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Books You Love

Welcome to story hour: 100 favorite books for young readers.

Petra Mayer

It's been such a strange, lost summer. Camps and schools and activities have shut down during the pandemic, leaving kids and caregivers stuck at home and climbing the walls — and sometimes the garden fences.

With that in mind, we decided that this year's summer reader poll should be all about keeping kids occupied. We asked you to tell us about your favorite kids' books, from board books for babies to great read-alouds to early chapter books and even a few books for older readers. And thousands of you answered.

As with all our summer polls, this one isn't a straight-up popularity contest. (Otherwise it would have been nothing but 100 Mo Willems books — and we love Mo Willems , but that wouldn't have been the most useful list.) Rather, it's a curated list built from your recommendations and picks from our expert panel of judges — a fantastic group of authors, librarians, publishers and all-around book nerds . And instead of a ranked list, it's grouped into categories that we hope will help you find just the right books for the kids in your life.

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Now, we understand that half the fun of a list is arguing about what didn't make it on — and our judges had to make some hard choices. But there was one easy decision: A few years ago, we did a summer list based on All Things Considered 's Backseat Book Club of great reads for kids from 9 to 14 . This year's list is focused on younger readers, but we did include a few books for older kids. So if something appeared on the Backseat 100, we didn't include it here. That means no Charlotte's Web , no Matilda and no Little House books (though we've got some wonderful suggestions for Little House fans, like Linda Sue Park's Prairie Lotus ).

We want this list to be a tool for discovery, which means we had to walk a delicate path when it comes to books that are undeniable classics — we knew all hell would rain down on us if we left out Where the Wild Things Are or The Very Hungry Caterpillar . But we decided you probably didn't need our help to discover Dr. Seuss, Richard Scarry or The Little Engine that Could , so those didn't make it onto the list.

And as always, we had to decide which work to pick from creators who were nominated multiple times. Readers may remember the Nora Roberts Rule , which came about during 2015's romance poll: No one gets on the list twice UNLESS they're as titanic a figure in their field as Roberts is in romance; we included her in that list under both her own name and her pen name, J.D. Robb.

NPR Books Summer Poll 2020: Kids' Books

Summer reader poll 2020: meet our esteemed panelists.

This year brought an interesting twist. Since many books on the list have both authors and illustrators, we eventually decided that authors could appear only once, but we didn't mind seeing illustrators again. (Hello, Christian Robinson and Vashti Harrison!) And generally, when someone appeared more than once in the nominations, we went with whichever title was more popular with voters (so Kevin Henkes' Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse beat out Kitten's First Full Moon ).

You'll also see there's a section of books for older readers. We wanted to recognize that a lot of kids read ahead of their age groups — and also, there have been so many great books that came out since we put together the Backseat 100 list in 2013 that it seemed a shame not to include a few of them here.

We hope you and the kids in your life will have as much fun poring through this list as we had putting it together! We had a blast recalling old favorites and discovering new classics (and a shoutout to our gracious judges, who let me sneak in one of my all-time childhood faves, Paul Goble's gorgeous The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses ).

To make things easier, we've split up the list into categories: Picture Perfect , Baby's Bookshelf , Conversation Starters , Family Life , Animal (and Monster) Friends , Folktales and Fairy Tales , Fun to Read Out Loud , Nonfiction , Early Chapter Books , and Older Readers . Happy reading!

Picture Perfect

The snowy day.

by Ezra Jack Keats

One morning, a little boy in Brooklyn wakes up to a changed world — sparkling with fresh snowfall. And though it's never directly mentioned in the text, young Peter is Black, one of the first non-caricatured Black people to star in a major children's book. Author and illustrator Ezra Jack Keats was white, but his sensitive depiction of a child's first experience with snow won the Caldecott Medal and was embraced by parents and children of all colors. (For ages 0 to 2)

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Where the Wild Things Are

by Maurice Sendak

Readers nominated so many Maurice Sendak books, it was hard to pick just one. Well, no, actually — despite a moment of competition from In the Night Kitchen , we knew we had to go with this classic tale of Max, his wolf suit, the wild rumpus, and of course ... the dinner that was still warm when he got home. (For ages 4 to 8)

The Old Truck

by Jarrett Pumphrey and Jerome Pumphrey

Jerome Pumphrey was driving through central Texas to visit his brother Jarrett, and along the way he kept seeing old trucks sitting out in the fields. He began to wonder what stories those old trucks could tell — the result, created by both brothers together, is this story, illustrated by hundreds of hand-carved stamps, of a farm family and their beloved pickup. (For ages 3 to 5)

Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut

by Derrick Barnes and Gordon C. James

We couldn't put Hair Love on the list (you'll find it a little further down) and leave out this tribute to the magic of the barbershop. "You came in as a lump of clay, a blank canvas, a slab of marble," author Derrick Barnes writes. "But when my man is done with you, they'll want to post you up in a museum!" Gordon C. James' lively paintings of smiling boys showing off their fresh cuts will put a smile on your face, too. (For ages 3 to 8)

Julián Is A Mermaid

by Jessica Love

Julián is riding the subway with his abuela when he sees them: three mermaids, with fabulous hair and fishtail dresses. And Julián loves mermaids. So much that he makes his own costume at home, with a yellow curtain for a tail and a potted fern for a crown. This is a gorgeous tale of creativity and acceptance, rounded out with misty, jeweled gouache illustrations. (For ages 4 to 8)

Miss Rumphius

by Barbara Cooney

Miss Rumphius dreams of living by the sea, traveling the world, and making it a more beautiful place — and she does it on her own terms, living alone with her cat and sowing lupine seeds along the coast of Maine despite the local kids who call her "That Crazy Old Lady." (She was based on a real person — Maine resident Hilda Hamlin, who was known as the "Lupine Lady" for her habit of scattering seeds.) (For ages 5 to 8)

The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses

by Paul Goble

Everywhere you look in The Girl Who Loved Wild Horses, there's a tiny, precise and lovely detail — a plant, a bird, a lizard, a pebble, a shell and of course the magnificent horses. This story of a Plains Indian girl who runs away with a band of wild horses, and eventually becomes one of them, won the Caldecott in 1978, and for good reason. (For ages 5 to 8)

Hello Lighthouse

by Sophie Blackall

Waves roll by, seasons come and go, keepers tend to their duties, and through it all, the lighthouse stands tall, sending its beam out into the darkness, bidding hello to all the ships at sea. Caldecott winner Sophie Blackall does a gorgeous job showing the timeless nature of lighthouse life — and the change that's coming. (For ages 4 to 8)

by Faith Ringgold

Artist Faith Ringgold's tale of young Cassie Louise Lightfoot who flies far above the "tar beach" of her apartment building roof is — along with The Undefeated — one of the most beautiful books on this list. Lifted up by the stars, Cassie flies over the city, claiming its beauty for her own and imagining a better life for her family. As a bonus, you can see Ringgold reading the book here . (For ages 5 to 8)

The Undefeated

by Kwame Alexander and Kadir Nelson

One of the most — if not the most — beautiful books on this list. Kadir Nelson's glowing, photorealistic paintings pair with Kwame Alexander's powerful words (with nods to Langston Hughes, Gwendolyn Brooks and more) for a tribute to decades of Black brilliance, pain and perseverance. "This is one of those texts that really spoke to me; it was beautifully written and I felt it was a really great pairing of words and pictures of an author and an artist," Nelson told NPR . (For ages 6 to 9)

by Walter Dean Myers and Christopher Myers

This poem by Walter Dean Myers — a revered elder of children's literature — celebrates Harlem, where he grew up, full of "colors loud enough to be heard" and songs first heard in the villages of "Ghana/Mali/Senegal." His son Christopher's bold illustrations, part paint and part collage, don't talk down to kids, instead pulling them into a vibrant city. (For ages 9 and up)

Baby's Bookshelf

Antiracist baby.

by Ibram X. Kendi and Ashley Lukashevsky

Ibram X. Kendi wanted to have a tool to teach his young daughter about racism, so he adapted the ideas in his book How to Be an Antiracist into this brightly colored guide. In nine steps, Kendi (and illustrator Ashley Lukashevsky) offers parents a way to open their eyes, and their children's eyes, to the realities of racism. (For ages 0 to 3)

Goodnight Moon

by Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd

Margaret Wise Brown's hushed, incantatory bedtime poetry — set against Clement Hurd's bright blocks of green, blue, red and yellow — has sent generations of children off to sleep. Don't you wish you had a great green room and a red balloon? And two little kittens and a pair of mittens? (For ages 0 to 4)

Freight Train

by Donald Crews

Red caboose at the back, and forward through the rainbow to the black tender and engine, Donald Crews' simple, powerful freight train chugs its way through towns and tunnels, days and nights. Kids will love exploring the blocky, brightly colored train cars and seeing what's inside. Here comes the train! (For ages 0 to 4)

Good Dog, Carl (series)

by Alexandra Day

Little Madeleine has a pretty great babysitter: A big friendly Rottweiler named Carl. Together, they go to the store and to the zoo, to costume parties and daycare classes — in richly illustrated, mostly wordless books that let readers form their own ideas about what's happening on each page. (For ages 1 to 4)

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

by Eric Carle

In the light of the moon, a little egg lay on a leaf — and it hatched into a hungry caterpillar who munched his way right off the page and into the hearts of kids everywhere. Eric Carle's charming story and luminous, stained-glass illustrations make The Very Hungry Caterpillar a classic for the ages (and a good advertisement for the benefits of snacking). (For ages 2 to 5)

But Not the Hippopotamus

by Sandra Boynton

All the other animals are having fun! They cavort in the bog, they try on hats, they sip juice at a cute cafe ... but not the hippopotamus, who's always in the background looking on sadly. But luckily, by the end of Sandra Boynton's cheerful tale, the hippo gathers her courage and joins in the party. (For ages 2 to 5)

Brown Baby Lullaby

by Tameka Fryer Brown and A.G. Ford

Tameka Fryer Brown's lilting, musical rhymes and A.G. Ford's glowing art follow one very active baby through a very busy day of zooming around the house, getting kisses, napping, playing in the grass, getting a bath and finally going to bed as the sun sets. (For ages 2 to 6)

Go, Dog. Go!

by P. D. Eastman

Big dogs, little dogs, red dogs, blue dogs, dogs on cars and scooters — kids will love learning colors and emotions and ideas with P.D. Eastman's zippy dogs. And hopefully they'll learn some manners, too; the answer to "Do you like my hat?" should generally be "Yes!" (For ages 3 to 7)

The Napping House

by Audrey Wood and Don Wood

It's a soft gray rainy day and everyone's asleep in the Napping House — but unfortunately, they're all trying to pile into the same bed, with predictably unfortunate (but funny) results. This is a book that'll put any kid to sleep — and we mean that in the best possible way. (For ages 4 to 7)

Conversation Starters

Last stop on market street.

by Matt De La Pena and Christian Robinson

CJ is full of questions: Why do we have to take the bus when my friend has a car? Why is it raining? Why can't that man see? Luckily, his nana is always ready with an answer that helps CJ find beauty wherever he looks."You can feel like you have been slighted if you are growing up without, if you have less money, or you can see the beauty in that," author Matt de la Peña told NPR in 2016 . "And I feel like the most important thing that's ever happened to me is growing up without money." (For ages 3 to 5)

by Kyo MacLear and Rashin Kheiriyeh

For the family in Story Boat , "here" is home — but "here" keeps changing as they travel onward to an unknown destination. Illustrator Rashin Kheiriyeh, whose family fled Iran after war broke out in 1980, told NPR that when she first read the manuscript, "I thought, oh, that's me." Her bold, carefully color-coded illustrations balance a serious situation with the whimsy of children spinning tales out of the few belongings they've brought with them. (For ages 3 to 7)

by Yuyi Morales

Yuyi Morales was born in Mexico; she came to America with her baby boy in 1999, and she builds that experience into a poetic, visually stunning tribute to the immigrant experience — to walking the streets of a new place, getting lost and learning a new life and language, and to the dreams, hopes and talents immigrants bring to this country. (For ages 4 to 8)

Jabari Jumps

by Gaia Cornwall

Not a lot of brand-new books make it into these lists, but our judges felt that Gaia Cornwall's sweet, engaging story of a little boy conquering his fear of the high jump would stand the test of time. If you've ever stood at the edge of that board looking down at the deep end, Jabari Jumps is the book for you. (For ages 4 to 8)

The Rabbit Listened

by Cori Doerrfeld

Ever have a friend who's sad, and you just don't know what to say or how to help them? The Rabbit Listened is the book for you — with simple text and illustrations so cute you'll want to hug yourself, it tells the story of Taylor, who's sad that his tower of blocks fell down, and all the animals who really aren't helping until the rabbit comes along. (For ages 3 to 5)

by Lupita Nyong'o and Vashti Harrison

"Dear Lord," Sulwe prays, "Why do I look like midnight when my mother looks like dawn?" She tries makeup, eating only light-colored foods, and in one painful scene, using an eraser to rub away her darkness. But a magical flight through the night sky helps her learn to love that darkness. Actor and author Lupita Nyong'o told NPR she based the book on her own experiences of colorism as a child, "And so that's why I wrote this — to hopefully bring it to the fore and people can address it." (For ages 4 to 8)

I Am Enough

by Grace Byers and Keturah A. Bobo

"I'm not meant to be like you; you're not meant to be like me," writes actor and author Grace Byers. "Sometimes we will get along, and sometimes we will disagree." But as kids will learn from I Am Enough , like the sun, we're all here to shine. (For ages 4 to 8)

Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse

by Kevin Henkes

Lilly loves everything, especially her purple plastic purse full of treasures. She even loves her teacher Mr. Slinger — but when the wondrous purse and its contents keep interrupting his lessons, he confiscates it, leading Lilly to attempt revenge. Luckily, her favorite teacher understands her emotions. (For ages 4 to 8)

The Proudest Blue

by Ibtihaj Muhammad, S. K. Ali and Hatem Aly

Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad was bullied as a child for wearing a hijab. She decided to turn that experience into this lovely tale of two sisters, Faizah and Asiya, who confront a playground bully threatening to yank Asiya's blue hijab off her head. Muhammad told NPR she hopes little girls wearing hijabs will "see themselves in this work." (For ages 4 to 8)

Each Kindness

by Jacqueline Woodson

So many great Jacqueline Woodson books, so little space! We settle on Each Kindness, gorgeously illustrated by E.B. Lewis. Maya is the new girl at school, with ragged clothes and the wrong shoes for winter. No one wants to play with her — not even Chloe, who sits next to her, and eventually has to deal with the results of her unkindness. (For ages 5 to 8)

Wherever I Go

by Mary Wagley Copp and Munir D. Mohammed

Abia is the queen of the Shimelba refugee camp — because she's been there the longest of any of her friends, and she rules her domain with love and an acacia-twig crown. Wherever I Go is a heartfelt portrait of life in a refugee family, and a meditation on the idea of home. Is the camp home? What about the "forever home" Abia's Papa dreams of? And will she still be a queen when she gets there? (For ages 6 to 9)

by Kelly Yang

10-year-old Mia Tang mans the desk at her family's motel — and helps keep its biggest secret: Her parents hide immigrants, letting them stay for free in empty rooms. And she wants to be a writer, but English isn't her first language. Writer Kelly Yang based this powerful story on her own experience, and the stories of the immigrants who stayed at her family's motels. (For ages 8 to 12)

Family Life

Alexander and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.

by Judith Viorst and Ray Cruz

When Alexander wakes up with gum in his hair, he knows nothing good is coming. And he's right — there's no toy in his cereal, his teacher doesn't like his drawing and there's kissing on TV. A great read for anyone who's ever been down in the dumps. Even grown-ups can take solace in Alexander's troubles — poll judge Juanita Giles says it was the book she chose to read at her mother's bedside on her last day. (For ages 2 to 4)

by Kevin Noble Maillard and Juana Martinez-Neal

Author Kevin Noble Maillard — who's part of the Seminole Nation — told NPR he had a hard time finding books about Native Americans that weren't about historical figures like Sacagawea or Pocahontas. "Nothing about people alive that were wearing sneakers, that were eating candy, or making cakes with their grandma." So he created this ode to a favorite food that brings Native families together. (For ages 3 to 6)

A Chair for My Mother

by Vera B. Williams

Rosa's mom works in a diner — and so does Rosa, sometimes, peeling onions, washing salt shakers and saving her pennies to buy her mom a comfortable chair because all their furniture was lost in a fire that turned their apartment to "charcoal and ashes." And bit by bit, with hard work and cooperation, Rosa and her mom find the perfect chair. (For ages 4 to 8)

My Papi Has a Motorcycle

by Isabel Quintero and Zeke Peña

Daisy Ramona waits every day for her Papi to come home from work — because then she gets to ride around their city on the back of his motorcycle. Writer Isabel Quintero told NPR the story is a loving tribute to her own father, and her childhood in Corona, Calif. "It is very specific, but it's also a story that especially Latinx kids in other parts of the country can enjoy or relate to." Zeke Peña's warm, bustling illustrations bring those childhood memories to life. (For ages 4 to 8)

Drawn Together

by Minh Lê and Dan Santat

As a child, Minh Lê loved his grandparents but didn't really know what to say to them. He works through that awkwardness in Drawn Together , about a boy and his grandfather who learn to connect through their mutual love of art. "And then their relationship kind of takes off from there," Lê told NPR . (For ages 4 to 8)

Meet Yasmin! (series)

by Saadia Faruqi and Hatem Aly

Yasmin is a spunky second-grader who tries out all kinds of occupations — superhero, writer, chef, zookeeper — whether or not she actually knows what's involved. But she always has fun, thanks to her quick thinking and support from her big Pakistani American family. (For ages 5 to 8)

by Matthew A. Cherry and Vashti Harrison

Based on the Oscar-winning short film, this lovely story of a dad learning to do his daughter's hair, which "kinks, coils and curves every which way," will leave you sniffling fondly. Creator Matthew Cherry told NPR he was inspired by friends of his who are young fathers, and "they're all willing to do whatever it takes for their young girls." (For ages 4 to 8)

A Different Pond

by Bao Phi and Thi Bui

Hours before the sun came up, Bao Phi's father would wake him — quietly — for a fishing trip. Not for fun, but to feed their family. And as they fished, Bao's father would tell him stories about another pond back in their homeland of Vietnam. Thi Bui's gorgeous, quiet illustrations are perfect for this lovely story of the bond between father and son. (For ages 6 to 8)

The Boxcar Children (series)

by Gertrude Chandler Warner

No one knows what to do with orphaned siblings Henry, Violet, Jessie and Bennie — and they don't want to live with the grandfather they've never met. So they set up house in an abandoned boxcar and try to make it on their own. But that's just the first of more than 150 Boxcar Children adventures — eventually reconciled with their grandfather (who turns out to be both rich and quite nice), they end up as amateur sleuths in the tradition of the Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew. (For ages 7 to 10)

Animal (and Monster) Friends

by Janell Cannon

Fact: Bats are adorable, and few bats are more adorable than Stellaluna, the little one who gets lost when an owl dives at her mother and ends up trying to fit in with a nest full of baby birds. Janell Cannon's glowing illustrations, paired with a couple of pages of fun facts about bats, make this a great book for budding naturalists (or anyone who understands that yes, bats are adorable). (For ages 0 to 3)

Corduroy , by Don Freeman Viking Books for Young Readers hide caption

by Don Freeman

Corduroy the bear sits on a shelf in a department store, longing for a friend — but little Lisa's mother refuses to buy him. He's missing a button after all. Corduroy's after-hours search for his missing button leads to escalating mischief and a story that's great for anyone who's ever wondered whether toys come to life when you aren't looking. (For ages 2 to 5)

The Story of Ferdinand

by Munro Leaf and Robert Lawson

Peaceful Ferdinand just wants to be left alone, to sit under his cork tree sniffing the flowers — and when he ends up in the bullring, his refusal to fight (the flowers in the lady spectators' hair are so much more interesting) confounds the bullfighters. A classic tale of pacifism and being true to yourself. (For ages 3 to 5)

A Sick Day for Amos McGee

by Philip C. Stead and Erin E. Stead

Amos McGee is a zookeeper, and a kind and punctual fellow. He's always on the same bus every morning, and he always has time to visit his animal friends. But one day, he wakes up with a cold and decides to stay in bed, so his worried animal friends jump on the bus to visit him. A lovely, gentle story about what friends can do for each other. (For ages 3 to 6)

Mother Bruce (series)

by Ryan T. Higgins

Oh, no! Bruce, the grumpy, solitary bear, loves to eat eggs — except these eggs happen to be full of goslings, and Bruce finds himself with a feathery family he doesn't know what to do with. And it's not just geese — mice, possums, foxes and more all pile into Bruce's den. (For age 3 to 5)

