thomas Rockwell. Now on the big screen, this book has portrayed elementary school life accurately for several generations of kids.
Freckle Juice, by Judy Blume. This author, Judy Blume, has such an insight into the young mind that any child, young or old, will identify with her characters. This book, and the next, are just two samples from her lovely collection — any Judy Blume book will be excellent.
Superfudge, by Judy Blume. Your kid will crack up at this book, and have a lot of fun with the characters.
The Great Brain, by John D. Fitzgerald. One of my all-time favorite series as a kid. I recommended it to my son, who loves to read but thought this would be boring. He fell in love with it. Told you so!
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, by E. L Konigsburg. A timeless novel, the characters in this book come alive for a great adventure.
The Book of Three (The Chronicles of Prydain), by Lloyd Alexander. This is actually a series of books, all of which are so perfect you don’t want them to end. This tale about a pig-keeper’s assistant has been entertaining young readers for generations, and is a must-read.
Westmark Trilogy, by Lloyd Alexander. Another series by a true master, this is for slightly older kids than the last series, but just as amazing.

For Older Readers

The Chronicles of Narnia Box Set, by C.S. Lewis. What can I say about this series that not everyone knows? Nothing really, except that every new generation falls in love with it as if it were the first time. And for them, it is. Be sure your child is among them.
Eragon (Inheritance, Book 1), by Christopher Paolini. One of the more recent books on the list, this was an instant classic. Though it’s about dragons, it will appeal to both boys and girls.
Harry Potter Paperback Box Set (Books 1-6), by J.K. Rowling. This series has been super-hyped in the media … and in my opinion, it lives up to the hype. I got into the series a little late, but read every book to my daughter and am now going through it for a second time with my son. These are the type of books that will hook children on reading.
The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkein. How I love this book, and always have. I loved it before I was able to get into the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and though the trilogy surpasses the original Hobbit, this little book has a special place in my heart. It will in your child’s heart as well.
Watership Down, by Richard Adams. This book so enchanted me when I first read it, in middle school, that I read it several times during my teen-age years after that, and even once or twice in adulthood. It leads you through such an adventure, such an emotional journey, and from the perspective of a few rabbits!
Lord of the Flies, by William Golding. This is required reading for most middle school students, and rightfully so. As a teen-ager, reading about an island controlled by kids was just too cool.
To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee. This is a gripping story with great characters. You can’t go wrong with this one.
The Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger. This book hits the teen-ager reader with a pop! between the eyes. A main character that swears! And we’re encouraged to read it. Salinger creates a character that is true, and timeless, and captures the experience and sensibilities of youth extremely well. I will always love him for this book.
Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Trilogy, by Ann Brashares. I haven’t actually read this book, but my daughter did, and loved it. It got her reading again, after a brief hiatus, and for that, I have to recommend the book. Plus I liked the movie.
The Giver, by Lois Lowry. A kind of chilling book, but engaging nonetheless.
Bridge to Terabithia, by Katherine Paterson. Classic story being rediscovered by a new generation because of the recent movie, this story about two fifth graders who create a secret kingdom in the woods called Terabithia will stir your heart.
A Wrinkle in Time, Madeleine L’Engle. This warm, loving book has been cherished by so many. Follow the Murry family in its adventures in all the books of this series.
Inkheart, by Cornelia Caroline Funke. This writer has such a great imagination, and this ode to books and book lovers will be highly enjoyed by your child. Also read the Thief Lord.

What are your favorite children’s books? Let us know in the comments.

Brilliant comments (139)

Jeri Dansky Says:

March 12th, 2007, 2:38 am

You’ve already named many of my favorites (Charlotte’s Web, The Little Prince, and To Kill a Mockingbird) - but I also have a few to add.

The Paper Bag Princess, by Robert Munsch, with art by Michael Martchenko

The Big Orange Splot, by Daniel Pinkwater

The Mysteries of Harris Burdick, by Chris Van Allsburg

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (and Through the Looking Glass), by Lewis Carroll

Leo Says:

March 12th, 2007, 3:48 am

Great books, Jeri! Thanks for the comment!

todd Says:

March 12th, 2007, 4:47 am

You’ve got quite a span of ages here. My two daughters are 7 and 4.

I’d add at least one more Munsch book, Stephanie’s Ponytail.

Elmer, by David McKee, is about a patchwork elephant that thinks he wants to be like everyone else.

The Story of Ferdinand is another classic at our house.

We’ve just discovered Boo and Baa, by Lena and Olaf Landstrom, and can’t get enough.

My Father’s Dragon, by Ruth Stiles Gannett, about how Elmer Elevator rescues a baby dragon on Wild Island, tricking Lions, crocs, boars, and other animals along the way.

Well, these are the ones that come to mind…

Kathy Moore Says:

March 12th, 2007, 6:57 am

Leo, can I just say how much I love this blog? Seriously, I found it through another that I found through another, but of the three, yours is my fave! Thanks for the book list, we have lots of these, but will put some of the others on our library list.

Have a great week!

Leo Says:

March 12th, 2007, 7:02 am

@Todd: Thanks for your picks! There are some I haven’t read yet and look forward to finding them at the library.

@Kathy: Thanks for the wonderful comment! I appreciate that, and I’m glad you’ve found the blog useful. Also, feel free to email me anytime (or leave a comment) with suggestions for stuff you want to read about. I love getting that kind of input!

Lauren Says:

March 12th, 2007, 7:44 am

My favorite picture book is, appropriately, Zen Shorts, by Jon J. Muth. It’s about a panda named Stillwater who imparts zen koans in story form to several young children. It’s an absolutely beautiful book. It just came out here in the States last year.

I second the recommendation of The Big Orange Splot. Another fantastic book!

I read a lot of books for teenagers, and am writing one myself. My favorites are Looking For Alaska, by John Green, I Am The Messenger, by Markus Zusak, and Staying Fat For Sarah Byrnes, by Chris Crutcher. The first two are quite recent; the third was published in 1992, I believe.

Loving the blog, by the way. This is my first comment, but I’ve been reading your archives for the last few weeks. Thanks for all the advice and inspiration.

Elizabeth Says:

March 12th, 2007, 9:52 am

I’m stunned that you don’t have The Very Hungry Caterpillar among the books for the youngest - roughly 3 generations have been through that one, following the holes in each page.

And I absolutely loved the Laura Ingalls Wilder books which I first read from when I was about 8.

SpiKe Says:

March 12th, 2007, 10:56 am

My faves as a kid were always the Redwall series and Animals Of Farthing Wood series of books.

Organize IT

Jenn Says:

March 12th, 2007, 12:57 pm

His Dark Materials Trilogy is a great series for older readers as well.

Great list! If you like children’s literature in general, be sure to check out Jen Robinson’s Book Page for her great reviews of books and news about children’s literature.

