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.

Comments (89)

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.