The Monster at the End of this Book

by Jon Stone

Don't turn the page! Don't you know there's a monster at the end of this book? "Lovable, furry old Grover" does his best to keep kids from turning the pages — but all his efforts can't prevent readers from discovering who the monster actually is. Oh no! So embarrassing! (For ages 3 to 7)

Blueberries for Sal

by Robert McCloskey

You guys voted in a lot of Robert McCloskey books! But the judges felt Blueberries for Sal was the most compelling read. Sal and her mother head to Blueberry Hill to pick berries for canning; meanwhile a mother bear and her cub are fattening themselves for winter on the other side of the hill, and mix-ups ensue. First published in 1948, this tale of two mothers, two children and a bucket of blueberries is still charming young readers. (For ages 3 to 7)

Bowwow Powwow

by Brenda J. Child and Jonathan Thunder

Windy Girl loves the stories her uncle tells about long-ago powwows. And she loves the real-life powwows she goes to with her uncle and her dog, Itchy Boy. One night, lulled to sleep by drums, she dreams of an all-dog powwow, with all kinds of breeds dancing drumming, even selling Indian fast food to the attendees. It's a joyous, funny book that gives young readers a look at an important tradition. (For ages 3 to 7)

Catwings (series)

by Ursula K. Le Guin and S. D. Schindler

Putting together these lists is as much of a discovery experience as reading them is, and I'm especially glad to have discovered Catwings , Ursula K. LeGuin's tale of four tabby kittens inexplicably born with wings. Thelma, Jane, Harriet and Roger use their wings to fly far away from the dangerous alley where they were born, but they find country life has its own challenges. Steven D. Schindler's soft-edged illustrations will make you believe winged kittens might actually exist. (For ages 4 and up)

Elephant & Piggie (series)

by Mo Willems

Readers voted in just about everything Mo Willems has ever written, but sadly, with only 100 slots on the list, we could only keep one (although we cheated a little by picking a series). Elephant and Piggie are funny, adorable cartoon animals, but they have to work through the same serious issues — sharing, patience, new friendships, sadness — that all kids face as they grow up. (For ages 4 to 8)

Henry and Mudge (series)

by Cynthia Rylant and Suçie Stevenson

Lonely little Henry has no brothers and sisters. He doesn't like the street he lives on, and then his parents get him Mudge, a dog who's considerably bigger than he is. It's pretty great to have a giant dog because then when you walk to school, you can think about ice cream and rain instead of tornadoes or ghosts. (For ages 5 to 7)

Mercy Watson (series)

by Kate DiCamillo and Chris Van Dusen

Kate DiCamillo is another author who showed up all over the original list of nominations, but our judges thought this series about a terrific, radiant little pig — who likes buttered toast, car rides and solving the occasional mystery — was the pick of the litter. Chris Van Dusen's lively, sweet-natured illustrations helped seal the deal. (For ages 5 to 8)

Dog Man (series)

by Dav Pilkey

You can't have a kids' books list without Dav Pilkey. So here comes Dog Man: Half dog, half cop, this gruff crime fighter is here to sniff out wrongdoing, especially when it involves his nemesis Petey the Cat, who cooks up crimes in his secret cat lab. (For ages 7 and up)

Folktales And Fairy Tales

Strega nona.

by Tomie dePaola

Strega Nona should have known better than to leave Big Anthony alone with her magic pasta pot! He's only supposed to look after her house and garden — but one day when she's away, he decides to make the pot produce dinner for the whole town. You can pretty much guess what happens after that. A terrible pasta flood might be scary, but Tomie dePaola's velvety illustrations reassure little readers that everything will be alright in the end, if a little sticky. (For ages 2 to 5)

by Jan Brett

Jan Brett's luminous art brings this Ukrainian folktale about a careless boy and a snow-white mitten to life. Nicki demands mittens knitted from wool as white as the snow — which his grandmother knows is impractical, but she humors him. When he drops one in the snow, a host of animals come to investigate, even a bear. (For ages 3 to 5)

The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales

by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith

Little kids are goofy and frequently gross, we all know that — so Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith's gleefully surreal inversion of familiar fairy tales is perfect for little readers. (And you don't actually have to be a little kid to laugh your ... hiney ... off at just the table of contents, even before you get to stories like "Little Red Running Shorts" and "Cinderumpelstiltsin.") (For ages 3 to 7)

A Big Mooncake for Little Star

by Grace Lin

Any kid who has looked up at the moon and wondered why it changes shape will love the story of Little Star — who bakes a mooncake with her mother, and then can't resist a nibble ... and then another nibble ... and then another nibble. You'll want a mooncake of your own (and a set of sparkly, starry pajamas, too). (For ages 4 to 8)

Beautiful Blackbird

by Ashley Bryan

Long ago, the birds of Africa were all the colors of the rainbow — but none of them had any black, because Blackbird had it all. So they asked Blackbird to give them some of his beautiful color. Ashley Bryan's paper-cut illustrations, reminiscent of Henri Matisse, bring this story of envy, beauty and acceptance to gorgeous life. (For ages 3 to 8)

by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen

Annabel finds what looks like an ordinary box full of ordinary yarn — but it's enough to clothe, brighten and bind together a whole town in colorful knitted cozies. And when a sinister archduke tries to grab the box for himself, he learns that crime doesn't pay. A lovely story about a girl who has the power to change the world around her. (For ages 4 to 8)

The Princess in Black (series)

by Shannon Hale, Dean Hale and Leuyen Pham

A princess? A superhero? Why not both?! Princess Magnolia — inspired by author Shannon Hale's daughter, who insisted that princesses couldn't wear black — can have scones with duchesses AND fight monsters, or a mysterious stinky cloud, or a sea monster (some princesses just can't catch a break, even on the beach). (For ages 5 to 8)

The People Could Fly

by Virginia Hamilton, Leo Dillon and Diane Dillon

Virginia Hamilton — herself descended from enslaved people who escaped via the Underground Railroad — retells Black folktales like "He Lion, Bruh Bear and Bruh Rabbit" and "How Nehemiah Got Free" in a simple, powerful style. Put that together with Leo and Diane Dillon's luscious illustrations and you have an almost perfect story-hour read. (For ages 8 and up)

A Wish in the Dark

by Christina Soontornvat

A fantastical, Thai-inspired twist on Les Misérables. In the city of Chattana, all the light was created by one man, the Governor. To Pong, born in prison, those lights mean freedom, but when he escapes he discovers that freedom is only for the wealthy. Nok, the prison warden's daughter, is determined to recapture Pong — but her quest leads her to some uncomfortable revelations. (For ages 8 to 12)

My Father's Dragon

by Ruth Stiles Gannett and Ruth Chrisman Gannett

Childhood surrealism at its best. If you like The Phantom Tollbooth , try this story about a little boy named Elmer Elevator (the narrator's father as a child) who befriends a talking alley cat that sets him on his way to a grand adventure on a wild island — past muddy rivers, fierce tigers and fashionable lions — to rescue a yellow-and-blue-striped dragon. (For ages 8 to 12)

Fun To Read Out Loud

Chicka chicka boom boom (chicka chicka series).

by Bill Martin Jr., John Archambault and Lois Ehlert

"A told B and B told C, I'll meet you at the top of the coconut tree." A read-aloud classic, this rollicking alphabet rhyme has all the letters racing one another up a coconut tree. "Chicka Chicka boom boom! Will there be enough room?" We defy you to read this to a kid and not end up dancing. (For ages 1 to 4)

A Is for Activist

by Innosanto Nagara

Innosanto Nagara's ABCs of activism simplifies ideas about environmentalism, feminism, civil rights and democracy for the littlest readers. Bold, bright illustrations and lively rhymes make this a solid read-aloud choice, too. (Oh, and there's a cat hiding on every page, too — can you find it?) (For ages 3 to 7)

The Gruffalo

by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler

There's no such thing as a Gruffalo! Or is there? A savvy mouse avoids the clutches of a fox by invoking the terrible Gruffalo — setting off an increasingly ridiculous (and delightful) chain of events, all told in rhyming couplets that are all kinds of fun to read aloud. (For ages 3 to 5)

Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel

by Virginia Lee Burton

Who doesn't love a big chunk of heavy machinery? First published in 1939, Virginia Lee Burton's tale of Mike Mulligan and his steam shovel, Mary Anne, has inspired decades of sandbox excavation projects — and, memorably, it also prompted Ramona Quimby to wonder out loud whether Mike ever had time to go to the bathroom. (For ages 4 to 7)

Bark, George

by Jules Feiffer

George is a little dog who just can't bark. He can meow and oink and quack — but barking? Nope. When his frustrated mother takes George to the vet, the answer to his problem turns out to be quite the surprise. Jules Feiffer's illustrations are minimalist but incredibly expressive — plus, it's just fun to yell MOO and OINK and QUACK QUACK! (For ages 4 to 8)

Kid Sheriff and the Terrible Toads

by Bob Shea and Lane Smith

Drywater Gulch has a toad problem — specifically the unmannerly Toad brothers, who will steal your gold and insult your chili. But then hope arrives — sloooowly on tortoise-back — in the form of 7-year-old Kid Sheriff Ryan, who may not know about toads specifically, but he does know about dinosaurs. And that might just be enough. (For ages 4 to 8)

Ada Twist, Scientist (series)

by Andrea Beaty and David Roberts

Young Ada is insatiably curious: "She started with Why ? And then What? How? and When? By bedtime she came back to Why? once again." From why roses have thorns to why noses have hair — and what's that stink in the house? — Ada Twist considers all the things. From the team that created Iggy Peck, Architect and Rosie Revere, Engineer . (For ages 5 to 7)

The Book With No Pictures

by B. J. Novak

Yup, it really doesn't have any pictures. But, as author B.J. Novak points out, "Here is how books work: Everything the words say, the person reading the book has to say." And we bet the kids in your life will love making you say things like "BLORK" or "My only friend in the whole wide world is a hippo named BOO BOO BUTT" or "BADOONGYFACE!!!!" (For ages 5 to 8)

Where the Sidewalk Ends

by Shel Silverstein

How many of you, reading this page, still have chunks of Where the Sidewalk Ends memorized? Do you think of Sarah Cynthia Sylvia Stout when you have to take the garbage out? Do you pause in the produce aisle and think about one real peach? And if you don't, why not? (For ages 6 to 8)

Hidden Figures

by Margot Lee Shetterly and Laura Freeman

Margot Lee Shetterly adapts her groundbreaking book about Black female mathematicians at NASA for young readers, with sharp-edged, jewel-toned illustrations by Laura Freeman. A great pick for any budding mathematician or astronaut — and for any parent needing to teach their kids at home. (For ages 4 to 8)

The Oldest Student

by Rita Lorraine Hubbard and Oge Mora

Mary Walker's life stretched all the way from the Civil War to the civil rights movement. She was born into slavery in 1848, freed at 15, worked all kinds of jobs to support her family and then outlived them all — and in 1963, she enrolled in a literacy class where she learned to read and write. Oge Mora's painterly illustrations are a beautiful complement to this story about how you're never too old to learn. (For ages 4 to 8)

by Patricia Hruby Powell and Christian Robinson

This gorgeous book will introduce kids to the glory of Josephine Baker — not just her fabulous dance routines, but her life of activism and service, including speaking alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963. Patricia Hruby Powell's jazz-inflected words and Christian Robinson's bright, exciting pictures make this book a treat for readers and listeners. (For ages 7 to 10)

Early Chapter Books

Frog and toad (series).

by Arnold Lobel

Amphibians, sport coats and lasting friendship. Over the course of four books, Frog and Toad go swimming and sledding, search for lost buttons, bake cookies, grow gardens and generally have fun together all year round. If only adult friendships were as simple and solid as Frog and Toad's! (For ages 4 to 8)

Little Bear (series)

by Else Holmelund Minarik and Maurice Sendak

Else Holmelund Minarik wrote this tale of a Bear and his Mother for her own daughter, to read in the mornings before school — longhand, as she wrote all her manuscripts, because she never learned to type. Together with Maurice Sendak's delightfully shaggy illustrations, Minarik's gentle words are perfect for the littlest readers. (For ages 4 to 8)

Anna Hibiscus (series)

by Atinuke and Lauren Tobia

Anna Hibiscus lives in "Africa, amazing Africa," in a compound with her large and loving family. Nigerian storyteller Atinuke spins a wonderful saga of modern West African family life — follow along with Anna as she learns about the world outside her walls, faces stage fright and even snow for the first time. (For ages 4 to 10)

Juana & Lucas (series)

by Juana Medina

Juana lives in Bogotá, Colombia, and she loves drawing, her dog Lucas and Brussels sprouts. (Did you know they're called repollitas in Spanish?) This is a lively, loving tour of Juana's world, liberally sprinkled with Spanish words to learn as you go — meanwhile, Juana has to practice her English, and she's really not happy about that. (For ages 5 to 8)

Dory Fantasmagory (series)

by Abby Hanlon

Dory is the youngest in her family, with a yen for attention and an overactive imagination — and did we mention her nemesis, Mrs. Gobble Cracker? Young readers will love following along with Dory as she battles everything from monsters around the house to pirates to more mundane concerns like making and keeping friends. (For ages 6 to 8)

Junie B. Jones (series)

by Barbara Park

Junie B. Jones is almost 6 years old! And she's really excited about everything, especially spaghetti and meatballs. The B stands for Beatrice, by the way. This series made the American Library Association's list of 100 top banned or challenged books from 2000 to 2009; apparently, some grown-ups thought sassy, mouthy Junie wasn't a good role model. We disagree. (For ages 6 to 9)

Ivy + Bean (series)

by Annie Barrows and Sophie Blackall

Ivy is quiet; Bean is loud and goofy. Ivy wants to be a witch, Bean wants to play games. Naturally, they're going to end up being best friends and getting into all kinds of scrapes together since their approach to pretty much everything — from discovering dinosaurs to starting their own summer camp — is "Why not?" (For ages 6 to 10)

Clementine (series)

by Sara Pennypacker and Marla Frazee

Spunky, redheaded third-grader Clementine starts this series by having a seriously bad week (how many times is she going to get sent to the principal?), but we promise things will get better. Fans of Ramona Quimby will get a kick out of Clementine, her brother Spinach (that's not really his name) and her sort-of-snooty best friend Margaret. (For ages 6 to 10)

Older Readers

Ways to make sunshine.

by Renée Watson and Nina Mata

Ryan Hart wants to see the good in everybody — even when she gets teased for having a boy's name. She has a lot to deal with — her dad's been laid off and the family has to move to a smaller house. But when Ryan runs into problems, she's always looking for ways to make sunshine. (For ages 7 to 10)

by David Walliams

A delightfully gruesome tale in the Roald Dahl vein. Sheila lives with her father and unpleasant stepmother; she's bullied by a classmate and sneered at by her teacher. Her only friend is a rat she names Armitage, after the brand of toilet in her apartment — but could scary Burt, who sells burgers from a food truck outside her school, be making his burgers out of ground-up rat? (For ages 8 and up)

The Trumpet of the Swan

by E. B. White and Fred Marcellino

This book is responsible for my attempt, at age 7, to have a conversation with the swans at the National Zoo by standing outside their enclosure yelling "Ko-hooo!" E.B. White wrote a full shelf of children's classics, but this story about a mute trumpeter swan — who woos his lady love with an actual trumpet — should get more attention than it does. (For ages 8 to 12)

From the Desk of Zoe Washington

by Janae Marks

On her 12th birthday, Zoe Washington gets a letter from the father she's never met, who's in prison for a crime he says he didn't commit. Is he innocent? Zoe decides to find out — but it's hard to keep her investigation secret from the rest of the family AND stay on top of things at her bakery internship so she can achieve her dream of competing on a TV baking show. (For ages 8 to 12)

The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale Of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, And A Very Interesting Boy

by Jeanne Birdsall

Fans of Ballet Shoes and the Green Knowe books will love this tale of four sisters who go to spend their summer vacation in a cottage on the grounds of a grand mansion. Each sister has a unique, winning personality; young readers will finish the first book and want to spend more time with them. Luckily, there are four more Penderwicks books. (For ages 8 to 12)

by Jerry Craft

Fans of Raina Telgemeier will love Jerry Craft's sympathetic graphic novel about seventh-grader Jordan, who's trying to fit in at the fancy new private school where he's one of the few kids of color in his grade. And all he really wants to do is draw comics — so how can he stay true to himself and his neighborhood, and still figure out his new school? (For ages 8 to 12)

The Wild Robot

by Peter Brown

Roz the robot wakes up on a remote island — how did she get there? Who knows! All she knows is that she has to survive. And surviving involves making friends with otters and baby geese, climbing cliffs and avoiding storms — until Roz finally remembers who she is and why she's on the island. (For ages 8 to 12)

Klawde: Evil Alien Warlord Cat (series)

by Johnny Marciano, Emily Chenoweth and Robb Mommaerts

Lots of people think their cats are aliens — but Klawde really is one. Once the High Commander of the planet Lyttyrboks, he's lost his throne and been exiled to earth, so he has something in common with Raj Banerjee, who's been exiled to rural Oregon because of his mom's new job. The chapters switch back and forth between Raj and Klawde, whose narration of his new life has the hilariously overamped hysteria of the best B-movies. (For ages 8 to 12)

by Maud Hart Lovelace and Lois Lenski

We always say that these polls don't produce ranked lists — and they truly don't — but I'd be remiss in not pointing out that Maud Hart Lovelace's Betsy-Tacy books, about the enduring friendship between two young girls — got the most votes of any book on this list. The series grows up with its readers; at the beginning, Betsy and Tacy are small children; we see them through adventures fanciful and down-to-earth, and finally leave them as young married women. (For ages 8 to 12)

Ronia, the Robber's Daughter

by Astrid Lindgren

Sure, Pippi Longstocking is great — but have you met Ronia, the robber's daughter? Born in her father's castle in the middle of a thunderstorm, Ronia grows up compassionate and brave. She befriends Birk, the son of a rival robber, and when she brings him food during a harsh winter, her father disowns her; she ends up living an adventurous life in the woods with Birk. (Don't worry, everyone is reconciled in the end.) (For ages 8 to 12)

Encyclopedia Brown Boy Detective

by Donald J. Sobol

A classic! Leroy Brown (not the bad one) is a 10-year-old genius who solves mysteries for 25 cents a day (no case too small) — often for his police chief dad, and often involving his nemesis, the bully Bugs Meany — alongside his pal and partner Sally Kimball, who often solves the case by noticing things Encyclopedia doesn't. (For ages 8 to 12)

by Jen Wang

Quiet, studious Christine and lively, messy Moon are unlikely friends — but when Moon and her family move in next door, they form a close bond. Moon has a secret: She sees heavenly visions, hears voices that tell her she doesn't belong on earth. But those visions have a terrible earthly cause, and Christine has to find it in herself to be the friend Moon needs as she fights for her life. Jen Wang based this heartfelt story of friendship through adversity — which was a 2019 Book Concierge pick — on her own childhood. (For ages 8 to 12)

The Jumbies (series)

by Tracey Baptiste

Fair warning — Tracey Baptiste's Jumbies books, based on Caribbean folklore, are scary. REALLY scary. But Corinne La Mer isn't afraid of anything, especially jumbies, since everyone knows they're just made up, right? But then one night she sees yellow eyes shining in the forest ... and soon, she finds she has to use all her wiles to keep the jumbies away from her island. (For ages 9 to 12)

Wells & Wong mysteries (series)

by Robin Stevens

Best friends Daisy Wells and Hazel Wong do what any enterprising young women at boarding school would do: They form a detective agency — and quickly run up against their first real case when Hazel finds the body of their science teacher sprawled on the gymnasium floor. And that's just the beginning for this detective duo and their strangely murder-prone school. (For ages 10 and up)

Better Nate Than Ever (series)

by Tim Federle

The budding drama club kids in your life will love this trilogy about a small-town boy with big Broadway dreams. Nate Foster longs to get away from Jankburg, Pa., to star in a Broadway show (or even just see one). And then something amazing happens: There's an open casting call for a Broadway musical based on E.T. He just has to get there. (For ages 10 and up)

Prairie Lotus

by Linda Sue Park

We did not include the Little House books on this list — they're already part of the Ultimate Backseat Bookshelf . But readers wanting a frontier tale will find a friend in Hanna, a mixed-race girl growing up in the Dakota territory in 1880. Author Linda Sue Park made the parallels between Hanna and Laura Ingalls deliberate — as she writes in her author's note, she loved the Little House books as a child, but she knew Ma and Pa Ingalls wouldn't have let Laura "become friends with someone like me ... someone who wasn't white." (For ages 10 to 12)

The 100 Best Children's Books of All Time

We’re living in a golden age of young-adult literature, when books ostensibly written for teens are equally adored by readers of every generation. In the likes of Harry Potter and Katniss Everdeen, they’ve produced characters and conceits that have become the currency of our pop-culture discourse—and inspired some of our best writers to contribute to the genre. To honor the best books for young adults and children, TIME compiled this survey in consultation with respected peers such as U.S. Children’s Poet Laureate Kenn Nesbitt, children’s-book historian Leonard Marcus, the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, the Young Readers Center at the Library of Congress, the Every Child a Reader literacy foundation and 10 independent booksellers. With their help, we’ve created two all-time lists of classics: 100 Best Young-Adult Books and 100 Best Children’s Books. Vote for your favorite in the poll below.