Anonymous Says:

March 12th, 2007, 13:45 pm

Ah, I love “James and the Giant Peach,” as an adult. The movie version is great too.

kamal Says:

March 12th, 2007, 13:48 pm

Ah, I love “James and the Giant Peach,” as an adult. The movie version is great too.

Also, I met the author of “Walter the farting dog.” Parents and kids seem to love the book. I love the title.

Leo Says:

March 12th, 2007, 14:01 pm

Great books, guys! Thanks for all the comments. Actually, I wanted to put Zen Shorts on there, because of its beauty and the simplicity of the way its philosophy is presented, but just couldn’t knock off any of the others. Same with Hungry Catepillar, which I also love. There are others which regretfully didn’t make the list, and many of them are just as worthy of the titles I had here, but in the end, it’s a very personal choice, and I went with those that had the most meaning to me and my kids. The Redwall series is a favorite of my son’s right now, although I never read it as a child. Another that I didn’t put on there that is truly awesome is “Love That Dog”. That’s a must read.

Thanks, everyone, for the comments so far. It’s fun to hear everyone else’s favorites!

Anonymous Says:

March 12th, 2007, 14:48 pm

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds. Ages 5-9, but great message for all ages.

Dinah Says:

March 12th, 2007, 18:13 pm

Verdi by Janell Cannon is my favorite
Excellent art work.
My life story in less than 40 pages.
Great sight. I have recognize all but 3 titles.
Remember to read to your kids every day.
Gma Dinah

stayfly Says:

March 12th, 2007, 18:13 pm

great post!

CK Says:

March 13th, 2007, 14:24 pm

A book I liked a lot when I was growing up is The Wind in the Willows, by Kenneth Grahame. An oldie but goodie!

Chris Says:

March 14th, 2007, 3:18 am

“The Phantom Tollbooth” by Norton Juster

The wordplay is just fantastic!

wwax Says:

March 15th, 2007, 20:54 pm

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. I bought this book for all my neices and nephews when they were born.

Carole Says:

March 18th, 2007, 5:44 am

You’ve got most of my family’s favorites, along with those suggested by your readers. There’s just a few more I’d like to add. I lean toward the lyrical:

Is Your Mama a Llama by Deborah Guarino
Where’s My Teddy? by Jez Alborough
Skippyjon Jones by by Judy Schachner
and most of all:
I Love You Forever by Robert N. Munsch

zenhabits Says:

March 18th, 2007, 7:47 am

Thanks for the suggestions, Carole … I thought about adding I Love You Forever, because it’s an excellent book, but for some reason it creeps me out a bit. I don’t know why. I would still recommend it to others.

EJW Says:

March 25th, 2007, 12:41 pm

I remember loving Judith Viorst’s books as a kid, especially Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. We already have a copy of The Tenth Good Thing abotu Barney for when our cat gets old.

zenhabits Says:

March 25th, 2007, 17:09 pm

Hi EJW … those books sound great. Thanks for sharing. - leo

Amy Says:

March 26th, 2007, 0:40 am

Great List! My 3.5 month old is loving anything by Sandra Boynton–great rhymes and rhythms. I agree that “I Love You Forever” is a creepy book. Sneaking into your 40-something son’s bedroom to rock him while he’s asleep is just not healthy. But I have to express an unpopular opinion…I don’t like The Giving Tree. The tree is female and the boy, obviously male. So the female only feels happy when she gives to the boy/man, until she has nothing left and the boy/man just takes and takes and takes and doesn’t ever consider the Tree’s feelings. That’s fine for a little boy to be selfish, but not a grown man. I realize the implications about gender roles are subtle, but once I realized they were there, the book lost all appeal to me. Corduroy, on the other hand, was and is one of my absolute favorite books.

zenhabits Says:

March 26th, 2007, 0:48 am

Thanks Amy. Yes, my kids went through a Sandra Boynton phase too. It was perhaps too much for me, though, as I am not a fan of hers anymore. :)

As for your critique of the Giving Tree, I agree that what you say is there, but consider this for a moment: I think the author agrees with you, and is trying to send the message that the selfishness of the boy is not good, while the selflessness of the tree is to be admired. That’s what I got out of it. The book doesn’t endorse the grown man’s selfishness, IMO. In fact, for me, that was the main lesson of the book — the contrast between the selfish person in the relationship and the selfless person. I grew up wanting to be more like the tree than the boy. And that’s the sad thing about the boy — it wasn’t until he was a very old man that he realized that what he truly needed for happiness was there in front of him all along, and that he’d been so selfish he didn’t see that.

OK, I’ll stop now. :) Thanks for your comment!

Blythe Says:

March 26th, 2007, 5:43 am

The Westing Game and others by Ellen Raskin are incredibly clever. Also, Noel Streatfield’s Ballet Shoes.

What a fun list!

zenhabits Says:

March 26th, 2007, 6:09 am

Blythe … I completely forgot about the Westing Game until you mentioned it … I loved that book when I was younger! Thanks for the reminder … I’m going to recommend it to my kids. Haven’t read Ballet Shoes but I’ll check it out. Thanks! - leo

Amy Says:

March 26th, 2007, 11:25 am

I see your point about TGT, and I’m glad that you wanted to be more like the tree than the boy. Giving is great, but the problem I have with the book is that the tree was not only happy to give, but happy to give EVERYTHING she had of herself and get nothing in return, not even a visit from the boy she loved. Women/girls in this society are often taught through subtle and not so subtle messages that the only way to be happy and valued by men is to be completely selfless. Like I said, giving is one thing, complete selflessness is another. Plus, I don’t think most parents read it with the depth that you have, and probably none discuss the inequality of the relationship between the tree and the boy with their children.

I totally agree about sandra boynton, though…fun for a while, but not classic.

maggie Says:

March 26th, 2007, 13:58 pm

Great list - thanks. I know a lot of the books, and like them, which means that I’ll probably like the ones I don’t know.

zenhabits Says:

March 26th, 2007, 14:56 pm

@Amy: I’ll concede your point about the message sent to women and girls. I think it was unintentional, but in the end that doesn’t matter if that’s the message that girls are picking up on, even subconsciously. I’ve tried to teach my daughters otherwise, but I’m not the only teacher in their lives … books and TV and friends and teachers all contribute. Thanks for pointing this out.

@Maggie: glad you liked the list! I definitely recommend every book on this list … I think you’ll love them all. Check them out at your local library! - leo

Melissa Says:

March 26th, 2007, 18:03 pm

I LOVE this list. I’m proud to say my family has all the young reader books. I’ve enjoyed sharing them with my two boys. Thanks for the list for older kids as well. We’re just putting our big toes in that pond and I’m excited about these recommended new reads. One way my children have come to know some older books, such as the Magic Treehouse series has been through books on tape. It makes a great alternative in the car when most station are little too mature for preschool and first grader ears.
My husband forwarded your blog to me because he loves my slight, okay huge addiction to building our reading library. Thanks for the list!

zenhabits Says:

March 26th, 2007, 19:18 pm

Hi Melissa … thanks for the great comment! If you own all the young reader books on the list, your kids are truly lucky and off to a great start in life. Good job! I like the suggestion for books on tape for kids … I haven’t actually tried this. Thanks! - leo

KChristieH Says:

March 26th, 2007, 19:59 pm

Great list! I have teens, so my kids have already had a chance to appreciate the books you and others have mentioned. One of our perennial faves was “I’ll Teach My Dog 100 Words.” I can still recite it!