See 17 authors’ favorite books for young readers .

Read about how author Meg Wolitzer was inspired by Sylvia Plath’s Bell Jar .

It’s your turn:

By the editors of TIME, with reporting by Daniel D’Addario, Giri Nathan and Noah Rayman.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misspelled Kenn Nesbitt’s name.

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Our expert librarians selected the year's best books for kids, teens, and adults. Explore titles in accessible formats , and learn more about our 2023 picks .

Best Books for Kids 2023

Filter results below, 114 books found, 9 kilometers.

Art by Gabriela Lyon. Translated by Lawrence Schimel | Detailed acrylic illustrations convey the daily arduous journey that a young Chilean child makes in order to receive the education they so richly deserve. Extensive backmatter includes information about trips to school for children of other cultures.

An American Story

Art by Dare Coulter | A teacher struggles to tell the story of American slavery in a society reluctant to grapple with its past atrocities. Mixed media illustrations and potent text convey the story of a people's strength, struggle, and resilience.

Ancestory: The Mystery and Majesty of Ancient Cave Art

Luminous illustrations guide readers through the history and mystery of ancient art from the caves of Papua New Guinea to the deserts of North America.

Aniana del Mar Jumps In

Recently diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, Aniana must navigate the dual obstacles of chronic pain and the familial trauma that keeps her mother stubbornly opposed to the young athlete’s dreams of life as a professional swimmer.

At the Drop of a Cat

Art by Violeta Lópiz. Translated by Karin Snelson and Emilie Robert Wong | In this heartwarming story translated from French, lush illustrations provide a verdant backdrop as a young child lovingly speaks about his grandfather. Luis, a Spanish refugee living in France, never learned to read or write, nonetheless his grandson admires his many talents.

Benita y las criaturas nocturnas

Arte de Cocoretto | Cuando Benita comienza a leer su nuevo libro, recibe la visita de criaturas monstruosas. Pero en lugar de asustarla, los espeluznantes visitantes aprenden el placer de perderse en un buen libro. Esta historia divertida presenta de manera juguetona monstruos del folclor peruano.

A young girl transcends opinions of her to hold space for herself and own the person she is both inside and out. Powerful, full-page illustrations and striking use of color push the limits of the picture book form.

Art by Shamar Knight-Justice | Shane brings his community together after a broken speaker threatens to end his Jamaican American community's weekly dancehall parties. Told in colorful collage illustrations, this is an exuberant story filled with joy that highlights one of NYC's most dynamic enclaves.

The Boy Who Tried to Shrink His Name

Art by Michelle Pereira | Zimdalamashkermishkada starts at a new school and is afraid others will have trouble pronouncing his name. He tries many ways to shrink his name until his friends help him see it from a new perspective.

Breaking to the Beat!

Art by Frank Morrison | Manolo, a shy Puerto Rican boy, discovers confidence that he never knew existed when he joins a break dancing team in the Boogie Down Bronx. Bold illustrations highlight the energetic dance moves of him and his crew in this historical fiction tale about the birth of hip-hop.

Bunny and Tree

Bunny is separated from its colony and turns to a shape-shifting tree for help. Through nine wordless, thoughtfully illustrated acts, they brave predators, sail across oceans and fly through the sky in search of Bunny's new home.

Art by Anait Semirdzhyan | It's rug washing day! Tato and her siblings help Bábo soak, soap, and wash the family rugs clean in a story filled with lively action words that shows doing chores can be fun! Backmatter, including a glossary of Artsakh Armenian words, gives more detail on this family tradition.

Calling the Moon: 16 Period Stories from BIPOC Authors

This empowering collection of short stories written by authors of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds shares the joy, gravity, and humor of menstruation from an array of perspectives.

Art by Kitt Thomas | A young Black child draws strength from their beloved superhero cape after the death of a loved one. Evocative and immersive illustrations and gentle text convey the experience of grief from a child's perspective.

Art by Cozbi A. Cabrera | Meet Chef Edna Lewis, who introduced the flavors and traditions of southern cooking to New York City and the broader world. Lushly textured illustrations and evocative text tell the story of Edna's delicious success.

Chinese Menu

From dumplings to fortune cookies, delectable short stories tell the origin legends of Chinese American menu staples.

Con la cabeza en alto

Arte de Vanessa Jaramillo | Únase a Paty y la comunidad de Sarayaku mientras luchan contra viento y marea para defender sus bosques sagrados de las compañías petroleras. Basada en una historia real de organización comunitaria y protesta.

Art by Arigon Starr | It's the 1911 World Series! For the first time, two Native American players, John Meyers and Charles Bender, are facing off on the field. Hand-drawn illustrations inspired by Cahuilla and Ojibwe art and archival photos recount their lives and the racism they experienced.

Cross My Heart and Never Lie

In this sweetly sensitive graphic diary, 12-year-old Tuva navigates the difficulties that come with being a tween: balancing kid stuff with growing up, exploring relationships and first crushes, all while figuring out who she is and what she wants.

Curlfriends: New in Town

Twelve-year-old military kid Charlie Harper is no stranger to being the new kid. Middle school means a fresh start, and she is convinced this is her chance to be cool. However, Charlie feels like fitting in might mean pretending to be someone she isn't.

Dear Mothman

Through letters written to the mysterious Mothman of local lore, Noah explores the grief of losing his best friend and what it means to be trans.

Something sinister lurks in the halls of Deephaven Academy. Amid new friendships and rivalries, young nonbinary inventor Nev quickly discovers that the school contains dark secrets that put every student in peril.

Do You Remember?

A boy and his mother reflect on the past to bring comfort through a major life change. Poignantly illustrated vignettes depict the memories of birthdays, picnics, and heartfelt moments that help calm their spirits on their first night in a new home.

Donde el corazón te lleva: La historia de Dindim y Joao

Arte de Susannah Crispe, traducido por Ana Pániker | Un pingüino llega a la orilla del mar y hace un amigo humano, Joao, que cuida de él. Incluso después de regresar con sus compañeros pingüinos, no puede olvidar a Joao y emprende un largo viaje para reunirse.

Doodles from the Boogie Down

In the Bronx circa 2000, it's time for eighth-grader Steph to apply to high school. Will she pick the private Catholic school chosen by her protective Dominican mother or LaGuardia, where she can pursue her own dreams of becoming an artist?

Eerie Tales from the School of Screams

Emily and Davis don't want to tell a spooky story... but their classmates do! Creepy tales of ghosts, aliens, and other fantastical creatures will scare and delight.

El amor más grande

Arte de Beck Feiner, traducido por Luis Amavisca & Ude AutumnLeaf | El amor de un padre hacia su hijo es más grande que una ciudad y más grande que una galaxia. El amor es aun más grande que el infinito.

Arte de Guridi | Cuando una oveja traviesa se niega a hacer su trabajo en ayudar a un niño a dormir comienza la comedía.

Traducido por Salvador Figueirido | ¿Cuánto sabes sobre los sapos? Sumérgete en este divertido libro lleno de datos re-salta-ntes y anécdotas que te harán brincar de la risa.

The Eyes and the Impossible

Art by Shawn Harris | In a wildlife park ruled by a cast of quirky animals, Johannes, a charismatic free dog and the appointed Eyes of the park, narrates a story that dips into the philosophical and the humorous while exploring themes of loss, community, love, and hope.

The Fire, the Water, and Maudie McGinn

Neurodivergent Maudie settles into a small California town after wildfires force her to evacuate her dad's. As she learns to express herself through surfing, Maudie struggles with whether to confide in her dad about the physical and emotional abuse she experiences at her mom's house.

Frankie and Friends

Art by Alea Marley | When Frankie's mom leaves to cover a breaking news story, Frankie copes by creating her own news show with the help of some imaginary pals and a furry friend. Can this news crew discover the source of the mysterious crying?

From Here to There

Art by Ya-Ling Huang | Learn how to use and draw maps in everyday life! With child-friendly illustrations and a warm father-daughter bond, this book is a fun journey into the world of cartography.

Art by Alyssa Waterbury | While visiting their grandmother, 10-year-old Sly discovers the trapped spirit of a long-lost relative. Using their quick wit and intuition, Sly must decipher clues to free both their distant cousin and their grandmother from an eternity behind the mysterious mirror.

Glitter Everywhere!

Art by Chaaya Prabhat | From flitter to slivers to glitter: an engaging and wide-ranging look into the history, future, and impact of the sparkly stuff that has fascinated people for ages.

Great Carrier Reef

Art by Gordy Wright | Dive deep to see new life flourish as a former aircraft carrier is transformed into the world's largest artificial reef.

Before Daisy’s mother disappeared, she instructed her daughter to seek help in Kew Gardens should something go wrong. Now that everything has fallen apart and Daisy is on her own, she must travel to a magical world to find her mother, herself, and the many meanings of family.

Twelve-year-old Trev just wants to protect his family. When he learns his violent stepfather is scheduled to be released from jail, Trev feels torn between using his hands to fight or to make art. Compelling prose and complex characters create a story that hits hard.

Holding Her Own

Art by Shannon Wright | Explore the life and legacy of Black cartoonist Jackie Ormes through joyful illustrations that reflect her evolving art style. This story draws attention to an oft-overlooked artist whose significant accomplishments broke down barriers of her time.

When Title IX creates funding for a girls' basketball team, Judi gives up her spot on the cheer squad to join the Lady Bears. With enough determination and hard work, can the team earn their rights to equal treatment and climb their way to the championship?

The House That Whispers

Between growing family tension, an increasingly forgetful grandma, and being called a name that feels all wrong, Simon is miserable on a would-be fun trip to Nanaleen's. When a ghost hunting game gets too real, Simon must fix everything before his life completely falls apart.

How the Sea Came to Be

Art by Amanda Hall | Travel back to the beginning of time and to the bottom of the sea in this captivating journey with vivid art and engaging verse that chronicles how life in our oceans has evolved over time.

How to Bird

Discover the joy of birding in the heart of the city! This approachable and inclusive guide for children introduces birdwatching strategies that make nature accessible.

I'm From

Art by Oge Mora | A glimpse into the daily life of a young Black boy as he recognizes his place within his family and community and affirms: "I come from / somewhere."

José and El Perro

Art by Gloria Félix | José tries to give the new family dog commands, but Feliz just won't obey—that is, until José realizes that his dog doesn't understand Spanish. He is determined to make Feliz as bilingual as the rest of the family.

Juego de libertad: Mestre Bimba y el arte de la Capoeira

¡Patada! ¡Golpe! ¡Salto! ¡Axé! La Capoeira es una combinación de artes marciales, acrobacias, danza y música. Descubre cómo estos movimientos rítmicos fueron inicialmente prohibidos y luego se convirtieron en una nueva tradición brasileña.

Think, feel, move, JUMP! Discover the world from a bug's eye view in this immersive and informative look at a day in the life of an amazing arachnid.

Just Like Grandma

Art by Julie Flett | In this warmly illustrated tale about a Native American family, Becca admires her grandmother's traditional beading and Fancy Shawl dancing, while Grandma appreciates Becca's basketball skills. Together, they realize that they have more in common than they thought.

Kicks in the Sky

Ever wonder how those sneakers got on the power line? In this exuberant, energetic, and neon-hued story, a group of city kids develop skills beyond their wildest dreams as they search for an answer that "only the birds know."

Lasagna Means I Love You

Feeling disconnected from her roots when she finds herself in the New York City foster care system, Mo begins writing letters to her late grandmother. Inspired by a stolen cookbook, Mo builds a website and connects with others to share recipes and find her relatives.

Link + Hud: Heroes by a Hair

Imaginative brothers Lincoln and Hudson Dupré may have met their match when their parents hire a new, no-nonsense babysitter. Will Ms. Joyce put the boys in their place, or will Link and Hud retire yet another sitter?

The Lion Queen

Art by Tara Anand | A compelling story of the first woman charged to protect India's Gir Forest and the endangered Asiatic lions that live there. Learn how her courage to pursue her dream inspired other women to do the same.

The Lost Year

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Matthew's Ukrainian American great-grandmother moves in. When Matthew discovers letters exchanged between cousins during the famine in 1930s Ukraine, his relationship with GG and understanding of her life and true identity are permanently altered.

Una niña que crece en una finca de piñas en Mexico aprende el verdadero significado de la palabra magia y como esta puede encontrarse tanto en los momentos alegres y brillantes así como tristes y oscuros.

Mama Shamsi at the Bazaar

Art by Maya Fidawi | Samira is overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of the bazaar in Tehran. Through the fantastical lens of her grandmother's imagination and the comfort of her chador, Samira sees the joys and wonders of her bustling community and discovers that sometimes a little whimsy goes a long way.

The Many Masks of Andy Zhou

Andy has a lot on his plate: middle school, changing friendships, complicated family, and his own anxiety. Through a budding passion for art, Andy finds ways to help others in his life and discovers who he wants to be in this contemporary slice-of-life story.

A broad range of emotions, opinions, and cultures are on display when seventh graders at Rye Middle School debate the implications of their school's racially charged mascot.

Art by Jani Balakumar | Tehzeeb loves creating beautiful mehndi designs for his family and friends. When his uncle insists it's for girls, will Tez still enjoy practicing mehndi?

As the first kid in his family to be born in the U.S., Pedro often feels more American than Mexican. While on a family roadtrip to bring his abuelito from Mexico to live in California, Pedro reconnects with his roots and learns more about the place his family calls home.

Mil mariposas blancas

Arte de Gina Maldonado, traducido por Carlos E. Calvo | Isabella acaba de mudarse de Colombia a los Estados Unidos y está entusiasmada con su primer día de clases. ¡Oh no! La escuela está cerrada debido a una tormenta de nieve. Con la ayuda de una amiga, ¿pudiese Isabella encontrar alegría en este nuevo clima?

The Mona Lisa Vanishes

Art by Brett Helquist | The Mona Lisa has gone missing from the Louvre! Was it a daring thief, a famous painter, or someone else? Experience early 1900s Paris, meet legendary detectives, and contemplate the strange life of Leonardo da Vinci in this thrilling exploration of art, history, and fame.

The Monkey Trial

Meet John Scopes, arrested in 1925 for daring to teach about evolution. A narrative rich in primary sources vividly portrays the clash between science and religion, the intense media scrutiny, and the bravery of a teacher who challenged convention.

A group of students arrive on the first day to find an impressive-looking sandwich seated at the teacher's desk. Baffled, they wonder, could this be their teacher? Hilarity ensues in this silly and unexpected story.

My Baba's Garden

Art by Sydney Smith | Tender illustrations tell the story of a young child and their grandmother. Despite the fact that they speak two different languages, they connect as they care for a garden together and, in the process, create a deep and lasting bond.

My Indigo World

From seed to plant to the bluest blue of all, learn how indigo dye is crafted in community through a practice inspired by traditional jjok dyeing in Korea.

Nena, y Roberta ¿dónde está?

Una conmovedora historia sobre una abuela y su nieta en una misión para rescatar momentos olvidados. A lo largo de su aventura, aprenden que aunque a veces la memoria se desvanece, el amor persiste.

Nothing Else but Miracles

Pop has gone off to fight in World War II. With no mother to keep them in line, Dory and her brothers rely upon the kindness of their Lower East Side community and their own ingenuity to outsmart a nosy landlord, solve a mystery, and hold things together until Pop comes home.

Nuestro techo es azul

Arte de Ashley Vargas | Después de que un huracán destruye su hogar en Puerto Rico, Antonio y su familia recurren a utilizar una lona azul como techo improvisado. Esta historia narra como dos hermanos encuentran consuelo tejiendo cuentos inspirados en el dosel azul que los cubre.

Papá's Magical Water-Jug Clock

Art by Eliza Kinkz | Jesus is excited to go to work with Papa! Papa explains that when the water jug is empty, their work is done, so clever Jesus hatches a plan to distribute all the water by midday. Told through distinct, hand-drawn art, this story presents a balanced lesson about patience and ingenuity.

Parachute Kids

When Mama's visa extension is denied, the Lin kids must stay behind in the U.S. while their mom travels back to Taiwan. With support from family friends, they must learn how to live in this new country, lean on each other, and handle tough life lessons together.

The Party Diaires

Art by Aaliya Jaleel | Contemplative Priya and her extroverted best friend plan a color-themed birthday party for Priya's aunt.

Rainbow Shopping

A recently emigrated Chinese family is usually too busy working to dine together. Textured illustrations provide a feeling of home as they take a long train ride to Chinatown to gather colorful ingredients for a meal that will bring them all together.

Art by Michaela Goade | A contemplative reminder of our universal connection to the earth and to each other, grounded in Mvskoke tradition. Dreamlike illustrations evoke Tlingit creation stories and landscapes in this new presentation of Harjo's acclaimed poem.

Remember Us

It's summer in "The Matchbox" Bushwick, and seventh-grader Sage just wants to play basketball. But outside the game, there's a world of changing friendships, sudden deaths, and homes lost and found. A gritty but lyrical look at what "once was" in 1970s Brooklyn.

Rock, Rosetta, Rock! Roll, Rosetta, Roll!

Art by R. Gregory Christie | Sister Rosetta Tharpe rock and rolled her way to stardom from a young age and became a major genre-crossing musical influence. Tharpe's story is illustrated in blocky colors as bold as her playing.

Roll, Roll, Little Pea

Art by Magali Attiogbé | When one little pea escapes its bowl, an adventure begins. Chant along through the interactive text and vibrant art as little pea narrowly escapes the cat that will crunch, the pig that will munch, and the wolf that will devour it!

Ruby Lost and Found

It's the worst punishment 13-year-old Ruby could imagine: being forced to spend the summer at her grandmother's senior center. As Ruby delves deeper into her Chinese American community, she grapples with her grandfather's death and concern for Nai-Nai's fading memory.

Salma Makes a Home

Art by Anna Bron | Salma's father is finally reuniting with the family in Canada, but she fears he won't love their new home as much as he loves Damascus.

Saving Sunshine

Muslim twins Zara and Zeeshan can't seem to get along! While on a family trip, they find an ailing sea turtle and realize they must work together to save its life and unite against the prejudice they face.

Search for a Giant Squid

Art by Andy Chou Musser | Go on a deep-sea dive in this pick-your-path adventure! Readers choose a team, submarine, and route on their quest to spot an elusive giant squid.

Shipwrecked!

Plunge into the depths of seven famed shipwrecks around the world and learn how they've contributed to our understanding of the past.

Sisters of the Lost Marsh

Six sisters beset by one curse. Young Willa isn't about to let superstition dictate her family's fate, nor her cruel father, the mysterious Full Moon Fayre, or even the Shadow Man.

Otilla stumbles upon a dark castle where a lonely talking skull resides. A true friendship can be found in the most unlikely of places.

The Sky Is Not the Limit

Lyrical text and minimalist art guide budding astronomers on a journey with Voyager 2 over more than four decades of space exploration.

Stars of the Night

Art by Selina Alko | Follow the perilous journey of a group of children at the outset of World War II in Czechoslovakia to safety in England and their relentless search for family in the aftermath. Poignant and layered art illustrates a gripping tale of survival and defiance.

The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels

Art by Claire Powell | The Swift family reunion gives young Shenanigan an opportunity to hunt for Grand Uncle Vile's hidden treasure. But when someone shoves Arch-Aunt Schadenfreude down the stairs, things take a dark and deadly turn, and Shenanigan employs her relatives' help to track down the killer.

Thank a Farmer

Art by Monica Mikai | Meet a diverse group of farmers that provide us with the food we eat every day. Told through colorful illustrations with text that begs to be read aloud.

Art by Nikkolas Smith | Keira and Bianca are best friends, but only at school. At home, Bianca's family flies a Confederate flag, and their differing perspectives on the flag's meaning cause conflict. When a tragedy occurs in their community, they must grapple with the flag's impact and racist history.

There Was a Party for Langston

Art by Jerome and Jarrett Pumphrey | There's a party at the Schomburg Center and everyone's invited! Through a cast of famous luminaries of the 20th century, this beautiful and moving celebration of the life and work of Langston Hughes is told through handmade stamped illustrations and poetic text.

These Olive Trees

A young Palestinian girl is forced to leave her home at a refugee camp along with the precious olive trees her family has cultivated. In pages of moving prose and distinctive illustrations, she finds a way to continue her family's legacy and sustain a connection to her homeland.