I’ve put together a list of “Non-Teen Books for Teens” on my blog at http://www.kchristieh.com/blog/?page_id=150. They’re great for kids that have already read or who aren’t very interested in typical teen literature. Any suggestions you might have to my list would be most welcome!

Erik Mallinson Says:

April 10th, 2007, 15:12 pm

Excellent list! I’ll be sure to print this out and consult it when looking for new books for my son.

inspirational quote maniac Says:

April 13th, 2007, 5:02 am

That is a great list.
When I was small I don’t read many books because my family was poor.

I guess it’s a good time to buy some of those to read myself.
BTW, don’t you have any international list, for example books from Japan or India ..

One of those famous Japanese book for kids would be Totto-Chan, a Little Girl at The Window

Leo Says:

April 13th, 2007, 5:14 am

Hi inspirational … interesting … I didn’t include international books because I really don’t know many of them. But I’d be very interested in hearing more of them you think should be on the list!

Katy Says:

April 18th, 2007, 1:34 am

Hi, a bit late here (I just found your blog today and have been enjoying your archives), but I can’t resist putting in a vote for one of my favorite books - “Once on a Time” by AA Milne. It’s not one of the Pooh books, it’s a fairytale with extremely human characters and a great sense of humor.

It was always one of my favorites at bedtime as a child, and even as an adult I’ve never grown tired of it. I reread it several times a year. Definitely one of those books that has something for all ages to appreciate.

You may have trouble finding it (I’m pretty certain it’s out of print), but if you ever come across a copy, don’t hesitate to pick it up. :)

Leo Says:

April 18th, 2007, 1:42 am

Hi Katy … welcome to Zen Habits. That sounds like an excellent book! I’m going to look around for it, because I’m sure my kids will love it. Thanks!

Sherton Says:

May 6th, 2007, 10:28 am

The Dot and the Line: A Romance in Lower Mathematics by Norton Juster

a great story about persistence

Eric Says:

May 6th, 2007, 14:08 pm

I read most of those through the varying ages of my childhood, but the one I still own and read at least once a year is “The Little Prince.” Glad to see it on the list. =)

Mase Says:

May 6th, 2007, 18:29 pm

One book I’d very highly recommend for Middle Readers is:

“Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls

It remains one of my most beloved childhood books (along with “The Yearling” by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings and “Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card).

Hien Says:

May 7th, 2007, 7:37 am

I’d recommend The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle for youngsters. Its a great first book teaching kids about the days of the week, food, counting and of course the lifecycle of a caterpillar/butterfly.

Phillip Says:

May 7th, 2007, 10:44 am

The Velveteen Rabbit was surely only omitted by accident… My favorite story of love, devotion, and triumph over death ever..

Wendy Says:

May 7th, 2007, 12:36 pm

I loved books when I was little and I still do. One of my favorite set of books were Frog and Toad. I had the little records to go along with them, and listened and read those books over and over. Love your blog.

Christine Says:

May 9th, 2007, 14:59 pm

“One Morning in Maine” by Robert McCloskey is lovely, too.

“Mr. Popper’s Penguins” by Richard Atwater & Florence Atwater is super for older kids.

Thanks for blogging - and reminding me of kiddy book fun!

Samantha Says:

May 9th, 2007, 20:22 pm

Where’s Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs??

becky Says:

June 2nd, 2007, 10:30 am

hi there - love the list the idea and the blog! :)
Had a scroll down and didnt see ‘winnie the pooh’ in there..!
Its been disneyed in the past few years but the book is still great, also a friend of mine had a book called the ‘tao of pooh’ which made me see pooh in a whole different way. My fave was always tigger but the stories of the egotistical rabbit trying to ’squash’ tiggers enthusiam and then being humbled are some of the best! For different ways of being and seeing the world and the effects we have on eachother in a simple way, and of friendship in a small world its perfect ! not to mention ‘poohsticks’….:)

Camille Says:

June 11th, 2007, 3:23 am

I love your list. I’ve read everything on it, shared most with my children depending on their tastes and continue to read them to the children I teach. As my own children are older now and I keep combing the bookshelves for quality literature for my girls, I do have some recommendations for older readers. Tamora Pierce is wonderful. Her Wild Magic series kept my daughters and I riveted. Then we had fun discussing the books. She has written other series as well, mostly directed to adolescent girls. They have powerful messages about being who you are regardless of what others expect you to be. Another author we like is Garth Nix. He wrote the Aborhensen series. These are relatively new books but have quickly attained “best of” status in my household.

Robert Says:

June 11th, 2007, 14:09 pm

While I do like many of the books you listed, I was struck by your choice of The Giving Tree, and with the choice to highlight it with a photo up front. It seems that someone has already commented on the messages that it directly conveys by displaying an unbalanced relationship between unbalanced beings.

The only value I can see in the book is the conversations that it can spawn about codependence, enabling, sacrifice, and the self. Sadly I do not think that many will engage the book that way and will instead take it with an either/or spirit.

Both the selfless tree and the self absorbed boy/man are to be pitied and neither is to be emulated.

Amy Says:

June 11th, 2007, 17:14 pm

Robert,

I glad to see someone finally agrees with me re: the giving tree! I often hesitate to express that opinion, as people take me for uptight and/or nuts.

Well said, thanks!

Liz Says:

June 12th, 2007, 9:13 am

Great list - one more to add -

The Penderwicks by Jane Birdsall

Liz Says:

June 12th, 2007, 9:33 am

oops - The Penderwicks By Jeanne Birdsall

Mica Says:

June 21st, 2007, 2:14 am

No Madeline? She was so brave and I looked up to her for that. Who wouldn’t love a french girl from paris who was not afraid of anything?

mothergeek Says:

June 24th, 2007, 11:13 am

I find peace and laughter here
These books made me stay up reading underneath my bedcover by flashlight when I was 4-12.
The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden
Julie of the Wolves Jean Craighead George
My Family and Other Animals Gerald Durrell
Jonathan Livingston Seagull Richard Bach
Red Zora Kurt Held
Pippi Longstocking Astrid Lindgren
Where the Wild Things Are Maurice Sendak
Spotty Margaret Rey (read it thinking about the writers background)
Tomorrow when the war comes John Marsden
Jules Verne
The Canterville Ghost Oscar Wilde
Hans Christian Andersen

Mary Says:

June 25th, 2007, 9:52 am

No mention of the “Little House on the Prairie” series? I loved those books as a kid. In fact, I still love them.