They Hold the Line

Art by Molly Mendoza | Lightning strikes, a spark ignites, smoke billows, and danger lurks! Vivid art and powerful text highlight the complex job of firefighters who battle fierce wildfires.

Things in the Basement

Milo ventures into the labyrinthian depths beneath his new house and discovers a world of adventure he never anticipated.

To the Other Side

In search of safety, a young girl invents a game to help her brother endure the long, hard journey across the border to asylum in a new home. Despite fears of monsters and unknowns, the refugee children remain motivated and resilient, even when the game is no longer fun.

Total Garbage

Art by John Hendrix | Where does the garbage we make go and what happens to it once it gets there? Learn how our choices and those of the people and companies around us contribute to global waste and what we can do to lessen our impact.

The Train Home

When a girl grows tired of her loud and crowded apartment, she takes a magical subway ride to fantastical destinations throughout the city.

Since her Muskogee father and Jewish mother separated when she was three, Mia is constantly caught in between—out of place in her Jewish school and disconnected from her Indigenous roots. Can she find a way to forge an identity of her own and embrace all parts of herself?

The Umbrella Maker's Son

In a city of unending rain, Oliver Buckle is expected to follow in his father's footsteps of umbrella-making. Fate, however, has different plans that will plunge Oliver and his best friend into a wild adventure on their way to the heart of a weather conspiracy.

The Unlovable Alina Butt

Alina is a misfit: an awkward tween from Pakistan with frizzy hair, a nose she hasn't quite grown into, and a last name that is the "butt" of every joke. As Alina navigates new friendships and stands up to bullies, her confidence and self-understanding begin to take shape.

Unseen Jungle

Art by Rob Wilson | Discover all the icky, silly, and DISGUSTING facts about the microbial world. From mind-controlling microbes to fart-saving termites, this is a truly engrossing adventure for the science-curious.

Valiente como un león

Leonora supera sus miedos con la ayuda de su amigo león. Pero cuando el dúo prueba una resbaldilla nueva, le toca a ella ser valiente.  

Art by E.B. Lewis | A young girl and her neighbors walk together to participate in an important act of democracy: voting! Photorealistic illustrations modeled after a real-life town highlight how the difficult journey to the polls can be made easier through the power of community.

Mia no es como los demas: es creativa e inteligente. Algunos dicen que es demasiado desordenada o demasiado ruidosa. No es ella, es su wepa. ¿Podrá Mia encontrar un lugar donde quepa su wepa? Una historia que celebra el TDAH y la individualidad.

Art by Rob Dunlavey | What happens when a whale dies? One creature's end brings a new beginning as the whale becomes a feast for deep sea dwellers and a home to nourish all kinds of organisms from zombie worms to microbes.

What Happened to Rachel Riley?

Aspiring investigative journalist Anna Hunt wants to figure out her new school dynamics and why no one talks to Rachel Riley. Anna dives in and uncovers an iceberg of issues, including Rachel's ostracization, pressure to remain silent, and sexual harassment disguised as a game.

When You Can Swim

Beautifully rendered, warm, pastel and watercolor illustrations depict diverse families enjoying swimming in the outdoors. Lyrical prose affirms that all children have a safe, joyful place in nature.

Where the Lockwood Grows

In this skillfully spun futuristic story, two sisters set out to uncover the sinister truth behind the vines that keep their town in never-ending darkness.

Will on the Inside

Amid the challenges of middle school, Will receives a diagnosis of Crohn's disease that may mean the end of soccer. His friendships, social standing, and identity suddenly feel a lot more complicated, and he must embrace who he is, both inside and out.

Window Fishing

Art by Rudy Gutierrez | When a boy hangs a paperclip on a string out of his window, the artist downstairs draws a colorful fish for the boy to reel in. Whimsical, brightly colored art illustrates how their clever idea catches on and spreads delight throughout their East Harlem neighborhood.

A Work in Progress

Told through verse, prose, and illustration, this intimate and powerful novel tackles bullying, eating disorders, and self-esteem issues from the perspective of a middle school boy on the road to healing and self-acceptance.

Worm and Caterpillar Are Friends

Worm and Caterpillar are best friends! They have so much in common. Can their friendship survive some big changes?

The Year My Life Went Down the Toilet

The last thing Al Schneider wants to do is talk about her stomach problems, but after a diagnosis of Crohn's disease, that's all anyone wants her to do! When Al joins a support group and meets Mina, suddenly it’s more than just Crohn’s causing the butterflies in her stomach.

You Are Here: Connecting Flights

In this series of interwoven short stories by AAPI authors, Asian American families find themselves stranded in an airport during a storm. While they wait it out, these characters resist, resolve, and find solidarity against racism to show the world that they belong.

You So Black

Art by London Ladd | A racially charged insult is reclaimed for Black pride and power through bold mixed-media collage and affirming text.

¡El Cucuy también tiene miedo!

Arte de Juliana Perdomo, traducido por Renata Somar | Ramón y El Cucuy hacen una pareja dispareja al descubrir que comparten los mismos miedos y una fuerte aversión al cambio.

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The 100 best-ever children’s books, as chosen by our readers

From the magic of Beatrix Potter to Malorie Blackman's game-changing dystopias, we asked you to share the stories that inspired your love of reading as a child.

18.  Elmer by David McKee (1968)

We said:  A nursery favourite featuring a wonderful elephant of many colours. Elmer and all his differences have subtly taught generations of children that it's ok to be different. 

You said:  It teaches us to be ourselves and embrace our quirks. 

thosedarkpages, Instagram

Where to start with Jacqueline Wilson’s books

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24 must-read books for 6-8-year-olds

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46. Further Doings of Milly-Molly-Mandy  by Joyce Lankester Brisley (1932)

We said:  Venture to the quaintest nooks of rural England with Millicent Margaret Amanda (or Milly-Molly-Mandy, for short), always on a fun escapade in that notorious pink-and-white striped dress.

You said:  I loved M-M-M, the tales of the haberdashery shop and making a tea cosy from bits of the family’s old clothes and the booby prize of a little white rabbit. Simple and evocative of a bygone age.

NichollsTanya, Twitter

24 must-read books for under 5s

The best folk and fairy tales for children

67.  Lulu and the Flying Babies by Posy Simmonds  (1988)

We said : Who wouldn’t feel slightly put-out that their new, younger sibling is getting all the fuss? And that instead of playing in the park, Lulu has to walk around a museum because her little brother is cold. Boring! But then Lulu is whisked away by two cherubs on a magical adventure through the museum which turns out, isn’t so dull after all.

You said:   Lulu and the Flying Babies  mainly because Lulu was chubby and nosey, which gets her into trouble. It reminded me of myself!

Stacey Wing, Facebook

Where to start with Roald Dahl’s books

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93.  Lord of the Flies by William Golding  (1954)

We said:  When a group of boys become stranded on an island, a line is drawn between order and chaos, relating to many of today's problems with unstable governments. Golding's popular novel has been adapted into two films, one in 1963 and 1990.

You said: It was published the same year I was born. I actually thought it was real, it wasn't, was it? It's pretty damn close now that I have aged a bit and am maybe a tad wiser. 

MCR_Author, Twitter

Books ranked in no particular order. Some answers edited for clarity and style.

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Blog – Posted on Monday, Mar 30

125 best children's books of all time.

Whether it’s read out loud by a parent, covertly read under the covers with a flashlight after bedtime, or assigned as class reading — children’s books have the ability to capture imaginations , perhaps more than any other genre.

From Max’s wild rumpus to Winnie’s reflections on true friendship; from Captain Nemo’s mysterious “sea monster” to the loveable March family: here are 125 of the best children’s books of all time , sorted into reading age groups.

Wondering which children's book is the right one for you or your little one? Take our quiz to narrow it down in only 30 seconds!

Which children's book should you read next?

Discover the perfect children's book. Takes 30 seconds!

Best children's books for ages 1-4

1. the runaway bunny by margaret wise brown and clement hurd (ages 1-3).

Published 75 years ago by the same author who brought us  Goodnight Moon ,  The Runaway Bunny  is a board book that talks about the fierce love that a mother has for her child — despite an expert game of hide-and-seek, in which the little bunny keeps running away from his mother. But his mother is never far behind, comfortingly reminding him: “If you run away, I will run after you. For you are my little bunny.”

2.  The Mitten  by Jan Brett (ages 1-3)

When Nichi drops a mitten one day during a walk in the woods, he has no idea who — or what — his mitten is going to end up hosting! First, a mole finds it and crawls into it. Then a rabbit, and so on and so forth, until a brown bear is trying to squeeze into this warm refuge. Gently humorous and lovingly illustrated, this retelling of a Ukrainian folktale will show you where to seek comfort on a cold winter day.

3. Press Here by Hervé Tullet (ages 1-4)

For any child who likes their reading hands-on,  Press Here  is an interactive children’s book they will enjoy. As its description says: simply press the yellow dot on its cover, follow the instructions within, and wait for the magic to unfold! While the dots multiply, change direction, or expand before your very eyes, you’ll find the very limits of imagination tested and your sense of fun broadened.

6. Snuggle Puppy! by Sandra Boynton

Sara Boynton is a popular American cartoonist due to her whimsical illustrations and uncanny sense of fun. And she packs it all into  Snuggle Puppy! : a story about a mother dog telling her puppies how much she loves them. In short, it’s a beautiful and joyful love letter from parent to child that deserves to be read out loud.

5. On the Night You Were Born by Nancy Tillman (ages 1-4)

Every child is special, and there’s no book around that will more splendidly convey that message to them than  On the Night You Were Born . With magical spreads and touching rhymes, this debut picture book is a story that deserves to be read aloud, for it celebrates the most important person: you.

6.  Barnyard Dance ! by Sandra Boynton (ages 1-4)

“Stomp your feet! Clap your hands! Everybody ready for a barnyard dance?” This cute board book from Sandra Boynton is sure to delight young children who love animals and dancing, and will be thrilled to see them combined in such a charming fashion. And if they like this book, then  boy  are they going to love our next entry...

7.  Moo, Baa, La La La!  by Sandra Boynton (ages 1-4)

Farmyard animals are definitely a mainstay of picture books for very young kids. After all, what tot doesn’t love learning all the noises that critters make? Watch out for the early twist when a trio of singing pigs forget what noise they’re supposed to make — and make sure your little one corrects their error!

8.  The Napping House  by Audrey and Don Wood (ages 1-4)

Who naps in the napping house? A dog, a cat, a mouse, and a flea, of course. The rhyming narrative and dusky illustrations detail the slumberful happenings of a family — right up until the sun comes up and the household becomes decidedly more wakeful.

9.  Dear Zoo  by Rod Campbell (ages 1-4)

This narrator of this cute, funny “lift-the-flaps” book is just trying to find the perfect pet. Only problem is, the zoo keeps sending him the wrong kinds of animals, from the too-big elephant to the too-scary snake! But don’t worry — the zoo gets their act together in the end.

10.  Goodnight Moon  by Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd (ages 1-4)

A sweet, sleepy classic beloved by kids and parents of all ages,  Goodnight Moon  takes us through a nighttime ritual of saying goodnight to everything in the “great green room.” Endlessly parodied and copied over the years, there's nothing quite like the original.

11. Belly Button Book by Sandra Boynton (ages 1-4)

Our third entry from the author and illustrator of Barnyard Dance comes the equally endearing Belly Button Book, which teaches toddlers all about the wonders of the human (and hippo) navel.

12. My Truck Is Stuck! by Kevin Lewis and Daniel Kirk (ages 2-4)

Kevin Lewis goes straight for the nerve in this popular childhood book, in which the narrator’s truck hits a pothole and gets stuck! Suffice to say, that is indeed rotten luck. So how can the increasing number of people passing by begin to help? Beautifully illustrated by Daniel Kirk, this is sure to be an instant hit for any child who loves automobiles and happy endings.

Best children's books for ages 3-6

13. corduroy by don freeman (ages 2-5).

Another anthropomorphic bear features in this adorable picture book. Corduroy the teddy lives in the toy section of a department store and wants nothing more than a child to take him home. Sadly, when Lisa meets Corduroy, her mother refuses to buy him because he is missing a button on his overalls. This sets Corduroy on an intrepid quest through the store to try and find his button, so that he might be worthy of Lisa and her love.

14. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle (ages 2-5)

Eric Carle’s signature textured, tissue-paper-based artwork brings this simple story about animals to life. With its bright splashes of color and easy-to-read text, Brown Bear is the perfect beginner book for preschoolers and kindergarteners.

15. Go Away, Big Green Monster! by Ed Emberley (ages 2-5)

Big Green Monster may look scary with his yellow eyes, scraggly hair, and sharp teeth, but this book makes it clear that he’s nothing to be afraid of! After telling all the parts of the Big Green Monster to go away, kids will feel empowered to conquer the “monsters” under their own beds.

16. Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney (ages 2-5)

The most popular childhood books are often the simplest. Llama Llama Red Pajama is about a young llama who’s put to bed, but misses his mother (Mama Llama), even though she’s just downstairs. With beautiful illustrations from the author (and a super-catchy rhyme scheme), Dewdney’s book is a steadfast favorite of parents everywhere.

17. Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems (ages 2-5)

One of the first in Mo Willems’ renowned series for young readers, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! is essentially Fast and Furious for the preschool set. The titular Pigeon — who, as fans will know, is often up to no good — wants nothing more than to drive the bus… which the bus driver has expressly forbidden. It’s up to the reader to keep the pigeon from getting behind that wheel, no matter how much he begs and pleads.

18.  A Mother for Choco  by Keiko Kasza (ages 2-5)

This sweet story of a little yellow bird searching for his mother (not to be confused with P.D. Eastman’s very similar tale) is sure to make you smile. Choco may not find a mother who looks like him, but he does find one to hug him, kiss him, dance with him, and — perhaps most importantly — give him the family he’s always wanted.

19.  The Snowy Day  by Ezra Jack Keats (ages 2-5)

Amazon describes this book as a trailblazer, not least for the first full-color picture book to feature a small hero of color! But that’s not the only reason that The Snowy Day should have a spot on all family bookshelves. The story follows young Peter, who heads out into the city to enjoy freshly fallen snow and all the wonder a white wonderland brings.

20.  The Tiger Who Came to Tea  by Judith Kerr (ages 2-5)

What should a young girl and her mother do when they receive an unexpected house guest — who just so happens to be a tiger? They invite it in for tea, of course! And they proceed to watch in fascination as it moves through their kitchen in an black-striped blur, emptying their cupboards of food. But how this popular childhood book ends will be up to you to discover.

21. The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf and Robert Lawson (ages 3-5)

A story about the importance of being yourself, The Story of Ferdinand follows the titular bull, who would much rather sit amongst the flowers than butt heads with other bulls. One day, his peaceful nature is challenged when some bullfighting men from Madrid appear and offer Ferdinand the chance to be a champion bullfighter.

22. Say Hello! by Rachel Isadora (ages 3-5)

How many ways are there to say hello? Well, more than you might think. There’s “hello,” “hola,” “konnichi wa” — even “woof!” if you happen to speak Dog! This book will walk you through all sorts of different introductory statements, and, most importantly, it will introduce children to the rich diversity of languages that you can find all throughout America.

23. Owl Babies by Martin Waddell and Patrick Benson (ages 3-5)

What are three baby owls to do when they wake up in the middle of the dark night to discover that their mother is gone? Well, fret amongst themselves, for one. On a cuteness scale, this heartwarming and tender story gets 5 stars out of 5 stars — and what’s even better than its artwork is its story, which serves as a reminder that mothers will always return.

24. Geraldine by Elizabeth Lilly (ages 3-6)

Geraldine is a giraffe who’s new to town — and that’s not even the scariest part. Nope. Geraldine has to go to school, where she has no friends and is clearly the odd one out — what with the way she looms heads and feet over the other students. In short, life is hard for a well-meaning giraffe who only wants to fit in! So how can Cassie, another student at school, help? Beautifully told and illustrated by debut author Elizabeth Lilly, this is a heartwarming tale about belonging and being yourself.

25. Albert’s Impossible Toothache by Barbara Williams and Doug Cushman (ages 3-6)

Albert the turtle has a toothache, and his family won’t help him out! They say it’s impossible for turtles to get toothaches, because turtles don’t have teeth — but what they don’t realize is that something else might be bothering Albert. This astute book presents a valuable lesson for parents on the importance of listening to children, even if they don’t always make sense.

26. Duck in the Truck by Jez Alborough (ages 3-6)

Duck is in a pickle: his truck is stuck in the muck! But with the help of his friends, he might just be able to get it out. Fans of Dr. Seuss will rejoice at the lyrical rhymes that detail Duck’s dilemma, and appreciate how the power of teamwork eventually solves it.

27. Families, Families, Families by Suzanne Lang and Max Lang (ages 3-6)

This book about all the possible combinations of moms, dads, kids, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and cousins — as shown by fun portraits of cartoon animals — proves that there’s no wrong way to make a family. There's hardly a  children's book about diversity  that's closer to home than this.

28. Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems (ages 3-6)

Named after Willems’ real-life daughter, Trixie is a toddler who loves pushing quarters into the machines at the laundromat. But when she accidentally leaves her beloved toy rabbit by the laundry machines, she’s absolutely distraught: how can she tell her dad to go back when she doesn't have the words to do it? The winner of the 2005 Caldecott Medal, this book spawned two further adventures of Trixie and Knuffle Bunny as well as a musical.

29. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr., John Archambault, and Lois Ehlert (ages 3-6)

“Chicka chicka boom boom, will there be enough room?” Designed to help kids recognize letters of the alphabet, this rhyming story recounts an ill-fated race up a coconut tree — with the contestants being none other than A, B, C and all the other letters themselves!

30. The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler (ages 3-7)

A mouse walks through the woods, which is already an adventure that’s fraught with danger. For the woods teems with predators, including a fox, an owl, and a snake — just to name a few of the creatures that would gladly see an unsuspecting mouse as a tasty snack.

To escape their jaws, our brave protagonist invents a monstrous gruffalo, who he claims will come and protect him should any harm befall him. So what will happen when the mouse encounters a real gruffalo at the end of his journey? With 13 million copies sold over the world, The Gruffalo deserves a spot on every child’s bookshelf — not to mention it’s one of only a few popular childhood books that has been developed into a play on Broadway!

31. The Little Engine That Could: 90th Anniversary Edition by Watty Piper and Dan Santat (ages 3-7)

Oh boy! A long train must be tugged over a mountain, but the job might be more problematic than it seems. Bigger engines are refusing to pull the train and nothing’s getting done — until the task ultimately falls upon a little engine. And so our locomotive goes puffing up the mountain, repeating its signature phrase, “I think I can.” This is its classic story, one that teaches many a child about determination and defying expectations.

32. The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi (ages 3-7)

Raise your hand if you know the feeling of someone mispronouncing your name. Is your hand up? Then you might want to check out this book 😉 Unhei is a girl who’s just moved to America from Korea — and, like every other child who’s been in her place, she’s anxious about making friends at her new school. Knowing that her name is hard to pronounce, she tells her classmates that she’ll choose a name next week. What follows is a heartwarming story about overcoming cultural and racial differences, and staying true to yourself.

33.  The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales  by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith (ages 3-7)

A good children’s book should accomplish two things. It needs to: 1) appeal to parents so that they will buy the book in the first place, and 2) appeal to the young minds the story is ultimately for. And, judging by the title alone, this book neatly checks off that second task! As for parents, they will likely be swayed by Scieszka and Smith's fairy-tale-spoofing stories, such as “The Really Ugly Duckling,” and “Little Red Running Shorts.” It’s a true treat for the young and the, well, not-so-young.

34. The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams and Florence Graham (ages 3-7)

Once a well-loved toy rabbit, the velveteen rabbit is now a worn-out and discarded nursery item. Luckily, a magic fairy is watching out for him and takes the little rabbit to — where else? — Rabbitland! In a Pinocchio-like twist, the velveteen rabbit becomes “real” through the love of a child who finds him there.

35. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (ages 3-7)

Children have loved The Very Hungry Caterpillar for decades now, in part because of its fun cardboard cut-outs that allow the child to visualise the caterpillar eating its way through a lot of food. Of course, adults also enjoy the book for the fantasy that endless eating will allow them to transform into a beautiful butterfly. Simply put, it’s a treat for the whole family!

36.  Tomorrow I'll Be Brave  by Jessica Hische (ages 3-7)

Typography isn’t just for adults, as Hische proves in this beautifully designed book that is chock-full of comforting reminders to children that everything will be okay. Written in beautifully-crafted hand-lettered, one such message is:

Tomorrow I'll be all the things I tried to be today:

Adventurous, Strong, Smart, Curious, Creative, Confident, & Brave.

And if I wasn't one of them, I know that it's OK.

37. We're Different, We're the Same by Bobbi Kates and Joe Mathieu (ages 3-7)

For many generations, Sesame Street has had an uncanny knack for imparting pearls of wisdom through entertaining storytelling. We’re Different, We’re the Same tells us about the things that we all have in common with each other — even if we look different on the outside. At the end of the day, it’s those commonalities that help us connect. But it’s our differences that make the world such a special place.

38. The Red Balloon by Albert Lamorisse (ages 3-7)

In a twist, this book is actually adapted from the short film of the same name! Both the film and book follow Pascal Lamorisse, a boy who comes across a red balloon on his way to school one morning. He quickly discovers that the balloon has a mind of its own — one bent on having adventures around the city of Paris. As Pascal and his new airy friend set about doing just that, this book portrays their adventures with such beautiful pictures that you’ll find yourself wishing you were a child on a bright Parisian day, too.

39. Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss (ages 3-7)

One of the biggest unspoken rules of children’s fiction is  not to be didactic : young readers want to be engaged and entertained, not preached to. The sole exception to this rule might be  Green Eggs and Ham , in which a fussy eater is convinced to move outside his comfort zone and sample a dish of unusually colored eggs and pork.

40. Big Book of the Berenstain Bears by Jan and Stan Berenstain (ages 3-7)

This anthology of exciting, lesson-filled stories about the ever-busy Berenstain Bears contains such classics as  The Berenstain Bears Go to the Doctor  and  The Berenstain Bears and the Messy Room . Kids will learn all about the world, their lives, and their responsibilities through the entertaining antics of Brother and Sister Bear, not to mention the wise words of Mama and Papa.

41.  Lost and Found  by Oliver Jeffers (ages 3-7)

When a lost penguin turns up on his doorstep, a young boy decides that the only thing to do is return him home. So off they set on a rowboat to Antarctica, where the boy will discover that what the penguin seeks may not be found at the South Pole. The winner of multiple prestigious awards,  Lost and Found  was adapted as an animated short in 2008.

42. Love You Forever by Robert Munsch and Sheila McGraw (ages 3-7)

Told over the course of a lifetime, this sweet picture book portrays the evolving relationship between a son and his mother through the lens of a lullaby she sings, promising to always love him. Through the son’s difficult adolescence and into adulthood, she continues to sing the song and carries on her promise. The ending has been known to bring adults to tears, so be prepared with a box of tissues.

43. The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter (ages 3-7)

Peter is a mischievous bunny who breaks into Farmer McGregor’s vegetable patch (despite his mother’s warnings) and eats so much produce that he falls into a food coma. When the farmer discovers Peter asleep in his ruined crops, a chase ensues. Will Peter escape in time for tea? Will the farmer be compensated for his loss of livelihood? Despite its now-classic status, publishers in 1901 weren’t keen on Potter’s book — which led to it becoming one of the earliest  self-publishing successes .

44. Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey (ages 3-7)

The winner of 1942’s Caldecott Medal centers on a pair of ducks who choose to raise their ducklings in a public garden in the center of Boston. Celebrated for its postcard portrayal of Beantown, McCloskey’s book was chosen as the official children’s book of Massachusetts — an accolade few authors can claim!

45. Jamberry by Bruce Degen (ages 3-7)

A boy loves berries. A bear loves rhymes. Together they go on a journey to Berryland, where they can pick fruit, make friends with raspberry rabbits, ice-skate on jelly, and make rhymes all day long! For fanciful young children, certainly nothing could be better than that.

46. Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth by Oliver Jeffers (ages 3-7)

In terms of introducing young kids to the wonders of the world, this book is pretty first-rate. Illustrated in his distinctively lush, wholesome style, Jeffers’ book takes its readers on a tour of our planet, from oceans to cities and from the earth to the sky. It’s the sort of book that you can really see children treasuring as they grow up and experience more of the world around them.

Best children's books for ages 5-8

47. doctor de soto by william steig (ages 4-7).

Doctor De Soto is a talented mouse dentist who always treats his patients with as much care as possible. But what happens when a fox arrives to get a bad tooth replaced — and, while under anaesthesia, admits that he loves to eat mice? Well, the good doctor and his wife are just going to have to “outfox the fox”... which they do by gluing his mouth clean shut!

48. Curious George by Margaret and H.A. Rey (ages 4-7)

The adventures of mischievous little monkey Curious George commence with this thrilling tale, originally published in 1941. George’s story begins in the jungles of Africa, where the Man in the Yellow Hat captures him in order to bring him to America. However, far from being scared, George is excited — and wastes no time exploring his new surroundings. From trying to fly with seagulls to being arrested for an accidental call to the fire department, George is constantly getting into scrapes! Luckily, the Man in the Yellow Hat is always there to bail him out.

49.  I Know a Lot of Things  by Ann and Paul Rand (ages 4-7)

A tribute to the insatiable curiosity of children, this classic picture book by Ann Rand (not to be confused with the author of  The Fountainhead ) is told from the perspective of a self-assured child (“I know when I look in the mirror what I see is me”). Published in 1954,  I Know a Lot of Things  boasts wonderful modernist illustrations from Paul Rand, a designer who created corporate logos for the likes of UPS and IBM.

50.  I Want My Hat Back  by Jon Klassen (ages 4-7)

A brown bear is upset. He’s lost his red hat, and none of the animals in the woods knows where it is — that is, with one exception. This simple, charming, and hilarious picture book by Canadian illustrator Jon Klassen has quickly become a modern favorite, inspiring a number of hat-based follow-ups and even a  stage play at London’s National Theatre .

51.  The Paper Bag Princess  by Robert Munsch and Michael Martchenko (ages 4-7)

Numbers don’t lie, and the truth is that this beloved childhood (and feminist) classic has unsurprisingly sold over five million copies since it was published in 1999. Putting a twist on the common fantasy trope wherein a prince saves a princess from a dragon, The Paperbag Princess sees Princess Elizabeth taking justice into her own hands after a dragon destroys her castle and steals her fiancé, Prince Ronald. With all of her belongings in cinders, she dons a paper bag dress and sets out the outwit the dragon. And then comes the next twist… but you’ll have to read the book to discover it for yourself.

52. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg (ages 4-7)

Is there anything more magical than childhood Christmas Eve nights, half-spent trying to sleep so that Christmas morning comes quicker — and the other half spent trying to stay awake to get a glimpse of Santa and his reindeer? But the issue for the young boy in this story is that he’s not sure whether he believes anymore in Santa. Luckily, there’s a steam engine horn slowly growing louder, and the Polar Express is approaching to take him on a wintery journey to the North Pole.

53.  The Skin You Live In  by Michael Tyler and David Lee Csicsko (ages 4-8)

The skin you have fun in;

the skin that you run in;

the skin that you hop,

skip and jump in the sun in…

With nursery rhyme cadence and vibrant illustrations, The Skin You Live In truly aims to encourage acceptance of all different types of skin — all the while emphasizing that we are more than our skin.

54. Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin and James Dean (ages 4-8)

The book that kicked off the bestselling Pete the Cat series, I Love My White Shoes follows the eponymous character as he walks around wearing a brand-new pair of white shoes. But the forces of nature (including a pile of strawberries and blueberries) have other ideas for him, and his shoes gradually change from white to red to brown! But it’s all groovy, because Pete the Cat doesn’t let many things get him down in this fun series that all children will love.

55.  Strega Nona  by Tomie dePaola (ages 4-8)

Strega Nona is the grandmother that everyone wants to have. She lives in southern Italy, cures people’s illnesses, and can even cook a great bowl of pasta. But when her helper tries to use her magical pasta pot himself one day, the pot overflows, proving that there is such a thing as too much pasta — especially when said pasta gets out of control and nearly buries an entire village. A sticky situation, indeed! Luckily, Strega Nona isn’t a witch doctor for nothing — and she has the tools and wits to save the day.

56.  The Giving Tree  by Shel Silverstein (ages 4-8)

A child and a tree: the friendship that you probably never accounted for. Yet that’s the central relationship in  The Giving Tree , a story about a young boy who grows up spending time with his apple tree, who ages with him. Sad and undoubtedly controversial for the way that it depicts the unconditional nature of “giving,”  The Giving Tree  is nevertheless an undisputed staple of children’s literature and an oft-cited  inspirational read .

57.  The Heart and the Bottle  by Oliver Jeffers (ages 4-8)

Grief isn’t a topic that necessarily attracts children like bees to honey, but it’s an essential one. And grief exactly what The Heart and the Bottle sets out to cover: a slim picture book, it nevertheless is one of the best stories about the subject in children’s literature. It never underplays grief or tries to make it less complicated than it is. And it’s sure to touch both children and parents equally as a reminder that there is always the chance of finding joy after loss.

58.  The Colors of Us  by Karen Katz (ages 4-8)

Lena is seven-years-old and excited to start painting a self-portrait. But who knew that brown could come in so many different shades? A celebration of skin color and diversity, The Colors of Us is a must-read for all young children as it shows positively how we are each beautiful in our own unique ways.

59. The Frog and Toad Treasury by Arnold Lobel (ages 4-8)

This is a compendium of the classic adventures of Frog and Toad, Arnold Lobel’s cherished creations. Though Frog and Toad are, well, a frog and a toad, children everywhere will take to them instantly as they navigate a number of small misunderstandings and everyday situations, from a search for a lost button to a memorable episode where they can’t stop eating cookies. First published in 1970, this series is beloved for more than its simple illustrations: the steadfast love and friendship between Frog and Toad has lit up the lives of millions of readers around the world.

60. The Storm Whale by Benji Davies (ages 4-8)

Davies’ picture book about Noi, a young boy who lives by the sea with his dad and their six cats, is a  Moby-Dick  for kids. Every morning, Noi watches his dad set out on a fishing book and waits until dark for his return. One night, a storm washes a small whale up unto the shore. Noi visits the whale and begins talking to it, discovering it is a good listener. When the father finally returns and sees this, he realizes he may have been missing something: his son is lonely. Father and son eventually learn to be there for each other — weathering life’s storms side by side.

61. The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen (ages 4-8)

One of Anderson’s most famous fairy tales,  The Ugly Duckling  has a concept that is as simple as it is well-known: a young and “homely” bird is taunted by his peers for his appearance. He takes the teasing on his chin and goes about life his own way, all the while maturing into a beautiful swan — much to the surprise of others. While this premise might seem vain on the surface, people everywhere should read this book to learn about the meaning of true beauty.

62.  Where the Wild Things Are  by Maurice Sendak (ages 4-8)

Let the wild rumpus start: this beloved book is now over 55 years old! And it’s still as captivating as the day it was published. When Max puts on his wolf costume and starts misbehaving, he gets sent to bed without supper. But then… something magical happens. A forest appears in his room — and the adventure begins. Max’s journey to where the wild things are is a timeless one, and today’s children will be just as eager to follow him on his whimsical adventures.

63.  If You Give a Mouse a Cookie  by Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond (ages 4-8)

You could argue that the moral of this story is “no good deed goes unpunished.” A mouse asks a young boy for a cookie. But when he gets that cookie, he then needs a glass of milk, and then a straw, and so on. It’s never too early to teach your kids about the slippery slope — and why you shouldn’t feed mice.

64. A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead and Erin E. Stead (ages 4-8)

Zookeeper Amos McGee is a busy guy: from playing chess with the elephants to reading stories to the owls, his schedule is simply jam-packed. But what happens when he wakes up with a cold and can’t go to work? Well, his animal friends will just have to come to him instead.

65. Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson (ages 4-8)

Kid lit authors are always looking for subjects their readers can relate to. And what do all three-year-old children know about? Crayons, of course! The titular hero of Johnson’s classic book has a crayon that brings anything he draws to life. Thankfully, Harold seems to be a decent artist — if other kids his age had this magical crayon, the world would be filled with misshapen dogs and seriously sub-code houses.

66.  Marisol McDonald Doesn’t Match  by Monica Brown and Sara Palacios (ages 4-8)

For those of you who don’t adhere to traditional norms, you have a new hero in Marisol McDonald. She loves wearing polka dots and stripes together. Mismatched socks? Perfect! Peanut butter and jelly burritos? *Chef’s kiss* When her friends challenge her to dress normally for a day, she quickly finds out that the key to happiness is “to thine own self be true” — a lesson that plenty of kids (and adults) could stand to learn.

67.  Lovely  by Jess Hong (ages 4-8)

An ode to positivity and acceptance, this book encourages children to see beauty in everyone. Tall, small, light skin, dark skin, curly hair, straight hair — everything is lovely when you know where to look! If you’re hoping to start a child on right foot when it comes to embracing diversity of race, culture, and sexual orientation, then this is the perfect gift.

68. Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans (ages 4-8)

You know how it goes. “In an old house in Paris that was covered in vines, lived twelve little girls in two straight lines…. The smallest one was Madeline.” Over the years, the plucky French Madeline would go across the world on many exotic adventures. But in the first of her books, Madeline has to contend with something a little closer to home: appendicitis!

69. Sharko and Hippo by Elliott Kalan and Andrea Tsurumi (ages 4-8)

A shark and a hippo struggle to get their fishing trip off the ground. Hippo's knack for misunderstanding Sharko's requests means that they end with pails instead of poles and a goat instead of a boat. Directly inspired by the comedies of the Marx Brothers, former Daily Show writer Elliott Kalan has packed this book with silly wordplay and a timeless love for the absurd.

In this hilarious sequel to If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, the young host is again run ragged by a surprise guest. Young readers will delight in the comic complications that follow when a little boy entertains a gregarious moose.

Children's Choices for 1992 (IRA/CBC)

70. If You Give a Moose a Muffin by Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond (ages 4-8)

Oh no! The boy from  If You Give a Mouse a Cookie  didn’t learn his lesson! When a big ol’ moose pops by for a visit, our hero serves him up a muffin — which triggers another hilarious chain of escalating consequences. If you still can’t get enough of this series, there’s another 14 books waiting for you, including  If You Give a Pig a Pancake  and  If You Give a Dog a Donut . Will the boy never learn? Animals shouldn’t be eating refined carbs!

71. Julián is a Mermaid by Jessica Love (ages 4-8)

One of the most exciting recent trends in children’s publishing is an improvement in representation; for far too long, the heroes in kids’ books were all cut from almost exactly the same cloth. And speaking of cloth, this book tells the story of a young Latino boy who becomes fixated on creating a fabulous mermaid costume. But what will his beloved abuela make of this new obsession? Words of love and vivid artwork bring this touching tale of imagination and acceptance to life

72. Bread and Jam For Frances by Russell and Lillian Hoban (ages 4-8)

Picky eaters everywhere should relate to Frances the badger, who refuses to eat anything but bread and jam. No matter what time it is, whether she’s at home or school, this meal is her one and only preference. Can her parents crack the code to Frances’ curious culinary condition — or will they be stuck with a daughter eating bread and jam forever?

73.  This is How We Do It  by Matt Lamothe (ages 5-6)

Lamothe’s colorfully illustrated children’s book follows one day in the lives of seven real children from seven different countries: Italy, Japan, Iran, Indie, Peru, Uganda, and Russia. While each child’s story varies in the details, one fact remains common among all of them: they all love to play and are enriched by the love of their communities.

74.  Thunder Boy Jr.  by Sherman Alexie and Yuyi Morales (ages 5-6)

Thunder Boy Jr. is the son of Big Thunder. It’s a cool name, sure, but Little Thunder wants his own name — one that signifies something cool about him . So, father and son set out to find Little Thunder the perfect name, showing young readers the power of a father-son bond along the way.

75.  The Story of Babar  by Jean De Brunhoff (ages 5-8)

The story of an elephant that has enchanted generations has a sad start: young elephant Babar’s mother is killed by a hunter. To escape the same fate, Babar flees to the city where he is befriended and cared for by the kindly Old Lady, who helps him obtain an education. Eventually, at the behest of his cousins Celeste and Arthur, Babar returns to the jungle where he is crowned King of the Elephants.

76.  The Jolly Christmas Postman  by Janet and Allan Ahlberg (ages 5-8)

It’s hard to beat The Grinch Who Stole Christmas as the quintessential Christmas book, but The Jolly Christmas Postman definitely matches it. Combining two wonderful things — fairy tale characters and the magic of the Season — it’s about a cheerful postman who receives letters from all sorts of people and creatures, including the Big Bad Wolf, a Wicked Witch, and all the King’s men. A must-read in the Christmas season.

77. Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish and Fritz Siebel (ages 5-8)

When Amelia Bedelia goes to work for the Rogers family, she’s ready to do exactly as they say — and she does! But from “drawing” the drapes in a sketchbook to “dressing” the chicken in clothes, her performance doesn’t quiiiite meet the Rogers’ expectations. Luckily, all is forgiven when she makes her signature dish: a mouth-watering lemon meringue pie.

78. Everybody Cooks Rice by Norah Dooley and Peter J. Thornton (ages 5-8)

Carrie is hungry, but her brother isn’t home for dinner yet — so she sets out to find him, knowing he’s probably at one of their neighbors’ houses. Along the way, Carrie discovers the many tasty dishes of her friends’ dinners, united by one simple thing: they all involve rice in some way. This thoughtful story demonstrates a range of different cultural identities and experiences to children and celebrates how small things can bring us all together.

79.  Horton Hatches the Egg  by Dr. Seuss (ages 5-8)

Everyone’s favorite friendly elephant gets tricked into looking after an egg while its mother takes a vacation in the sun. But when you weigh a literal ton, nesting on a bird’s egg becomes a slight challenge. Horton proved to be enough of a hit with kids that Dr. Seuss returned to him with 1954’s follow-up, Horton Hears a Who .

80. Are You My Mother? by P.D. Eastman (ages 5-8)

Knowing that her egg will soon hatch, a mother bird ventures out to get food for her baby. But when the chick emerges with no mother to be found, he decides to leave the nest and look for her — with initially comedic but ultimately heartwarming results.

81.  Where the Sidewalk Ends  by Shel Silverstein (ages 6-8)

It’s impossible not to fall in love with Shel Silverstein’s poetry collections, and  Where the Sidewalk Ends  is no exception. Inside these charmingly illustrated pages lie stories about a boy who turns into a TV set and a girl who eats a whale, places where shoes fly and sisters are auctioned off, and dentists who take crocodiles as patients.

82.  The Cricket in Times Square  by George Selden and Garth Williams (ages 6-9)

The setting is Times Square. The cast of characters? Chester, a cricket; Mario, a little boy; Tucker, a mouse, and Harry the Cat. In this Newberry award-winning novel, this group of misfits get up to a lot of fun in the Big Apple — and their adventures might even come with unexpected results for an almost bankrupt newsstand!

83. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst and Ray Cruz (ages 6-9)

We’ve all had days like Alexander’s… well, maybe not quite so terrible. Our long-suffering narrator wakes up with gum in his hair, trips on a skateboard, and drops his sweater in a wet sink — and that’s just on the first page! From there, countless more mishaps befall him, and all he can do is wait for the day to be over. Still, Alexander’s tale remains immensely enjoyable (not least because of his impulse to move to Australia every time something goes wrong).

84.  The Lorax  by Dr. Seuss (ages 6-9)

The Lorax has all of Dr. Seuss’s genius: his inimitable rhymes, his wondrous illustrations, and his genial sense of humor. But there’s something else here that elevates it beyond his other works, and that’s this book’s environmentalist theme. For the Once-ler’s message about the Truffula trees that were cruelly chopped down in Dr. Seuss’s world is tantamount to the swathes of nature in our world — and this book deserves to be read by every child, if just to hear one of the wisest children’s authors out.

85.  The Borrowers  by Mary Norton (ages 7-10)

Pod and Homily Clock, along with their daughter Arrietty, aren’t exactly “normal.” They’re Borrowers: tiny folk who live in our households without our knowledge. To survive, they “borrow” objects from big people — hence their namesake. Needless to say, the line between big people and Borrowers is very strict… but Arrietty is growing up and is desperate for a friend, which will complicate things. Beautifully adapted into a film by Studio Ghibli in 2010, this book won the 1952 Carnegie Medal and is still a children’s classic today.

Best children's books for ages 8+

86.  charlotte’s web  by e.b. white and garth williams (ages 8-12).

A sweet piglet named Wilbur and a clever spider named Charlotte become close friends in this deftly written novel from E.B. White. As little Wilbur grows and wonders what will become of him, Charlotte hatches a plan to save him from the grim fate of the slaughterhouse: she will write messages in her web to convince people that Wilbur is special. A beloved tale of true friendship, Charlotte’s Web remains one of the most popular childhood books more than 60 years after its publication.