Although all of the books mentioned are good choices, for sure. :)

Chuck Says:

June 26th, 2007, 14:01 pm

The Jungle Book 1 & 2, and Ricky Ticky Tavi by Rudyard Kipling

Kimberly Says:

July 6th, 2007, 0:21 am

My personal favorite book is Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell. It’s an amazing story.

Sally Says:

July 10th, 2007, 21:56 pm

Make way for Ducklings

Mcgyver Says:

July 17th, 2007, 0:39 am

Do please read ‘My Side Of The Mountain’ by Jean Craighead George for your children. It is a wondrous book. A personal favorite in my grade school years was ‘Have Spacesuit Will Travel’ by Robert A. Heinlein. I have actually read both several times since then - A box of my old books and a one year old daughter (who likes to nap on daddy’s chest while he’s in the hammock) have made for a wonderful summer. For those close to high school and far beyond ‘West With The Night’ by Beryl Markham. I lack the ability to even describe how profoundly well she uses the English language.

Sarah Says:

July 25th, 2007, 10:37 am

Hello, I have just found your blog and this post. I love your blog and will definitely be browsing more in the future as I think it is great stuff. I read this post and the comments because I love books and always find it fascinating to read what other people in other countries put on their ‘must read’ lists. I agree with one of the people who commented that it is a shame to not see any translated childrens books on your list - I presume this reflects what is generally popular in the USA - it is similar in the UK. I am a British person living in Brazil and have recently discovered some amazing childrens literature here, which I had never heard of when I was a child in the UK. However, my personal favourites are indeed British, and by a writer you included on your own list: The Twits and The BFG by Roald Dahl.

Ross Says:

July 25th, 2007, 21:42 pm

I also recommend The Zen Tails books by Peter Whitfield. They can be found at http://www.zentails.com. These books are beautiful and very profound. My chldren love them to bits.

Michael Sanders Says:

August 7th, 2007, 10:02 am

All three of my pre-reader kids love “Dinosaur Roar”. It’s a great board book that, when read aloud, encourages the reader to be animated and engaging. Each page offers an illustrated contrast like fast and slow or strong and weak, etc.

http://www.amazon.com/Dinosaur-Roar-Board-Henrietta-Stickland/dp/0525458344/ref=pd_bbs_2/104-6966614-1524768?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1186495286&sr=8-2

meg Says:

August 16th, 2007, 21:47 pm

i’m a 19-year-old and i love all the books in your list. here are some other favorites that aren’t in your list:
- lloyd alexander (both for his westmark series and prydian chronicles)
- madeleine l’engle (i love all her books. more than just the time quintet. the austin series is really good too)
- orson scott card (ender’s game, shadow series)

i love the books that some of the others mentioned too. like the westing game. i think i first read that back when i was 10 or something. and the hobbit (!). i love the hobbit. it was my first introduction to pocketbooks, way back when i was 8. and i still love it :)

Greg Says:

August 26th, 2007, 8:39 am

Runaway Ralph! Pbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbpppttttt!!

artssmiley Says:

September 20th, 2007, 18:41 pm

Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert O’Brien
The Secret Garden by Francis by Frances Burnett

N'Awlins Kat Says:

September 22nd, 2007, 1:56 am

All of those are great books! I’m particularly partial to anything by Madeleine L’Engle, too; my daughter came home the other day from school asking to take my (very old) collection of L’Engle books to school; we’re in the middle of reading them, and she happened to mention to her 4th grade teacher that “A Wrinkle in Time” and “A Wind in the Door” tied in EXACTLY to what they were studying in religion class. Her teacher is planning to tie them in to the social justice, anti-discrimination, and free will concepts in their religion classes.

Her favorite as a small child was “Guess How Much I Love You?” We read that, literally, every single night for five years. I can quote the ENTIRE book. It’s beautiful, about a young bunny and his daddy, and the illustrations are terrific.

We’re about to start the “Little Women” series by Louisa May Alcott, and will follow through with all the rest of her books. “Jane Eyre” and “Wuthering Heights” by the Bronte sisters were also terrific (I leaned then, and still do, toward the classics). Also loved “Heidi” and “Hans Brinker and the Silver Skates,” I also liked all the Walter Farley “Black Beauty” books, and still have them. For older kids, “Summer of My German Soldier” and “The Distant Summer” are terrific books about World War II, and a great way to talk about war, injustice, etc.

So many others, too….our house is positively loaded with books; it’s a favorite pastime.

Jasi Says:

September 27th, 2007, 23:05 pm

Love this list.
@Amy: I’m with you on this, though. In our culture women are sometimes expected to give of themselves to detriment. It seems like a little thing, a sweet story, but children pick up everything.

Karen Says:

January 5th, 2008, 22:40 pm

Love this list! I wanted to add:
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn - read it several times in my adolescence
All of the Anne of Green Gables books
And while not classic, the Trixie Belden mysteries were fun and lighthearted - I had an aunt who bought me all the new ones.
I noticed one comment about “Mr. Popper’s Penguins” - brought back the memory of my mother reading this to me and my little sister…

Jill Billington Says:

January 6th, 2008, 16:44 pm

I love to find lists of favorite children’s books. I’ve got my own as well. I skimmed through the comments and didn’t see Frog and Toad stories anywhere so had to chime in. These stories are so full of wonderful lessons for kids and grown-ups alike. I do NOT tire of reading them to my own 3 boys.

Here are some more of my favs:
The Five-Dog Night written and illustrated by Eileen Christelow
Millicent Maybe by Ellen Weiss
A Harry the Dirty Dog Treasury by Gene Zion
Where the Wild Things Are written and illustrated by Maurice Sendak
Show and Tell Bunnies by Kathryn Lasky (pictures in this book are as equally charming as the words)
The Raccoon and Mrs. McGinnis by Patricia Miles Martin
the George and Martha books written and illustrated by James Marshall
Sly Little Bear and Other Bears by Kathryn Jackson
Tell Me What It’s Like to Be Big by Joyce Dunbar
Arthur’s Honey Bear written and illustrated by Lillian Hoban
the Little Bear books by Maurice Sendak
The Troll Music written and illustrated by Anita Lobel
Owl at Home by Arnold Lobel
The Biggest Bear by Lynd Ward

Matt Says:

January 8th, 2008, 10:59 am

Once of my favorite books to read with my daughter is “The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry and the Big Hungry Bear ”

when we started of reading it I would make sound effects as we went through the book. Now I read the book and my daughter does the sound effects - IT”S HILARIOUS!!

Good book.
http://www.amazon.com/Little-Strawberry-Hungry-Childs-Library/dp/0859533301

Julie Says:

January 10th, 2008, 13:41 pm

Okay, so I’m coming in a little late here, but I have to add two more essential authors: Richard Scarry and Beatrix Potter. My kids now love my old copy of Scarry’s “Best Story Book Ever”, and my “Treasury of Beatrix Potter”.