87.  Oh, the Places You’ll Go!  by Dr. Seuss (ages 8-12)

Perhaps the most famous children’s book of all time is more than just everyone’s go-to graduation gift! Full of the staples of Dr. Seuss’s works, it’s indeed the ideal pep talk for people of all ages. You’ll find yourself coming for the iconic rhymes and whimsical illustrations , but staying for the deep wisdom that Dr. Seuss imparts. (Not to mention it features one of the most-repeated quotes of all: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”)

88. Stuart Little by E.B. White and Garth Williams (ages 8-12)

Before  Charlotte’s Web  came  Stuart Little . E.B. White, the award-winning author of both novels, described the inspiration for  Stuart Little  thusly: "Many years ago I went to bed one night in a railway sleeping car, and during the night I dreamed about a tiny boy who acted rather like a rat. That's how the story of Stuart Little got started.”

He went on to create just that: the story of a child who  looks  like a mouse and must face the world of humans like so. With its iconic illustrations by Garth Williams,  Stuart Little  is a reminder that size means nothing when you’ve got the determination of a lion.

89.  Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing  by Judy Blume (ages 8+)

Peter Hatcher doesn’t have it easy. He’s in the fourth grade, which is hard enough,  and  he has a horrendous 2.5-year-old brother named Fudge. Fudge bites, screams, and throws tantrums — but things really come to a head when he one day swallows Peter’s pet turtle. Now, Peter may be a fourth grade nothing, but he’s simply had enough! Written by Judy Blume, one of the best children’s book authors around, this bestseller is a favorite for its message about family and the lessons learned during the transition from childhood to adolescence.

90.  Pippi Longstocking  by Astrid Lindgren (ages 8-12)

Meet Pippi Longstocking (full name: Pippilotta Delicatessa Windowshade Mackrelmint Ephraim's Daughter Longstocking). As her name suggests, she's no ordinary girl. Since she was first introduced to readers in 1945, her playfulness, unconventional attitude, tenacity, and supernatural strength has made her a hero to children around the world. Pippi's adventures have now been translated into 76 languages — and they’re all worth reading. (The books that is, not the translations. That would be a lot of work).

91.  Beezus and Ramona  by Beverly Cleary (ages 8+)

The beloved  Ramona  series was actually born of Beverly Cleary’s previous  Henry Huggins  series, where Beezus was one of Henry’s friends and Ramona was only the annoying younger sister (you know the type). But it turned out that Ramona Quimby had too much of a personality. Clearly herself said, “I wrote in “Ramona,” made a few references to her, gave her one brief scene, and felt that was the end of her. Little did I dream, to utilize a trite expression from books of my adolescence, that she would assume control books of her own.”

This series, which begins with  Beezus and Ramona , is her time to shine. With humor, spunk, complexity, and  plenty  of attitude, Ramona Quimby navigates first to fourth grade. It’s a fun-filled world from Ramona’s  point of view  (even though it admittedly has a lot of grown-ups), and you can depend on Cleary, one of the most decorated children’s authors of all time, to give all of it her expert touch.

92.  A Bear Called Paddington  by Michael Bond (ages 8+)

The first installment of the much-loved Paddington books, A Bear Called Paddington traces the origins of the eponymous character. Left on a London train platform with a note that reads “Please look after this bear,” Paddington is discovered and adopted by the well-to-do Brown family. And while having a bear in the house certainly presents, shall we say, unique challenges, the Browns are always there to help Paddington out of trouble.

93.  Bridge to Terabithia  by Katherine Paterson (ages 8+)

This heart-wrenching tale of imagination, friendship, and loss has been a staple of children’s literature for over 40 years. It begins with Jess Aarons, a fifth-grade athlete, getting beaten in a footrace by new girl Leslie Burke. After his jealousy subsides, he realizes how much he and Leslie have in common, and they become friends — eventually creating the magical, imaginary kingdom of Terabithia in the woods. But when tragedy strikes, Jess must grapple with his grief alone… and try to preserve Terabithia, even when it seems impossible to stay hopeful.

94.  Charlie and the Chocolate Factory  by Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake (ages 8+)

Young Charlie Bucket has always heard stories of Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory, which has been closed to the public for years. When he miraculously  wins the chance to visit the factory , along with four other kids, Charlie has no idea what’s in store for him — a whirlwind adventure that involves a treacherous chocolate river, a child-teleporting TV set, and a collection of small, strange factory workers who sing mocking songs at Charlie and his compatriots.

95.  Because of Winn-Dixie  by Kate DiCamillo (ages 8+)

When ten-year-old Opal moves to Florida with her father, a reserved preacher whom she describes as “like a turtle in his shell,” she feels completely alone. That is, until she adopts Winn-Dixie, a scruffy but spirited dog whom she christens after the supermarket where they meet. Winn-Dixie helps Opal bond with her father and break the ice with the townsfolk — a wide cast of characters including a hippie pet store owner and a librarian with a fascinating family history, brought to life by DiCamillo’s highly evocative prose.

96.  Holes  by Louis Sachar (ages 8+)

After being falsely accused of stealing shoes, 14-year-old Stanley Yelnats is sent to a juvenile corrections center called Camp Green Lake, where he and his fellow delinquents are forced to dig seemingly pointless holes in the ground. Alternating between present day and the 19th century, the story digs (!) into the history of the region, revealing interconnected stories that touch on serious social themes.

97. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle (ages 8+)

Madeleine L’Engle’s landmark  children’s fantasy book  follows young Meg and Charles Wallace Murry, along with their neighbor Calvin, as they travel through multiple universes in search of the Murrys’ lost father. Along the way they encounter many extraordinary creatures and things, and must eventually take their place in an intergalactic conflict of good versus evil.  A Wrinkle in Time  is great for kids transitioning from shorter books to longer novels, especially if they have a robust imagination.

98.  James and the Giant Peach  by Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake (ages 8+)

If Harry Potter didn’t get whisked off to wizard school, he might have settled for escaping from his evil aunt and uncle inside an enormous piece of fruit. Indeed, that’s just what happens to the hero in Roald Dahl’s first full-length children’s novel. Once inside this giant floating peach, James befriends its insect inhabitants, and together they all chart a course for adventure across the seas.

99.  Matilda  by Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake (ages 8+)

In children’s literature, precocious kids are rarely appreciated by their parents. Nowhere is this truer than in Roald Dahl’s landmark novel about a genius girl who uses her brilliance (and other singular talents) to get back at them. From the vain and negligent Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood to the cruel, hammer-throwing headmistress of her school, Matilda’s foes had better watch out.

100.  Mr. Popper's Penguins  by Florence and Richard Atwater (ages 8+)

Forget the Jim Carrey film of the same name (Lord knows, popular culture already has) and pick up the original 1938 novel for kids! Mr. Popper is a man of modest means who adopts a penguin that he keeps in his icebox. But as we all learned from the Morgan Freeman documentary, penguins are not solitary creatures. This leads to Popper getting another penguin which — he should have guessed — leads only to more penguins!

101.  Little House on the Prairie  by Laura Ingalls Wilder (ages 8+)

Before the hit TV show, author Laura Ingalls Wilder captured the imagination of the American public with her autobiographical Little House novels. In this second book covering her childhood, the Ingalls family leave their home in Wisconsin and head to Kansas in a covered wagon. But they soon find that life on the prairie is not all milk and honey…

102.  The Giver  by Lois Lowry (ages 10+)

It wouldn’t be an over-exaggeration to say that The Giver is one of the most influential novels of the 21st-century. When children turn twelve in the peaceful community of The Giver, they are assigned jobs for life. Yet young Jonas receives a mysterious role, one that might change the way he views his world. And what he actually does about it might tear apart his beloved hometown — forever.

Lois Lowry crafts a stunningly disturbing dystopian world that forces us to think about the consequences of conformity and contentment. By turn thoughtful, thrilling, and frightening, The Giver is a perennial classic about humanity for children (and, indeed, people) of all ages.

103.  The Little Prince  by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (ages 8+)

Unanimously beloved and universally acclaimed, The Little Prince has a special place in the hearts of everyone — children and adults alike. And it’s pretty simple to see why from the first page from this slender book, which depicts a drawing and asks whether or not you see a hat or an elephant hidden inside a boa constrictor. Trust us: you won’t look back once you’ve seen the world through the eyes of the little prince.

104.  The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis (ages 10+)

Lions, witches, talking fauns — what more could you ask for? Written by a  grandmaster of fantasy , C.S. Lewis,  The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe  kicks off an absolutely incredible fantasy series for children. Though it’s noticeably allegorical, Narnia is nevertheless a world of wonder that teases and stretches the imagination. So if you or your children haven’t read the series yet, it might be time to step into the wardrobe.

105.  The Secret Garden  by Frances Hodgson Burnett (ages 8+)

Young orphan Mary Lennox is not pressed for space, but she lacks a place she can call her own. Living in her uncle’s 100-room mansion on the Yorkshire Moors, she constantly faces locked doors — and her uncle is woefully absent. One day, she stumbles across  a secret garden , surrounded by gates. With the help of two new companions, Mary finds a way into the garden, and becomes determined to bring it back to life.

106.  The Snowman  by Raymond Briggs (ages 8+)

Raymond Brigg’s story of a young boy and a magical snowman who comes to life one evening is an absolute classic. The animated adaptation is shown without fail every Christmas, and it (as well as the original picture book) continues to delight generation after generation of kids. Be warned, though: the ending never fails to pack an emotional punch!

107. The Twenty-One Balloons by William Pene du Bois (ages 8+)

After 40 years as a high school math teacher, Professor William Waterman Sherman decides it’s time to break from routine! Of course, he decides to do it in a grand fashion: flying across the Pacific Ocean. During his expedition, he ends up landing in Krakatoa, an unthinkably wealthy and eccentric place where all the inhabitants seem to hold an intense fascination for hot air balloons.

108.  Treasure Island  by Robert Louis Stevenson (ages 8+)

One of the most famous children’s adventure books ever published, Treasure Island is a rip-roaring ride from the moment young Jim Hawkins meets the sinister Blind Pew at the Admiral Benbow Inn — right up until the climactic battle for treasure on the titular island. The lure of far-off places, treasure maps with an X to mark the spot, and dangerous adventures set against palm trees and sapphire seas are sure to capture any middle schooler’s imagination.

109.  Winnie-the-Pooh  by A. A. Milne and E. H. Shepard (ages 8+)

Who really needs convincing to read Winnie-the-Pooh? From beloved characters like Piglet, Owl, Kango, Roo, Tigger, Eyeore — and, of course, Winnie himself — and touching quotes like, “If there ever comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart, I’ll stay there forever” — it’s a classic that can be passed down from bookshelf to bookshelf.

110.  Little Women  by Louisa May Alcott (ages 9+)

Despite what the title says, the March family is fierce and loving — and not to mention, loveable. The March family consists of Meg, Beth, Jo, and Amy, who all support their mother while their father is away during the New England Civil War. While sisterly adventures and many moments of love are shared, there are also hardships and the trials and tribulations of growing up. Alcott captures both in her timeless novel about family (and she writes  a mean holiday story  too)!

Best children's books for ages 11+

111.  anne of green gables  by l.m. montgomery (ages 12+).

One of the most iconic redhead heroines of all time (right up there with Pippi Longstocking) begins her story in this brilliant novel. Eleven-year-old Anne Shirley is adopted by Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert and is determined to prove herself a worthy daughter and citizen of Avonlea. Anne’s distinct personality and imagination soon brighten the whole town, and despite her many misadventures (such as accidentally dyeing her hair green), she also makes great friends and matures into a thoughtful young woman.

112.  Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone  by J.K. Rowling (ages 11+)

Ah, where the magic all began. Allegedly written in a coffee shop in Edinburgh, J.K. Rowling’s debut novel would spark off  one of the most popular series of all time  — one that transcends age, gender, and culture. You probably don’t need a synopsis, but here’s one just in case: a boy living under his aunt and uncle’s staircase is whisked away to a  school for wizards , where he discovers that he’s a celebrity. As a baby, he survived an attack from a Dark Lord, which — as he’ll soon learn — has put him in the crosshairs of some unsavory sorts, to say the least.

113.  The Hobbit  by J.R.R. Tolkien (ages 11+)

While the movie adaptation (and one pale orc in particular) might be a little frightening for children or young adult readers, Tolkien’s tale packs less Hollywood punch and more heartwarming adventure. It follows Bilbo Baggins, of course, who enjoy creature comforts in his little hobbit-hole. But everything changes when the wizard Gandalf arrives at his door one day, and invites him to join a company of thirteen dwarves on a quest to reclaim treasure — and their home — from the dangerous dragon Smaug.

114.  Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbit (ages 11+)

If you could live forever, would you? This is the decision that young Winnie Foster must ponder when she comes across a secret spring on her family’s land — a spring that is said to bring immortality to those drink from it. It’s a decision that becomes that much harder when she meets and becomes very close the Tuck family, who have all drank from the spring. Will she join them? And will she be able to keep their secret amongst pressure from those who seek to profit from the spring?

115.  Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea  by Jules Verne (ages 12+)

While many  adventure books  take place on the choppy seas, this one takes place under them. When Professor Aronnax, his servant Conseil, and a Canadian harpooner call Ned Land set out to capture a sea monster, they end up becoming captive themselves — by the very thing that they were hunting. However, they soon find out that the sea monster is actually a submarine commanded by the strange Captain Nemo. So begins a thrilling journey from the lost city of Atlantis to the South Pole!

Best children’s books to inspire young girls

Although there are plenty of girls in the books we’ve already listed, we know they tend to get overlooked in a lot of children’s books. So below, we’ve gathered 10 titles that particularly stand out for the role they play in helping girls understand all the many, marvelous things they can be.

116.  Her Body Can  by Katie Crenshaw, Ady Meschke and Li Liu (Ages 0-8)

It’s never too early for girls to learn body positivity! In this charming book from Katie Crenshaw, Her Body Can demonstrates all the many things that girls’ bodies are capable of doing. Told in a charming, poetic voice, and featuring illustrations with a wide range of ethnicities and abilities, this book is truly about embracing the beauty found in every kind of body.

117.  Do Princesses Wear Hiking Boots?  by Carmela LaVigna Coyle, Mike Gordon and Carl Gordon (Ages 3-7)

Inspired by a real inquiry from Coyle’s daughter, Do Princesses Wear Hiking Boots? is a charming book about a young girl peppering her mother with questions about the abilities of princesses. Through the mother’s patient, inspiring answers, her daughter (and yours) will soon learn that there’s nothing princesses can’t do — and that maybe, they’re not even so different than any other girl.

118.  Mommy’s Khimar  by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and Ebony Glenn (ages 4-8)

A young daughter admires her African-American Muslim mother’s collection of beautiful headscarves — and picks her favorite to play dress-up with for a day. Thompkins-Bigelow’s book (with its beautiful illustrations by Ebony Glenn) shines a light on characters that almost never appear in Western picture books, inviting readers into a world glowing with color and culture.

119. Sofia Valdez, Future Prez by Andrea Beaty and David Roberts (Ages 5-7)

Sofia is used to her abuelo walking her to school every morning. But when he hurts his ankle in the local landfill and needs to stay at home, Sofia decides to do something about the unsightly “Mount Trashmore” in their neighborhood. Surely the space would be much better as a park? Not even being dismissed by a clerk at city hall is enough to dissuade Sofia from her mission. Featuring real-life examples of the kind of action people can take to get involved in local government, Sofia Valdez, Future Prez is both inspiring and empowering.

120.  Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls  by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo (ages 7-10)

You won’t find any damsels-in-distress in this book. Funded through a Kickstarter campaign, this heavy tome from writers Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo profiles real-life female role models on every page. The heroines in this book range from Elizabeth I to Serena Williams — with their stories accompanied by gorgeous illustrations from artists from around the world.

121.  Karma Khullar's Mustache  by Kristi Wientge (ages 7-12)

Female body hair is not usually a topic most kids book will tackle, but if you’re someone like Karma Khullar, it’s something will preoccupy your waking hours. Half-Indian and half-white, young Karma is about to start sixth grade. On top of the usual stresses of starting middle school, she also has to contend with 17 new hairs that have appeared on her upper lip. Kristi Wientge’s debut is a warm and funny story that tells a valuable truth about self-acceptance.

122. Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh (ages 8-11)

11-year-old Harriet is a bit of an outsider. She dreams of being a great writer and, at the suggestion of her nanny, starts following people and writing her observations about them in a notebook. However, when her classmates discover her “spy book,” they’re not too happy to learn what Harriet thinks of them. Often cited as a milestone of American children’s literature, Harriet the Spy continues to delight young readers with its honest and relatable portrayal of a young woman (while never skimping on the exciting hijinks).

123.  Ellie, Engineer  by Jackson Pearce (Ages 8-12)

In Ellie, Engineer , titular Ellie loves to build. So when she learns that her best friend and building-buddy is finally getting the puppy she’s always wanted for her birthday, Ellie knows just what to make her: a dog house! Unfortunately, Ellie’s plans soon get so elaborate that she needs to enlist the help of two neighborhood groups who don’t always get along. Will inventive Ellie be able to get the neighbor boys and craft girls to come together and pull off the dog house of her dreams?

124. The Friendship Code by Stacia Deutsch (Ages 8-12)

Lucy is thrilled when her school finally forms a coding club. At last, a place where she can learn how to create the app she’s been dreaming of! But when she joins, she finds herself surrounded by girls she barely knows — and friendship can be a tricky algorithm to get right.Only after a series of cyber clues are left behind do Lucy and the rest of the girls come together to learn that code, and life, work better when you collaborate. Described as  The Babysitters Club  for the digital age,  The Friendship Code  is the start of a delightful new series that will surely become a mainstay of the generation.

125. Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret  by Judy Blume (ages 9+)

This acclaimed coming-of-age tale follows Margaret Simon, a preteen girl struggling with faith, friendship, and of course, her awkward adolescence. After moving from New York City to suburban Farbrook, New Jersey, Margaret begins addressing God as she ruminates on how to handle various issues in her life — and decide what kind of person she wants to be.

Looking for gift ideas for a child in your life? Check out this list of gifts for book lovers that includes a section on literary presents for kiddos!