Great list! I’m sure we could all go on adding titles to it forever. This brought back some wonderful memories for me. I can’t wait until my children are reading on their own so I can share more of these titles with them!

elisaveth Says:

January 24th, 2008, 18:00 pm

You have named most of my favorite books as a child. As an adult reader I find that many of the books I like to read are also enjoyed by older children. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time is one such book. Jack Gantos has written several excellent books, including Joey Pigza Loses Control, and Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key. Jack’s Black Book Series, and Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging, are humorous for young teens. And classic books, such as Whistle for Willie and the Snowy Day, by Ezra Jack Keats, Caps for Sale, Mike Mulligan and His Steamshovel, and obiyoyo, by Pete Seeger are wonderful picture books for young children.

Jody Augustadt Says:

February 8th, 2008, 20:33 pm

for children 3-8:
Stella Luna - a famous fruitbat story that melts hearts

for middle schoolers and adults of all ages
True Adventures of Charlotte Doyle -
Phantom Tollbooth

QueenVelveeta Says:

February 10th, 2008, 14:09 pm

For upper elementary, nothing is better or funnier than the old Freddy the Pig series. I also love Mrs. Piggle Wiggle. For younger readers, may I recommend Jan Brett books? Children also love the Frog and Toad books.

Helen Says:

February 27th, 2008, 10:52 am

Nice books. But what about books with children of COLOR!

The Snowy Day comes to mind. . . .but there are more too!

Leo Says:

February 27th, 2008, 21:16 pm

@Helen … awesome comment. As a former child of color myself (I’m a brownie islander) I should have thought of that myself but I have to confess ignorance.

Any other suggestions you have would be greatly appreciated!

Kelly Says:

February 28th, 2008, 19:50 pm

You’ve listed so many of our favorites and I love all the other follow up recommendations. Just to add a few to the list:

-Puff the Magic Dragon by Peter Yarrow (my little girl loves to sing along and the illustrations in this book give it an uplifting ending)

-Little Pea by Amy Krouse Rosenthal (about a little pea who has to eat his candy before he can have his dessert of spinach)

-Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems (great expressions from simple drawings)

And for my older kids:

-the Bunnicula series by James Howe (about the bunny who they think is a vampire because he sucks out the juice out of vegetables)

-the Hank the Cowdog series by John R. Erickson (who is an amazing story teller; we’ve read this whole series–over 50 of them!–and we have passed many long car rides listening to his cd’s, which keep all of us laughing.)

:)
Kelly

Tab Says:

March 7th, 2008, 11:40 am

Dealing with Dragons by Patricia Wrede
About a smart, non-conforming princess who refuses to fit the stereotype of a normal princess and goes in search of adventure
Meant for 8-15 roughly but i still love reading it and i’m 24! Helped me accept my originality than conforming with the ‘in’ crowds in highschool.

Zal Says:

March 9th, 2008, 5:46 am

I’m absolutely surprised some Great American classics were missed, like “Robinson Crusoe” for example. The author(Defoe..I think..) wasn’t American but nevertheless it’s one of the most favorite stories for all children.
What about books by MARK TWAIN ?
Harriet Beecher Stowe’s “Uncle Tom’s Cabbin” ?
or wonderful stories by Fennimore Cooper ?
What happened to them ?
When I was a child I enjoyed them so much, these classics captured my imagination like nothing else.
These are the mothers and the fathers of all classics, and in my opinion should be encouraged to read before the modern classics. The american classics from 19th and first half of the 20th century are the foundation of the Great American literature. If not them, most of the above list wouldn’t exist.

Lucy Says:

March 10th, 2008, 18:48 pm

As a small child I loved Caps For Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina. As a pre-teen horse-crazy girl, I loved The Black Stallion and got hooked on the series. As a mother and elementary school teacher I discovered these delightful books:
One Monster After Another by Mercer Mayer (this book has a Typhoonigator!)
Anything by Don and Audrey Wood is wonderful: Quick as a Cricket, The Napping House, King Bidgood’s in the Bathtub (…”and he won’t get out!”).

What a great blog!

Jennifer Says:

March 15th, 2008, 14:42 pm

We have many of these books on our shelves too, and there are a few that you’ve inspired me to pick up. The book you find creepy, Love You Forever, is actually one of my favorites, and I’ve bought it in both English and Chinese. I get what you and others have said about how creepy it is for a woman to climb through her grown son’s window to rock him, but as we watch our kids grow and grow (and Grow!) to be too big to rock, don’t you sometimes wish they could be little again so you could cradle them in your arms? I think it’s about those wishes. My sixteen year old boy has, over the years, written the rhyme at the end of the story as a postscript in notes/emails to me, “Love you forever, like you for always, as long as I’m living, my mommy you’ll be.”

Kristin Says:

March 15th, 2008, 22:35 pm

MY ALL TIME FAVORITE BOOK …The Crane Maiden by Miyoko Matsutani. (Children’s book)

MC Dildey Says:

April 3rd, 2008, 15:42 pm

So many good books and good memories…
My additions are Cotton in my Sack and Strawberry Girl, both by Lois Lenski, Hitty, her first hundred years (about a doll, but what an adventure) by Rachel Field. A while back I discovered the Toot & Puddle books by Holly Hobbie about two pigs who are best friends and totally opposite. And, Tar Beach by Faith Ringgold, based on her quilt of the same name, about a young girl in Harlem, daydreaming on the rooftop of her family’s building.

So many more….

Duane Says:

April 4th, 2008, 11:54 am

I didn’t see all recommendations, but Tale of Despereaux deserves serious recognition for both young and middle readers.

Also, while I think it helps be a book on tape, my 9 and 7 year love Agatha Christie mysteries.

Thierry Says:

April 18th, 2008, 1:39 am

I would also recommand these 2 books:
“Johnathan Livingstone, Seagull” by Richard Bach
And
“the little prince” by Antoine de St.Exupery

Laurie Says:

April 18th, 2008, 23:27 pm

One of my favorite children’s books is called”Parts”. It’s about a boy who thinks his body is falling apart because he pulls lint from his belly, ear wax out of his ear, buggers out of his nose etc. It is a hoot. For the young chapter book reader, you’re right, you can’t beat Junie B. Jones. I’m a teacher and have had many Junie B’s in my classes. I also enjoy “Hank the Cow Dog”. That series is hysterical!

Jess Says:

April 30th, 2008, 14:33 pm

I’ve scanned through the comments and haven’t seen any mention of Steven Kellog (Pinkerton Behave, The Mysterious Tadpole, The Day Jimmy’s Boa Ate the Wash, Much Bigger than Martin, The Island of the Skog….)
http://www.stevenkellogg.com

Pinkerton and Friends is a steal of a bargain at Amazon - 336 page hardcover collection of stories for $20.

Also, Gordon Korman’s earlier work like the MacDonald Hall series, No Coins Please is snort-milk-out-your-nose funny. He’s started doing more adventure fiction lately, which I haven’t read.