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See You Tomorrow – fun early reader

Written by Tanya Luther Agarwal, illustrated by Partho Sengupta

Categories: Age 2-5 Years , All FKB Books , Animals , Beginner English , Early Reader , Editor's Picks , Humour , Read along video , Storyweaver-Pratham , Toddlers

A young boy tells all his animal friends “See you tomorrow,”, but will he see them all tomorrow? And if so when? A cute story with lots of repetition and imagery perfect for early readers. Sample Page from See You Tomorrow Read along with the video of See You Tomorrow, read by Kiwi Opa: Attribution: …

Lost in the Dark – a scary misadventure

Author: Sephora Mamosheledi, Illustrator: Isaac Sikhakhane

Categories: Age 2-5 Years , Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Beginner English , Children , Creative Commons , Family , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Health , Room to Read

Three girls go out to play, losing track of time, it gets dark and they can’t find their way back, will they find their parents again? A lesson about being mindful when out alone. Author: Sephora Mamosheledi, Illustrator: Isaac Sikhakhane Sample Page from Lost in the Dark This book was brought to us by Room …

The JC Team Vol 1 – from Sr. Mary Joe

Sr Mary Joe CSN

Categories: Age 10-13 years , All FKB Books , Bible Stories , Grade 4 to Grade 6 , Older Children

Sister Mary Joe tells bible stories for the modern reader, with a special appeal to Generation Z, “The JC Team” acts as a bridge between ancient scripture and contemporary understanding. The book endeavors to make these narratives relatable, ensuring that readers not only comprehend the stories but also internalize their profound messages. Through its unique …

A Trip to the Tap

Illustrated by Phumle April, Written by Sindeka Mandoyi

Categories: Age 2-5 Years , All FKB Books , BookDash , Conservation , Creative Commons , Culture , Editable Files , Grade K and Pre K , Toddlers

Oluhle is excited to go to the tap and fetch water, she will see her friends there, but what happens when she can’t find her bucket? Illustrated by Phumle April Written by Sindeka Mandoyi Designed by Nadene Kriel Sample Page from A Trip to the Tap   Download the full book by selecting one of …

Punctuation Guide for Kids

Categories: Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Children , English Language , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Non-Fiction

A short guide to all the common punctuation marks – period, exclamation mark, question mark, comma, semi-colon, ellipsis, quotation marks, apostrophe, colon. This book was brought to you by Vappingo online proofreaders. Sample Page from Punction Guide by Vappingo  

The Conical Hat

Author: Ram Babu Subedi Illustrator: Promina Shreshtha

Categories: Age 2-5 Years , All FKB Books , Beginner English , Creative Commons , Culture , Grade K and Pre K , Read along video , Room to Read , Toddlers

A short story about conical hats and all their important uses. Great for young children, learning to read, and ESL. Sample page from The Conical Hat Author: Ram Babu Subedi Illustrator: Promina Shreshtha Brought to us by Room to Read. Read along with Kiwi Opa:  

Let’s Count Legs

Author: All Children Reading Cambodia Illustrator: Measa Sovonnarea

Categories: Age 2-5 Years , All FKB Books , Animals , Beginner English , Counting , Grade K and Pre K , Insects , Read along video , Storyweaver-Pratham , Toddlers

A fun counting book featuring the numbers 2,4,6, and 8. Brought to us by The Asia Foundation and Storyweaver. Author: All Children Reading Cambodia Illustrator: Measa Sovonnarea Sample Page from Let’s Count Legs Read along with Kiwi Opa in the video of Let’s Count Legs:    

The Pottering Pig

Author: Rohit Kulkarni Illustrator: Priya Kuriyan

Categories: Age 2-5 Years , Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Animals , Beginner English , Creative Commons , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Grade K and Pre K , Humour , Read along video , Storyweaver-Pratham , Toddlers

The pottering pig causes all sorts of chaos, but did she break the potter’s pots? A cute whodunnit, when the Pottering Pig is accused of a crime she may or may not have committed. Author: Rohit Kulkarni Illustrator: Priya Kuriyan Sample Page from The Pottering Pig: Brought to us by Pratham Books. Read along with …

Three Billy Goats Gruff – CKF

Core Knowledge Foundation

Categories: Age 2-5 Years , All FKB Books , Animals , Children , Core Knowledge Foundation , Creative Commons , Editable Files , Fable , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Grade K and Pre K , moral , Toddlers

This classic tale is told with some beautiful imagery combined with some comprehension questions. Creator: Core Knowledge Foundation See more from CKF on FKB here: https://freekidsbooks.org/publisher/core-knowledge-foundation/ This book is also available in an editable version (created using Open Office): https://freekidsbooks.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Three_Billy_Goats_Gruff-Landscape-Book-CKF-FKB.odt Sample Page from Three Billy Goats Gruff:    

Snowy Owl – Haiku for older children

Gabriel Rosenstock

Categories: Age 10-13 years , Age years 13+ , All FKB Books , Gabriel Rosenstock , Grade 4 to Grade 6 , Grade 7+ , Intermediate English , Older Children , poetry , Young Adult

Gabriel Rosenstock is back with a great collection of inspiring bilingual Haiku set to thought provoking artwork and photographs, including some issues on child labour in the US. Sample Page from Snowy Owl Gabriel Rosenstock See more from Gabriel Rosenstock on FKB For more about Haiku, see here: https://vcbf.ca/event/about-haiku/. It is noted that while Japanese …

Monster’s Day Out

Danielle Bruckert

Categories: Age 2-5 Years , Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Beginner English , Children , Creative Commons , Danielle Bruckert , Free Kids Books , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Grade K and Pre K , Monsters , Toddlers

A sequel to the popular There’s a Monster this book explores, in rhyme, a day at the playground with Monster. Sample Page from Monster’s Day Out See also: There’s a Monster eBook More by the Author – Danielle Bruckert And, more books about Monster’s on FKB  

Happy Train

Author: Humayan Rashid Illustrator: Mehedi Haque

Categories: Age 2-5 Years , All FKB Books , Creative Commons , Grade K and Pre K , Intermediate English , Room to Read , Toddlers , Trains , Transport

A train travels through the country side, first she is very happy, but then getting farther and farther from home and seeing strange people and animals she becomes worried and scared. Fortunately someone comes to help. A great story about exploring emotions. Author: Humayan Rashid Illustrator: Mehedi Haque Sample Page from The Happy Train: Another …

Croak – the tale of a frog

Author: Kavitha Punniyamurthi, Illustrator: Ekta Bharti

Categories: Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Animals , Children , Creative Commons , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Humour , Intermediate English , Storyweaver-Pratham

There’s a frog in the classroom, but can Masterji see it? Or does he think the children are pulling a prank on him? Find out in this beautifully illustrated story ideal for early grades. Author: Kavitha Punniyamurthi, Illustrator: Ekta Bharti Originally published by Pratham Books on their Storyweaver Platform. Sample Page from Croak  

A Day at the Carnival

Author: Syamphay Fengsavanh, Illustrator: Nivong Sengsakoun

Categories: Age 2-5 Years , All FKB Books , Animals , Beginner English , Family , Grade K and Pre K , mouse , Room to Read , Toddlers

Three brothers, Little Mouse, Littler Mouse, and Tiny Mouse go out for a day to the carnival, they have a really great time, but safety must come first, and it’s important to look out for each other. Luckily they are keeping track! Author: Syamphay Fengsavanh, Illustrator: Nivong Sengsakoun, Translator: Alisha Berger Originally published by Room …

Supercow IV – In a Minute…

Kiwi Opa and Danielle Bruckert

Categories: Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Animals , Behaviour , Children , Creative Commons , Danielle Bruckert , FKB Make a Difference , Free Kids Books , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Intermediate English , Kiwi Opa , Read along video

A little girl and her mother walk through the park, but her mother is very distracted. Can Supercow help? Another book in the popular Supercow series. By Kiwi Opa and Danielle Bruckert Sample Page from Supercow IV – In a Minute… Other books in the Series: The Adventures of Super Cow Supercow Volume II: The …

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Home » Recommendations » 50 Nonfiction Books for Kids (Recommendations by Age)

50 Nonfiction Books for Kids (Recommendations by Age)

Nonfiction books are one of the most important sources of learning available to kids. Entertaining, beautifully illustrated books become cherished keepsakes for kids and families for years to come.

Let’s take a look at 50 fantastic titles for kids aged preschool through 13.

Kindergarten

1st Graders / 6-Year-Olds

2nd Graders / 7-Year-Olds

3rd Graders / 8-Year-Olds

9-Year-Olds

10-Year-Olds

11-Year-Olds

12-Year-Olds

13-Year-Olds

A Final Word

There you have it: Our list of 50 great books for kids aged preschool through thirteen.

Reading is one of our greatest pastimes and opens up children’s eyes to the world. Enjoy!

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50+ Literary Genres and Subgenres Every Student Should Know

So many genres, so little time to read them all…

Once kids learn to read, they unlock a very rich world of books and other writings to explore. This list of literary genres and subgenres offers definitions and examples for a wide array of writing styles. Encourage students to explore them all!

What are literary genres?

Source: The Chalkboard Unicorn

A genre (ZHAHN-ruh) is a category of literature in which the various works share certain characteristics. We often break writing into four main literary genres: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama. (Some people consider fiction and nonfiction to be one category called prose.)

Each of the literary genres has its own set of subgenres. There’s no definitive list of literary subgenres, and authors regularly invent new styles. For our list, we’ve chosen common literary genres and subgenres that students should learn to recognize. This is not a complete list by any means.

Students should also understand that many literary works fit into multiple categories, so narrowing down the literary genres and subgenres can be difficult. Still, knowing these different types can help kids learn which types of books they enjoy most and make it easier to find more of them.

Stories, poems, and plays that tell imaginary tales are called fiction. The people and events may be completely imaginary or based on real people and events but in fictionalized form.

When fiction is written as it is spoken, it’s known as prose. If the structure includes a focus on rhyme and rhythm, we call it poetry. Prose fiction can be broken down into categories by its length.

We use the term “novel” to describe a long piece of fiction, often described as “book-length.” Graphic novels use illustrations to help tell the tale, while novels in verse are very long poems that tell a story.

Examples: Moby Dick by Herman Melville, Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

Novellas are shorter than full-length novels but longer than a short story. There’s no one accepted definition of the length of a novella; they generally range from 10,000 to 50,000 words.

Examples: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

Short Story

A short story tells a complete tale with a fully developed theme, but it’s shorter than a novel or novella. They’re usually about 10,000 words or less.

Examples: “The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry, “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin

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While fiction is one of the major literary genres, it can be broken down into many categories known as subgenres. These subgenres describe the style and/or subjects of the literary work. It’s important to note that many works of fiction can fit into multiple subgenres.

Bildungsroman

Also described as a “coming-of-age” book, the bildungsroman (German for “education book”) tells the story of a protagonist from childhood to adulthood. It explores their moral and psychological growth, and is often (but not always) written in the first person.

Examples: Great Expectations by Charles Dickens, The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

Originally, this term was used to describe long poems that tell the story of a hero’s journey’s and adventures. Over the years, this term has evolved to include novels and plays that trace a person or family’s history over a long period of time.

Examples: The Odyssey by Homer, War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy

Fables are short stories that teach a specific moral. Aesop is the most famous author of fables; his tales often use animals to tell the story and state the moral at the end.

Examples: “The Tortoise and the Hare” by Aesop, Fables for Our Time by James Thurber

Fairy tales are highly fictionalized short stories that generally include magic and fantastical characters. They’re usually intended for children and often feature a protagonist who receives a “happy ending” and an antagonist (villain) who is punished in the end.

Examples: “Cinderella” by the Brothers Grimm, “The Little Mermaid” by Hans Christian Andersen

Fantasy works are set in imaginary magical worlds and include mythical creatures like dragons, witches, vampires, and more. Avoid confusing this genre with science fiction; remember that fantasy deals with the impossible, while sci-fi explores the possible. (The two are frequently combined, though, and many works have characteristics of each.)

Examples: The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling

• 20 Fantasy Books Kids Won’t Be Able to Put Down

Folktales are similar to fairy tales but originally were passed down orally rather than being written down. Therefore, they often don’t have attributed authors. Many folktales have more realistic settings than fairy tales.

Examples: Paul Bunyan stories, “Headless Horseman”

Gothic/Horror

Stories that involve ghosts, otherworldly beings, and mystical happenings that cannot be explained rationally fall into the category of gothic or horror. These novels seek to cause a sense of fear in their readers. Gothic novels were very popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, and gave rise to horror writers like Stephen King.

Examples: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë

Historical Fiction

Any fiction writing set in the past, in a real place and time, fits the definition of historical fiction. The characters can be real people or imaginary ones living through the events of that time.

Examples: The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck

• 16 Page-Turning Historical Fiction Books for Readers of All Ages

Legend/Myth

Legends and myths are ancient tales that explain early history or natural events, often using supernatural characters. Greek, Roman, and Egyptian myths remain popular today, though all cultures have their own myths and legends that have been passed down for hundreds or thousands of years. As most started as oral tradition, they rarely have attributed authors.

Examples: “Theseus and the Minotaur,” “Robin Hood,” “King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table”

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In a mystery, the characters must solve a puzzle, usually a crime of some sort. Generally, the solution isn’t revealed until the end of the story. The reader can use clues to try to solve the mystery themselves as they read.

Examples: Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie, The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin

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Roman à clef

French for “novel with a key,” a roman à clef (pronounced “roh-MAHN ah clay”) is a story about real-life people and events, thinly disguised as fiction. The characters are given fictional names, and other details may be changed slightly. The “key” is the hints the author gives the reader to help them make the connection between fact and fiction.

Examples: The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath, Animal Farm by George Orwell

Any writing that primarily focuses on the love story between two (or more) people is a romance. These stories often have happy or emotionally satisfying endings, though some end tragically instead.

Examples: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

Satire ridicules a topic or person, in an attempt to provoke the reader into rethinking their opinions on the subject. They may use irony, caricature, parody, and other literary devices, and characters and plots are often exaggerated or extreme to make the author’s point.

Examples: Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift, Catch-22 by Joseph Heller

Science Fiction

Also called sci-fi, this form of fiction speculates about potential changes to the real world based on scientific principles. Many sci-fi works focus on space travel, parallel universes, and time travel. They often take place in the future or on distant planets or worlds. Generally science fiction is considered to be stories that are possible based on our understanding of science, while fantasy works include magic or other supernatural elements. The two are often combined, and many works fit into both categories.

Examples: The Time Machine by H.G. Wells, Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes

• 16 Thrilling Sci-Fi Books for Tweens and Young Adults

Utopian/Dystopian

In utopian literature, the writer imagines a “perfect” world, while dystopian writing posits a dark and cataclysmic future or alternate present. In many cases, the imaginary world is initially presented as utopian, but as more details emerge, the dystopian elements become clear. Therefore, these literary genres are often lumped together.

Examples: The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

The opposite of fiction is nonfiction, which focuses on information and facts about real people, events, and other topics. Nonfiction can be full-length books or shorter compositions like articles or essays. It also includes “how-to” writing like cookbooks and self-help books.

There are many categories of nonfiction, usually based on the topic or subject. Here are some common nonfiction subgenres kids should learn about.

Autobiography/Biography

A biography tells the story of a person’s life, usually from birth to death. When a person writes their own biographical work, it’s called an autobiography.

Examples: The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank, The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

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An essay is a short nonfiction work on a specific topic. It’s usually a personal reflection on a subject, in which the author shares their own experiences and thoughts. Sometimes authors publish their essays together in collections as books. These collections can include essays on related topics or simply be a compilation of an author’s works.

Examples: A Room of One’s Own by Virginia Woolf, Walden by Henry David Thoreau

Expository Nonfiction

This catch-all category includes any nonfiction book that seeks to tell its readers about a specific topic. It often uses illustrations, diagrams, and quotes from original sources.

Examples: We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom, Freakonomics by Stephen J. Dubner and Steven Levitt

Any nonfiction book that focuses on real people or events of the past is a history book. Biographies and autobiographies can fall into this category, but histories usually encompass a larger group of people and their impact on contemporary events.

Examples: Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly, 1776 by David McCullough

While memoirs are similar to autobiographies, they differ in a few small ways. Memoirs don’t generally try to tell the entire story of a person’s life. Instead, they reflect on a person’s experiences during important parts of their life. They are nearly always written in the first person.

Examples: All Boys Aren’t Blue by George M. Johnson, I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai

Narrative Nonfiction

In narrative nonfiction, the author tells the tale of a real person or event in a way that feels more like a fiction story. The information is factual, but the style is entertaining and engaging.

Examples: In Cold Blood by Truman Capote, Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann

When an author writes about their travel experiences, we call it a travelogue or simply “travel writing.” Usually, the author recounts a specific trip or series of related journeys. They describe the people and places they see along the way, offering their own thoughts and opinions about these encounters.

Examples: A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson, The Mosquito Coast by Paul Theroux

Also called verse, poetry gives special importance to the use of words, imagery, and rhythm. Poems are individual works of poetry. Poems usually break down into lines and stanzas rather than sentences and paragraphs. They can be fiction or nonfiction and of any length from a few lines to an entire book.

We can break poetry into subgenres based on characteristics like rhyme scheme (or lack thereof), rhythmic patterns, subject, and more. Here are some common poetic literary genres kids should know. See their definitions and details here: 15 Types of Poetry to Teach Kids and Teens .

• Blackout Poetry
• Blank Verse
• Concrete Poetry
• Narrative Poetry
• Sonnet (Shakespearean and Petrarchan)
• 70 Must-Share Poems for Your Elementary Classroom
• 45 Terrific Poems for Middle School and High School

This literary genre includes plays, musical, operas, and operettas, written to be performed in front of an audience. Students often study plays in literature classes, reading them instead of seeing them performed. They can be short, or longer works broken into multiple scenes and acts.

While dramatic works can be nonfictional, they are usually fiction. Experts break plays and other dramatic works into multiple categories. These are the most common.

Make them laugh! Comedies are light and humorous dramatic works. The Greeks and Romans used this term for plays where the hero faces adversity and overcomes it in the end. By Shakespeare’s time, comedies involved humor, silly situations, and happy endings all around, and that’s how we usually use the term today.

Examples: The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare, The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde

A farce is a type of comedy, with exaggerated characters and improbable situations. There’s usually a lot of physical comedy, with characters taking ludicrous circumstances and happenings very seriously.

Examples: The Comedy of Errors by William Shakespeare, She Stoops to Conquer by Oliver Goldsmith

A tragedy tells the story of a protagonist with a tragic flaw, which ultimately leads to their downfall. Tragedies can also relate terrible or sorrowful events, from the point of view of one or more characters.

Examples: Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller

Tragicomedy

As the name implies, these dramatic works have elements of both comedy and tragedy. They can have sad or happy endings, or even those that are inconclusive. They often tell tragic tales, with enough humor to lighten the overall mood throughout.

Examples: The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare, Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett

History Play

Today, we use this term almost exclusively to describe Shakespeare’s plays about real historical people and events. These dramatic works were very popular during Elizabethan times.

Examples: Richard III and Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare

Problem Play

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, playwrights began writing dramatic works to draw attention to social issues or problems. Henrik Ibsen and George Bernard Shaw are well-known for this subgenre.

Examples: A Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen, Mrs. Warren’s Profession by George Bernard Shaw

We believe in encouraging kids to read all kinds of literary genres and books, including these 16 Banned Books to Read Before 12th Grade .

Plus, get all the latest teaching tips and ideas when you sign up for our free newsletters .

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What is the 'best' children's book? Kids, parents and authors on why some rise to the top

What was your favorite book as a kid?

That question makes for a surprisingly effective icebreaker. You can tell a lot about someone from the books they read as a child. Case in point: I’m a journalist, a talker, a storyteller. Many of my childhood favorites had equally yappy and imaginative characters – “Junie B. Jones” by Barbara Park, “Olivia” by Ian Falconer, “Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse” by Kevin Henkes.

The stories we read at bedtime seldom stay there . Here’s what parents, booksellers, authors and – most importantly – kids told me about what makes the best children’s book.

What makes the best children’s book?

Reading is subjective, of course. But in the quest for the “best” children’s books, parents should look out for a story that’s as entertaining to them as it is to their kids. 

Check out: USA TODAY's weekly Best-selling Booklist

“The secret to a really successful picture book is a picture book that both the parent and child can each enjoy on their own level,” says Peter Glassman, the owner of children’s bookstore “Books of Wonder” in New York City.

At a minimum, you have to make sure it’s a book you’re willing to read over and over.

“Sometimes I view children’s book authors as parenting partners where they’re like ‘This book is for the kid, but I’m going to make sure there’s a joke in here for you,'" said Tocarra Mallard , a TV writer from New York and a mother of two who makes TikToks about children’s books.

A good children’s book may teach kids about colors or numbers, but the best children's books can give them a voice to process and experience emotions.

In “The Pout-Pout Fish” by Deborah Diesen, a favorite in Mallard’s house, an act of acceptance helps turn a frown upside down. It has a silly, catchy rhyme that makes her 2-year-old laugh , but also a lesson for her 5-year-old that it's OK to feel blue sometimes. Kids aren't just kids – they're small people who live in a world that can foster anxiety, depression and other complicated feelings," Mallard says.

“For us to pretend that children (exist in) light and love and goodness at all times is denying them their humanity,” she says.

In their words: Kids tell us what makes a good book

Sometimes, finding the “best” book for your kid is just about knowing your kid. Some children want a picture-heavy book while others, like Mallard's son, who is autistic and hyperlexic, need a strong story with lots of words.

I spent the day at “Books of Wonder” earlier this spring to ask kids what makes the best children’s book.

Iago and Nico Akerman, both 11, told me the books they liked reading in school were about human history, how money works and agriculture in Latin America. Reading is a tool for the brothers to help decode the world around them.

Eight-year-old Valerie Song also loves to learn through reading. It “helps your brain grow,” she told me. 

She’s drawn to series because she’s a speed reader – and they help her feel connected to characters. Valerie was reading the last "Harry Potter" book when we spoke. Fantasy books can help you “go anywhere you want,” she said. As for everyday adventures, “I get enough of that in real life,” she reported. 

Frog and Toad are everywhere: How 50-year-old children's characters became Gen Z icons

What makes an award-winning children’s book?

A captivating story is the foundation for an award-winning book, says Shannon DeVito, the senior director of books at Barnes & Noble, which hosts an annual “Children’s and YA Book Awards.” Witty characters and dynamic illustrations aren’t powerful if there isn’t a story that inspires young readers to keep reading, she says.

But beyond that, a book should have characters or lessons that young readers can identify with. Last year’s overall winner was “ The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels ” by Beth Lincoln, a chapter book with a vibrant cast of characters. This year’s winner, “ A Royal Conundrum (The Misfits ) ” by Lisa Yee, is described by Barnes & Noble as a book for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider.

One pair of young sisters I spoke to at Books of Wonder, 3-year-old Azadeh and 5-year-old Arya Hashemi-Sohi, love “Saffron Ice Cream” by Rashin Kheiriyeh because one of the characters is named Azadeh. The sisters are half Persian, so their mom, Jeunelle Cunningham, told me they keep an eye out for books with Persian characters.

Glassman has been a bookseller for decades and says it excites him to see different childhood experiences represented in books.

“ Max and The House of Spies” by Adam Gidwitz , for example, is a story he wished he had growing up. It follows a Jewish boy living in London after leaving Germany during World War II. Max has red hair and freckles, just as Glassman did when he was growing up. 

Children’s books have gotten more diverse, both in the authors and the characters they write. A 2022 breakdown from the Cooperative Children’s Book Center noted 40% of books published in 2022 and received by the CCBC were by authors of color. On the other hand, an analysis of award-winning children’s books showed white characters are overrepresented .

“A good book that talks about modern culture, (and has a) diverse cast of characters is better than something that doesn’t,” DeVito says.