He wrote his first MacDonald hall book in Grade 7 at the age of 12, published by Scholastic when he was 14…

http://www.gordonkorman.com

docdocwhosthere Says:

May 7th, 2008, 16:46 pm

Great list! Let’s add:

1. The Sky Jumps Into Your Shoes
It’s a sweet book about eveything the sky can do. Beautiful watercolor illustrations and this book is a lot of fun.

2. Murgatroyd’s Garden
This one is wonderful for young boys (~ 2 -5 or 6 yrs old, maybe). The story is about a boy who refuses a haircut repeatedly and what the fantastic consequences are.

Both of these books are out of print, but readily found on Amazon or B&N and other book sites. Really worth looking for!

Liz Says:

May 9th, 2008, 11:43 am

Great list of books! So many of them my 13 yr.old daughter and I enjoyed together. One of my favorite books from my childhood which I haven’t been able to locate is a story about a nice old truck called Rickety Boom. If anyone knows of the book or author I would love to hear from you. Even though she is 13 I would still like to share my favorite with her.

Yari Says:

May 12th, 2008, 14:03 pm

I know almost every book on the list and they really bring me back. I wanted to recommend 3 books for young readers that weren’t on the list. They are favorites at the childcare center were I worked.
THE KISSING HAND by Audrey Penn- good for kids starting school, kindergarten.
BREAD AND JAM FOR FRANCES by Russell Hoban and Lillian Hoban. A book for the pick child who always wants. A classic for me.
QUICK AS A CRICKET by Audrey Wood and Don Wood. The pictures are amazing.
Last, is ABIYOYO by by Pete Seeger it is an african folk tale. Kids love it. Its for 4 or 5 year olds, but even 2-3 year olds sit and listen. Especially if you do sound effects. When you get the book you’ll know what I mean.

Thanks

Kelly King Anderson Says:

June 11th, 2008, 1:23 am

I’m going to write down these titles for our Summer Reading List!! Thanks!!

My family’s favorites not listed?

Seven Silly Eaters about the value of teamwork/delegating and not doing all the work as parents/or letting your kids eat whatever they want!

What about Anne of Green Gables? Stargirl is awesome for teens!

kirsch Says:

June 18th, 2008, 9:09 am

joining in late but I know others will be looking for good suggestions for their kids as well - my mother works in an elementary library and loves to send me books for my son. The most recent, the one that I fell in love with was ” The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” about the “life” of a rabbit doll. Wonderful.

And when I was a kid, I loved the Olga da Polga books. An adventurous guinea pig :)

Lizzie Says:

July 6th, 2008, 16:46 pm

I see most of my favorites listed here. The only one that is missing from my list would be Susan Cooper’s series The Dark is Rising. I read it at least once a year as an adult.

Rhonda Lucadamo Says:

July 10th, 2008, 13:40 pm

I loved the list. I recently published a set of first readers called Miss Rhonda’s Readers. I would love you to take a look aat the website and tell us what you think. I have used them in my Montessori classroom for years and finally decided to publish them. They are also published using “green” paper and inks. Thanks Rhonda Lucadamo http://www.missrhonadasreaders.com

cooper Says:

July 16th, 2008, 23:40 pm

I just started reading you a couple of days ago from a shared google reader link.
Love it.

I am sorry to see “The Velveteen Rabbit” is not among these books. It has to be one of the greatest children’s books of all time.

Karlos Says:

July 23rd, 2008, 10:27 am

Agree! Books read in childhood and thanks to them all the child acquainted with this strange, even incomprehensible world. Lerning all through your favorite heroes and worrying over all difficulties with them. The child learns to distinguish between good and evil, good or ploho.The child growing.

Dan Says:

July 31st, 2008, 9:38 am

As a child I remember reading and loving most of the books on this list. I just have to say that I loathe the Judy B. Jones series. My friend’s 6 year old niece has asked me to read them to her before and the fact that they’re full of “baby talk” really irritates me. I attribute my vocabulary to the fact that I have been an avid reader all my life. It doesn’t seem healthy, to me anyway, for kids to have common spelling/pronunciation errors reinforced in print.

Conversely, I am surprised not to see A Series of Unfortunate Events on the list. These books are written for younger children yet held my attention when I read them in my twenties. Plus I love the way that they use words that children would probably not be familiar with and then define them in the context of the story. Highly recommended.

Charr Says:

July 31st, 2008, 11:11 am

If you’re looking for other fantasy series after you finish all the Harry Potters, try Susan Cooper’s “Over Sea, Under Stone” series or Ursula Le Guin’s Earth/Sea trilogy. Both are older series and are great reading.

Lindylou Says:

July 31st, 2008, 11:51 am

I’ve been an elementary school teacher for over twenty years and one book that kids consistently enjoy as a read aloud is “The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles” by Julie Andrews Edwards (You know, Mary Poppins!) When former students come back to visit, that book is always something they remember and loved.

Sarah Says:

July 31st, 2008, 17:21 pm

One of my all time favourite books when I was a kid was The Best Nest by P.D. Eastman. When I got into chapter books one of my favourites was Tom’s Midnight Garden by Phillipa Pearce.

Some other more recent greats are the Olivia series by Ian Falconer, Walter the Farting Dog by William Kotzwinkle, It’s Ok to Be Different by Todd Parr. I could go on and on and on…but I won’t. ;)

Thanks Leo, this blog is amazing.

Kelly Says:

July 31st, 2008, 17:42 pm

I’m glad someone mentioned “Seven Silly Eaters”. The illustrations capture the loving/craziness of a mom stretched thin who loves her children so much. My four kids (and I) have all loved this book.

My older boys (11 & 14) are really enjoying Rick Riordan’s series that starts with the “Lightning Thief”. They say it is a story with an interesting concept and “is just good!”

Thanks to everyone who is contributing to our family’s reading list!

Stephen Says:

August 1st, 2008, 4:59 am

What a fantastic list. Including the additions from so many comments. It just shows how much passion and enjoyment is derived from reading. It’s also one of the ways to really development a child’s imagination. Well, I think so.

My additions are:

Middle readers and adults - Catch 22 by Joseph Heller or any of the John Steinbeck books, but I remember Of Mice and Men at school. Magician by Raymond E Feist. Alternatively for a good mix of Tudor history; with a little artistic license, coupled with a murder mystery and great characterisation, try the Shardlake series by C J Sansom starting with Disolution. Enjoy.

Andrea Says:

August 1st, 2008, 12:35 pm

Lots of interesting suggestions here! I’d love to know what “classic” kids’ books you or your kids wound up disliking. For me, later Seuss is unbearably preachy. And I resent celebrity authors getting mediocre books published (Madonna, John Lithgow, and yes, Julie Andrews).

San Says:

August 2nd, 2008, 11:29 am

If you haven’t read Frederick by Leo Lionni, it’s a wonderful book for small children about an impractical mouse that really does prove to have a special gift.

Clare Says:

August 2nd, 2008, 14:11 pm

I “grew up” with Enid Blyton, who was a most definitely non PC writer.

My sister gave me “Journey to the River Sea” by Eve Ibbotsen for a 12-year-old non-native English speaker I was teaching. The heroine is called Maia, and the story (set in the Amazon) is completely compelling. I imagine it would be a good read for 8 years+ native English children.

Isabel Says:

August 4th, 2008, 23:33 pm

Some of my favorites when I was young:
- A Little Princess and The Secret Garden, by Frances Hodgson Burnett
- Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
- Little House series

Isabel Says:

August 4th, 2008, 23:34 pm

Oh, and I **LOVE** The Giving Tree. I loved it when I was young, I love it even more now that I’m a mom and understand the message a little better. Thanks for including it. :)

MFPMommy Says:

August 5th, 2008, 22:35 pm

WHY JUNIE B. JONES?????? All of the other books amazing. If there were no other good books in the world - fine. But what is so amazing that the bad grammar is forgivable!!

I absolutely thought that I was against censorship, but I ratted out the KG teacher at our school who was reading Junie B. to the kids instead of “My Father’s Dragon” or “Stewart Little” or any of the other great books on your list.

Wendy Says:

August 6th, 2008, 10:51 am

MFPMommy, have you actually read Junie B. Jones? ‘Cause they’re actually pretty hilarious. I have to admit that these books bugged me at first, but then my daughter kept reading me the various funny bits (and it’s pretty developed funny, actually) and I got over the grammar issue. Life’s too short to be snobby about books.

Actually I scrolled all the way down here to write that we love a couple of these books so much that we’ve painted them up on our daughter’s walls. I did Harold and the Purple Crayon (http://www.flickr.com/photos/gwendygay/604914537/) and Where the Wild Things Are.

Also To Kill a Mockingbird, Bridge to Terabithia and The Wrinkle in Time series are my all-time favorite books from when I was a kid.

Wendy Says:

August 6th, 2008, 10:55 am

Oh, forgot to mention that we love Terry Pratchett, who is strange and hilarious. Our favorites are Wee Free Men and the rest of that series. (He writes for adults too.)

The series inspired this…
http://wisdomofthemoon.blogspot.com/2008/05/weird-kid-wednesday.html?showComment=1212733920000

Mister Scratch Says:

August 12th, 2008, 9:02 am

For the small and strange child in your life I recommend Cowboy and Octopus, a series of short vignettes about friendship and honesty.

He has been mentioned before but anything by Mo Willems is good for you and your little one.

Richard Alexander Says:

September 4th, 2008, 8:12 am

“Old Turtle and the Broken Truth” is another classic, though I forget when it was written. It’s a beautiful tale that I’ve read to my kids a few times. It’s perfect for anyone who viists Zenhabits.

Avi Says:

September 16th, 2008, 21:11 pm

The Phantom Tollbooth and it’s obvious affection for the English language is great.

alis Says:

September 19th, 2008, 10:31 am

I agree with your list and am a huge fan of Roal Dahl, but I would also include “The Witches” by him. I am still witch-spotting to this day. Watership Down by Richard Adams is truly enchanthing, and “being tharn” is in my daily vocabulary now.
Anything by Tolkien is great. I also love Belgariad by David Eddings for the older ones.
I second the comment about The Animals of Farthing Wood by Colin Dann. It collected on my library for years before I read it as a kid, but I couldn’t put it down until I finished the whole series!

Sarah Says:

September 21st, 2008, 8:06 am

I recently moved back home for a little bit, and going through ALL of my old kids books was entertaining to say the least. One that I was most excited about was “In the Night Kitchen”. I read it to my boyfriend recently (we are both 21) and he thought it was hilarious, the pictures are amazing!! Thanks for an awesome list =D

Snowball Says:

October 3rd, 2008, 19:53 pm

I’m a children’s librarian and your list is very good. In fact, everyone has great suggestions. I want to add the Freddy the Pig series from Walter Brooks (creator of the character Mr. Ed). Those books are as clever and charming as all get out. For older children.

naturenut Says:

October 17th, 2008, 9:58 am

I adore Eric Carle and Jan Brett. Mr. Seahorse {Eric Carle} is a favorite at kindercamp. Has anyone mentioned the kissing hand? My girls grew up loving the Berenstein Bear books. Sooooo many good books!

Jonathan Drain, Dungeons & Dragons blogger Says:

November 12th, 2008, 0:53 am

I grew up reading Roald Dahl - I think every kid in the UK and Ireland did in the 80s and 90s. He’s a great storyteller.

Sandy Says:

December 2nd, 2008, 16:06 pm

Loved your list, and the comments added a lot too! I hope you’ll visit my free workshop for parents: Nurturing Your Young Reader. There are 12 lessons with over 40 great hands-on activities to share with young children, and there’s absolutely no obligation or catch. The class can be found at http://www.allinfoaboutreading.com/moodle.

The Happy Rock Says:

January 21st, 2009, 0:00 am

We are still in the early readers phase, but some of our kids favorites are the Lorax, I Love You Stinky Face, Bear Snores On, and Hansel and Diesel/Three Little Rigs

Prasanna Says:

January 21st, 2009, 21:56 pm

Being from India, I grew up reading a lot of Indian books. As a child, some of my favorite authors were Rudyard Kipling and RK Narayanan.

Every young Indian child has read books like: The Malgudi Days (short stories from a small south Indian village - also a hugely successful TV series), Jungle Book, Short Stories by Rudyard Kipling and stories of Akbar - Birbal and the Arabian Nights.

It’s only now, with so many bookstore chains springing up in the country that people are discovering a lot of other authors. I guess in here the tradition of folklore and regional authors is very strong.

Coming from the western region of India - Maharashtra - I grew up reading poems by Vinda Karandikar - funny poems about animals - some which I remember to this day! Later I discovered the joys of reading other Indian authors like Tagore’s short stories and Sathyajit Ray’s detective stories with his star detective - Feluda.

Also important were texts from Ramayana and Mahabharata that were converted into short stories for children. Chilhood reading for me was a fabulous melange of cultures, folklores and traditions.

I am glad to have had the opportunity to read books in various languages and from various regions in the country. It made me grow up with a certain curiosity and wonder about everything around me. Books can open a door to an entire universe which is yours to explore!

Jessica Says:

January 29th, 2009, 7:44 am

For the pre-teen / teen age:

Invitation to the Game

I went looking for this book for ages, not remembering the title. Google finally helped me find it. Picking it up ten years later and it’s JUST AS GOOD as the first couple times I read it.

Where the Wild Things are is another book that I reread as an adult and still absolutely ADORE!

Miranda Says:

January 29th, 2009, 20:36 pm

I’m so glad you included the Prydain series, because it’s so overlooked. My dad got it for me when I was little because he loves anything Welsh, and the plots of the books are amazing. It’s inspiring to think that an assistant pig keeper could end up saving the world!

Another book that I loved when I was little but that has been highly overlooked is The Voyage of the Basset. It melds Victorian sensibility with the wild world of ancient mythology, then ties it all together with beautiful ink and watercolor illustrations. It’s one of the most stunning picture books I have ever seen. Plus it’s a great gift for any Cassandra or Miranda who never sees her name in a book (like me).

The Personal Finance Playbook Says:

February 20th, 2009, 10:47 am

Excellent post. I absolutely love the little prince. For older readers, I would also add The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky. Probably around high school age would be the right time to read this one. It’s an excellent book.

Kay Says:

March 11th, 2009, 17:29 pm

I am SO glad Bridge to Terabithia, The Giving Tree, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Giver, and The Lorax were on your list - I loved those books growing up, but I appreciate their meanings even more now, and my heart aches even now when I read them.
I can still remember the books I read when I was younger that made me think, and want to know more - Search for the Shadowman (Lois Lowry), Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH (Robert O’Brien) Mr. Popper’s Penguins (Richard and Florence Atwater) and Hatchet (Gary Paulsen) were all books that I adored even while reading in school, and that I think both boys and girls could appreciate.
I’m still in college, and am not thinking about having kids for several more years, but reading this list made me think back on all the children’s books I love and got me excited about sharing them with my future kids. Thanks for that, and giving me a bunch more books that I hope to eventually read, “adult” or not :)

backspaced_boy Says:

March 18th, 2009, 17:02 pm

You might want to give Charlie and Lola book series a try. I’d also add Mary Poppins and Ernest Thompson Seton’s animal stories (e.g. Wild Animals I Have Known)

backspaced_boy Says:

March 18th, 2009, 17:19 pm

and this one of course:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=744JBwjrlKk

Amanda Says:

March 31st, 2009, 9:37 am

One of my favorites is Ella Enchanted. (Please don’t judge it by the movie! The book is so much more better.)

I also want to second almost any book by Orson Scott Card or Madeline L’Engle.

Someone asked about books we didn’t like, and two of my least favorite actually made the original list: Lord of the Flies and Catcher in the Rye. I found both to be depressing. I wouldn’t recommend them, especially to middle school students! I read Catcher in the Rye the first time in 9th grade and found it shocking and offensive. In 11th grade when I read it again for school, I understood it a little better, but still found it offensive.

If either of those books showed up on my middle school students reading list, I wouldn’t be very happy about it.

Autismus Says:

April 9th, 2009, 19:52 pm

I can recommend several books by Astrid Lindgren, “The neverending Story” and “Momo” by Michael Ende, “Red Zora” by Kurt Held, several books by Jostein Gaarder (his most well-known is “Sophie’s World”.

For little children: “Winnie the Pooh” and the books of Janosch (” The Trip to Panama”, “Little Tiger, get well soon” and “A Letter for Tiger”).

Donna Says:

May 1st, 2009, 0:21 am

So many great books so little time!!

This one’s a new favourite - Inaka Child’s Eyes - a beautiful book about a child that meets the adult version of herself and they enjoy an adventure together. It’s narrated on a CD so makes for great listening too. (you can only buy it on-line - http://www.inakaproject.com)

Diahris Says:

May 16th, 2009, 0:28 am

Nice books, but I don’t know where I can get those book in my country.

My favorite is a book about animal story or fabel

Jaime Says:

May 19th, 2009, 2:52 am

I know not every book can be listed, but

Koala Lou by Mem Fox

and

I Love You Stinky Face by Lisa McCourt

are big favorites around here, especially with the theme of “I love you no matter what you are, no matter what you accomplish, or don’t accomplish.?

I still can’t get through Koala Lou without crying.

Aldohas Says:

May 23rd, 2009, 15:25 pm

I’m just watching Inkheart movie (Brendan Frasier)
is that the same book from the movie?

Janet Chapman Says:

June 5th, 2009, 1:08 am

I just finished reading The BFG, by Roald Dahl to my 10 yr old son. Both that and The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tullane, by Kate DiCamillo, are the only books that my son wanted me to “read it again”, as soon as we finished!
He also enjoyed Mr. Popper’s Penguins, as did I because I actually had been to Antarctica as a travel consultant back in ‘83.
I also was a huge fan of West into the Night by Beryl Markham, though it’s for older readers.
There are so many good books both on your list and in the comments!! Our summer is set! Thank you!

free divorce papers Says:

June 5th, 2009, 3:44 am

The Little Prince… Chronicles of Narnia… Harry Potter Collection… just some of my favorite children’s books.

eCommerce Takeaway Says:

June 18th, 2009, 1:26 am

Charlie & The Chocolate Factory was one of my favourites as a kid - and I still have really old hardback copies of both that, and George’s Marvellous Medicine, which I am hanging onto..!

Babysitting Jobs Says:

June 21st, 2009, 17:52 pm

Ha that’s so funny, my daughter asks for Go Dog Go pretty much every night. We also love the children books by a Japanese author by the name of Taro Gomi: My Friends, The Bus Stops, and Spring is Here are some great books of his.

Fan Site Says:

June 25th, 2009, 17:41 pm

I’m just watching Inkheart movie (Brendan Frasier)
is that the same book from the movie?

prams Says:

June 29th, 2009, 0:50 am

Leo this is a truly wonderful list of books. I was surprised to see that so many of my childhood favorites are still amongst the list of popular kids books. I am glad the kids of today still get to read them.

My favorite of all of them is the one where an old lady and her sheepdog meet a cat. Is that on the list?

Thanks.

Angela Says:

July 1st, 2009, 20:28 pm

Love your selections, Leo. My daughter and I went through most of them.

The Giver was her all-time favorite. I would also add to your list the wonderful “Number the Stars” about the proud and fearless refusal of the Danish people to silently submit to the Nazi occupation of their island nation during WWII
The wonderful “Madeline was mentioned once by another reader, but deserves another mention. A girl who just says “poo-poo to the fierce tiger at the zoo is my kind of kid!
And the irrepressible “Eloise” was not mentioned once!
I do not remember the author, but “Christmas with Eloise” takes you on a dizzying romp with an undisciplined young girl living in a suite in New York’s famous Plaza Hotel who is allowed to behave exactly as she pleases by the indulgent housekeeper caring for her while Eloise’s mom is off on a Caribbean island with a man for the Christmas season. The fact that mom has left her little one to seek her own selfish pleasure is a sad overlay to this whimsical story of bright and loving child who, with the best of intentions always, manages to inconvenience, discommode, frustrate, and ultimately charm many of the other guests at the Plaza.
She is the antithesis of all of the “good girls” of literature, and yet she is not a bad girl herself.
Kids I have read this to (It is partly written in rhyme!) love it for the forbidden antics and exploits that Eloise innocently launches herself into.

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