How to write a children’s book

Author Dan Gutman knows a thing or two about writing successful children’s books. His “My Weird School” books have sold over 35 million copies and he published the series’ 100th book earlier this year.

His secret sauce? Target the kids who don’t like to read. He focuses on short chapters and paragraphs, a linear, easy-to-follow storyline and, his personal favorite, “grown-ups doing dumb things.”

“I wasn’t a big reader myself, I relate really well to kids, especially boys, who don’t like to read,” Gutman says. “My goal is that that kid will open up one of my books and an hour later look up and think ‘Wow, that didn’t even feel like I was reading. I felt like I was watching a movie in my head.’”

That feeling is what Glassman looks for in a book as well. “I go to a book not to be impressed with someone’s writing – which sometimes I am – but I go to a book for the story. I love story, that is my great love,” he says.

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Do You Know the Manhattan Locations of These Children’s Books?

By J. D. Biersdorfer May 28, 2024

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A strong sense of place can deeply influence a story, and in some cases, the setting can even feel like a character itself. As shown in classic works like E.B. White’s “Stuart Little” and Kay Thompson’s “Eloise,” Manhattan is a popular location for children’s books and this week’s literary geography quiz celebrates several more stories set around the borough.

To play, just make your selection in the multiple-choice list and the correct answer will be revealed. Links to the books will be listed at the end of the quiz if you’d like to do further reading.

Hildegarde H. Swift’s 1942 book “The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Gray Bridge” is based on two real structures that still exist today. Which of Manhattan’s bridges is next to the lighthouse?

Macombs Dam Bridge

George Washington Bridge

Manhattan Bridge

59th Street Bridge/Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge

“Tar Beach,” Faith Ringgold’s 1991 picture book, follows the dreams of young Cassie Louise Lightfoot up on the roof of her family’s apartment building. They live in a historic neighborhood just north of Central Park that’s known for its music, literature and culture. Where is Cassie’s home located?

Washington Heights

West Village

Times Square

Both Louise Fitzhugh’s “Harriet the Spy” and Bernard Waber’s “Lyle the Crocodile” series of books are set in the same neighborhood, which is known for its proximity to museums and the mayor’s residence. Which neighborhood is it?

Upper West Side

Upper East Side / Yorkville

Gramercy Park

William Low’s 1997 book explores the colorful world of this Manhattan neighborhood that uses Canal Street as one of its main thoroughfares — and extends south to Pell, Doyers, Mott and other streets. The book has the same name as the neighborhood. Which area is it?

E.L. Konigsburg’s 1967 children’s novel “From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler” tells the story of two Connecticut children who run away from home and hide in one of Manhattan’s big museums, where they try to solve a mystery. Which museum did the children use as their base of operations?

The American Museum of Natural History

The Museum of Modern Art

The New-York Historical Society

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

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John S. Jacobs was a fugitive, an abolitionist — and the brother of the canonical author Harriet Jacobs. Now, his own fierce autobiography has re-emerged .

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Each week, top authors and critics join the Book Review’s podcast to talk about the latest news in the literary world. Listen here .

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How To Host Your Own Super Fun Children's Reading Party, Just Like We Did

Have storytime in English, Spanish, and Mandarin

Fomo no need try out these activities at home, plug in find partners in learning, make a photo album to capture memories, sign up for a super-special newsletter.

The communities around Southern California have been vital in how they’ve informed our early childhood coverage over the years.

Last year, though, we decided to offer something new that families could enjoy together. And that’s how we created Super-Fun Saturday — a morning of infectious fun, with bilingual readings, performances, singing, dancing, and art for children 5 and under and their families.

For our second annual Super-Fun Saturday , we partnered with more than two dozen community partners, along with several local Los Angeles authors and performers, for an event that drew more than 700 people to our Pasadena headquarters.

If you couldn’t make it this year — or if you did and just want to relive the memories — then we’ve compiled a recap here for you. Use it as inspiration to make your own Saturdays … super fun!

There are countless benefits to reading aloud with kids — from helping babies bond with their caregivers to building a toddler’s vocabulary.

The Super-Fun Saturday readers brought us stories with lessons in colors, shapes and identifying — and embracing — emotions.

We also made a point to feature multilingual readers because more than half of California kids live in a home that speaks a language other than English and there are many benefits to being bilingual.

Lulu Cheng is one of the parents who have led the charge here in L.A. to bring new perspectives to children’s books that better reflect today’s multicultural kids.

Cheng is the co-founder of local bilingual children’s book publisher Bitty Bao along with fellow mom Lacey Benard.

Throughout the story we include links to purchase these titles through MiJA Books, a local independent bookseller that partnered with LAist for Super-Fun Saturday. You can find many of these books at your local library— for free!

Since 2020 Bitty Bao has published more than a dozen board books in English, simplified and traditional Chinese.

Cheng read Dragon Boat Festival , which uses the celebration’s trappings to teach the basics of shapes.

Create your own fearsome — and colorful! — vessel at home with this printable activity .

Juan Moreno originally created El Pato y Sus Zapatos for his family— and to celebrate his own love of sneakers.

“It was something I never thought would be published,” Moreno said.

But local bilingual children’s book publisher Lil’ Libros took notice and brought the book to a larger audience in 2023.

With this craft, your little one can practice decorating and tying their own paper shoe .

We heard not one, but two stories about everyone’s favorite pouty primate — Grumpy Monkey Yuck! and the forthcoming Too Many Bugs.

Jim Panzee helps kids and adults alike make peace with life’s grumpier moments in a series that includes board books for the littlest readers and Spanish translations.

Author Suzanne Lang writes the series and husband Max creates Jim’s signature scowl— which you can turn into a wearable mask .

The Colors of Us highlights the many different shades of brown skin from peanut butter to peachy tan.

Actress Zuri Miles read this book through LAist’s partnership with Multiracial Americans of Southern California .

There were a ton of super-fun happenings throughout the event — a lot of which you can recreate on your own!

We had a little music corner with a ton of tiny instruments where kids rocked out on the drums or jammed on the key-tar.

“We want the kids to feel free to like experiment with the sounds and, the way the instruments feel and you never know, I think maybe someone is going to discover that they love music here and I think we're gonna, you know, they're gonna say, you know, I really want an axe and I really want to rock,” said music station creator Caitlin Biljan. “I just hope it captures the spirit of what a joy it is to listen to music, but also to perform for an audience.”

There were tons of arts and crafts with items you can find in your home, like:

• This coffee filter butterfly that Options for Learning had.
• You can host your own toddler dance party like Encore Music & Performing Arts.
• Or listen to tunes by LoveBug & Me.

If you want to catch up with any of the vendors and community organizations who were at Super-Fun Saturday, here’s who was there:

• Autry Museum of the American West is a museum in Griffith Park that features stories of all peoples of the American West. The Autry is also home to one of the largest collections of Native American materials in the United States. (Good timing: It hosts the American Indian Arts Festival this weekend, June 8-9).
• Bewilder is an outdoor education company that blends art, games, storytelling, and gear to inspire busy families to spend time outside. Kids climbed into the camping tent they set up onsite to make wildflower seed bombs.
• Bread Lounge graced Super-Fun Saturday with the very necessary coffee and pastries. Based in downtown L.A., they sell a wide range of fresh bread and pastries daily, including croissants, danishes, and Jerusalem bagels.
• CurlyKids , a product line for children with curly hair, was at Super-Fun Saturday braiding kids’ hair.
• The Discovery Cube is a SoCal museum with a mission to instill a passion for sciences in kids. 
• Encore Music & Performing Arts , based in San Marino and Pasadena, provides music lessons, theater classes, and summer camps.
• LoveBug & Me provides music classes to SoCal toddlers, often accompanied by LoveBug , the puppet.
• Mutiracial Americans of Southern California builds community and advocates on behalf of multiracial families. 
• Metro co-sponsored Super-Fun Saturday, offering free fruit cups from Rosita’s fruits to anyone who took public transit to the event.
• MiJa Books showcases multicultural and diverse children’s books and helps indie and self-publishers to reach a greater audience. MiJa invited all the authors who were featured at this year’s event.
• Options for Learning assists families regardless of income in locating licensed child care free of charge. If you want to keep the party going, they will also be holding a Summer Kick-off resource fair next Saturday, on June 8, with games, activities, and resources.
• Pasadena Office of the Young Child , run by the City of Pasadena, shapes Pasadena’s vision for early childhood policies and services. One resource they shared was Pasadena Public Library’s 1000 Books Before Kindergarten campaign, which shares gifts to families as they log the books they read with their children.
• Pasadena Playhouse , a theater that has been in Pasadena since 1917, taught kids how to juggle with scarves.
• Quality Start Los Angeles shared resources to support families in developing their child’s abilities to speak multiple languages as part of their initiative to support dual language learning .
• Self-Help Graphics was onsite screen printing Super-Fun Saturday bags for families. Founded in 1973, Self-Help Graphics supports Chicana/o and Latinx artists through workshops, cultural events, and youth outreach.
• Southern California Children's Museum , based in Pasadena, hosts interactive exhibits, creative experiences, and dramatic play at their facilities and collaborates with local schools and organizations.
• Vivi’s food truck was right outside, serving up Colombian eats.

It's always good to take some photos. Here are some of our favorites from Super-Fun Saturday.

Our Early Childhood newsletter features all our recent stories, plus links to things we’ve read elsewhere that we think will speak to parents. And it has event listings! The people who subscribed to the newsletter, along with our LAist members , were among the first to know about Super-Fun Saturday.

Education editor Ross Brenneman contributed to this article.

The Best Kids' Movies Coming Out in 2024

Whether you're heading to the theater or staying home ands streaming, these movies will be a hit with families.

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When we look at what's been slated so far, these are the best kids' movies coming out in 2024, listed in order of their release. As usual, we have a bunch of sequels — and even a couple of part-fours! — that return to check in with some favorite characters. There are a few exciting book adaptions, set to transform the works of classic kids' book authors like Crockett Johnson or Barbara Robinson. Most of these are coming to theaters for a fun, big-screen outing, but a few are slated to go straight to streaming services (and those are the ones that are usually announced at the last minute, so there's sure to be more in the future). Check the list, put your favorites in the calendar, and then get ready for some fun movie outings.

Release Date: January 12, 2024

Wait a minute, didn't this one come out already? Sure it did, and you can watch it on Disney+, but Disney is re-releasing into theaters three Pixar movies that went straight-to-streaming during the worst of the pandemic. If you dig the visuals of the Great Before, you can see them on the big screen.

Orion and the Dark

Release Date: February 2, 2024

Orion has a great many fears — but he's especially afraid of the dark. So you can imagine his surprise when an embodiment of the dark shows up to take him on an adventure to show him there's nothing to be afraid of. The Netflix movie is based on a book by Emma Yarlett , but the script was written by someone who knows a thing or two about writing movies about anxieties: Being John Malkovich and Adaptation writer Charlie Kaufman.

WATCH ON NETFLIX

The Tiger's Apprentice

A Chinese-American teenager named Tom unexpectedly learns that he's part of a force called The Guardians — and he must train to take on an evil entity that's bent on destroying humanity. (No pressure, right?) This Paramount+ animated original features performances by Henry Golding, Brandon Soo Hoo, Lucy Liu, Sandra Oh and Michelle Yeoh.

Peppa's Cinema Party

Release Date: February 9, 2024

Everyone's favorite pig from across the pond is headed for the big screen! The Peppa Pig cinema experience includes some never-before-seen episodes, five new songs and interactive moments that encourage kids to get up and dance or sing.

WATCH TRAILER

Turning Red

You haven't seen a giant red panda until you've seen it on the big screen. For its second Pixar re-release, Disney has chosen Turning Red , about a 13-year-old who turns into a furry creature whenever she feels extreme emotions. Now, how often does that happen to a new teenager?

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO WATCH ON DISNEY+

Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin

Release Date: February 12, 2024

Not a full feature, but Peanuts fans will delight in a brand-new special on Apple TV+. This one focuses on Franklin, who, as part of a military family, moves around a lot. When he finds letters from his grandfather, he gets advice about making friends.

WATCH ON APPLE TV+

Kung Fu Panda 4

Release Date: March 8, 2024

Jack Black (aka the voice of Bowser in 2023's The Super Mario Bros. Movie ) returns for another go-round as Po, the unlikely "Dragon Warrior." When he faces a villain that can absorb powers of enemies past, Po will be challenged like never before.

WATCH ON PRIME VIDEO WATCH ON APPLE TV

Release Date: March 22, 2024

Before there was "We Don't Talk About Bruno," there was Luca 's "Silencio, Bruno!" The third Pixar re-release of the year follows a couple of normal-seeming boys in Italy who just want to get a Vespa of their own. But one of them is hiding a big secret.

The Casagrandes Movie

This is a feature length movie based on Nickelodeon's The Casagrandes , a spin-off of The Loud House . This time, 12-year-old Ronnie Anne causes mayhem on a family vacation to Mexico when she accidentally frees a demigod.

Release Date: March 26, 2024

A teenager has a rough time moving from sunny southern California to snowy Montana — until he adopts a dog that can snowboard. This one is going direct to streaming.

Chicken for Linda!

Release Date: April 5, 2024

In French with subtitles and with a heavy emotional core, Chicken for Linda might not be for every family, but Variety said it, "gets mother-daughter bonds better than most live-action movies." In it, a daughter, grieving the death of her father, tells her mom she wants to eat his famous chicken dish. The mom promises to make it for her, but circumstances make it harder than it should be (they can't buy chicken during a strike, for example), which sends them off on a wild adventure.

Woody Woodpecker Goes to Camp

Release Date: April 12, 2024

This Netflix movie follows Woody Woodpecker as he gets kicked out of the forest and finds a new home in Camp Woo Woo. So when an inspector threatens to shut down the camp, Woody vows to save it.

The Barkers: Mind the Cats

Release Date: April 30, 2024

Kid Barker feels lonely and left out when his two older siblings are too busy to play with him. When two mischievous cats steal the family's jet pack, though, they'll need Kid's help to get it back. The movie is based on the characters from the 2011 The Barkers TV series, and will go straight to streaming

Star Wars Ep. I: The Phantom Menace

Release Date: May 3, 2024

In honor of the film's 25th anniversary, The Phantom Menace will see a theatrical re-release just in time for May the Fourth . Kids who were too little or not born in time to see Jar Jar on the big screen will finally have their shot.

Release Date: May 17, 2024

When they realize a tween named Bea has the power to see imaginary friends that have been forgotten by their children, Calvin (played by Ryan Reynolds), Blossom (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) and Blue (Steve Carrell) team up with her to see if they can find IFs new children. The Office and A Quiet Place 's John Krasinski directs.

Thelma the Unicorn

Thelma the Pony has always dreamed of stardom, and her wish is granted when she is transformed into Thelma the Unicorn — but is fame all it's cracked up to be? Alabama Shakes singer Brittany Howard provides the voice of Thelma in a Netflix film based on the book by Bad Guys author Aaron Blabey. It's also directed by a pair who knows a thing or two about lovable outsiders and/or outsize fabulousness: Jared Hess (director of Napoleon Dynamite ) and Lynn Wang (of Unikitty ).

The Garfield Movie

Release Date: May 24, 2024

We know of Garfield as a lazy, pampered, lasagna-eating cat who mostly sits around the house. In this movie, things change when Garfield is reunited with his father, a scruffy outdoor cat, and goes on an adventure. Chris Pratt is the voice of Garfield, and Samuel L. Jackson plays the father.

Robot Dreams

Release Date: May 31, 2024

This film, based on the comic by Sara Varon , is just coming off its Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature. (It lost to The Boy and the Heron .) It's about an anthropomorphic dog who, suffering from loneliness, orders a robot to be his friend. The near wordlessness and pervasive melancholy gives the impression that it's not exactly aimed at kids, but the older ones might get into it.

Too Old for Fairy Tales 2

Release Date: June 1, 2024

The sequel to Netflix's Too Old for Fairy Tales , this Polish film follows the travails of a 10-year-old esports player and the two other members on his team. This time, our hero journeys to find the father he's never met.

Inside Out 2

Release Date: June 14, 2024

Pixar returns to the life of the mind with a sequel t0 2015's Inside Out . Only this time, some new emotions are joining the crew — including Anxiety, Ennui, Embarrassment and Envy — who threaten to upend the equilibrium. Amy Poehler returns as the voice of Joy.

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} The Best Movies to Watch

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This bookstore aims to be a safe space for people of all kinds

INDIANAPOLIS — Leah Johnson knows the impact book bans can have on marginalized communities.

“When I saw my own books being banned and challenged, [I] saw so many of my friends' books being banned and challenged, I knew that we needed a space where kids always knew that they could come in and get the stories that they deserved,” Leah Johnson said.

Stories featuring Black, indigenous, and queer voices with hot button topics like race and racism.

‘So it felt urgent to me that we curated a space where those stories always had a home,” Johnson said.

That home is inside Loudmouth Books on E. 16th Street in Herron–Morton Place. It’s a space Johnson chose for its walk-ability and its neighbors, specifically Gregs Our Place.

“Gregs is a cultural queer institution in this city,” Johnson said. “So knowing that Gregs was across the street, knowing that it had been a part of the neighborhood in such an integral way for such a long time, made me feel like this was going to be a safe, welcoming environment for us to bring a bookstore that does the kind of work that we do.”

Work that includes maintaining access to stories that affirm the existence of people of all kinds.

“We're getting kids who are queer, kids of color, [kids] who have various marginal identities, and knowing that every time they come in here, there's no doubt about whether or not they're going to be treated with care and also met with stories that reflect their existence. I know how crucial that is, because I know how important it was to me,” Johnson said.

Johnson says one of the great joys of the shop’s location is its proximity to Herron High School.

“Watching the kids from Herron come in here after school and gather with their friends and flip through a graphic novel and sit on the beanbags where there is no expectation that they buy anything,” Johnson said. “This is a safe space for them to be and speak.

Loudmouth is one of a number of independent bookstores that have recently opened around Indianapolis. But Johnson doesn’t see those shops as competition, but rather a community.

“For me, it feels really clear that everybody is serving a different pocket of the community,” Johnson said. “If all of us are focused on how we can uplift the communities that we are there to support, then everybody wins.”

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Aleteia 2024 Summer Book List: Books for Kids

John Touhey | Aleteia

Summer is a time for relaxation and enjoyment — and not only out on the baseball field or at the beach, but also inside the pages of a book. Aleteia’s recommended summer reads for 2024 will take your children to exotic places and distant times, while also exploring the values of curiosity, courage, and kindness.

We also have book lists for adults and teens , so your entire family can enjoy a booktastic summer!  

Summer book recommendations for kids

1 jérôme lejeune: the saintly geneticist.

Word on Fire, 2024.

Jérôme Lejeune tells the story of a brilliant Catholic scientist who was also an advocate of every person’s right to life, and who was recently named venerable by Pope Francis. Written by Ana Braga-Henebry and beautifully illustrated by Anita Barghigiani, the book is perfect for the budding young scientist in your family.

2 heart of a shepherd

Yearling, 2010.

When Brother’s dad is sent to war, he is suddenly tasked with helping his grandparents keep their family ranch running. Rosanne Parry’s Heart of a Shepherd is a coming-of-age story in which a boy overcomes adversity to find his true calling.

3 the wingfeather saga AND zita the spacegirl

First Second, 2018 & WaterBrook, 2024.

Aleteia contributor Caitlin Bootsma touts Andrew Peterson’s Wingfeather Saga books as “perfect for fans of Narnia.” She also highly recommends the Zita the Spacegirl series of graphic novels by Ben Hatke, saying that the stories and illustrations are “wonderful.” Kids with active imaginations will surely delight in both series.

4 The Loupio Series

Ignatius/Magnificat, 2021.

An adventurous boy follows in the footsteps of Francis of Assisi, accompanied by his friend “Brother Wolf” on a journey through medieval Italy. Jean-François Kieffer’s Loupio series of books will remind you of TinTin thanks to their action-packed stories and captivating illustrations. Loupio is a relatable hero who dreams big, makes mistakes, but truly desires to be more like Jesus.

5 The World of Anna Hibiscus

Walker Books, 2021.

For younger readers, Aleteia’s Tess Barber recommends Atinuke’s The World of Anna Hibiscus : “These books are about a little girl who lives in modern-day Africa in one big house with her entire extended family. My daughters (ages 5 and 7) have just fallen in love with this series, and it has such positive values, focused on appreciation for family, generosity, thoughtfulness, obedience, courage, and so many other great messages. I can’t believe I hadn’t heard of it until recently!”

6 The Burgess Bird Book AND Animal Book

The final books on our list also came via Tess Barber — but this time from her children. Apparently, they love, love, love the Burgess Bird Book for Children and the Burgess Animal Book for Children . They will explain why in an article coming soon.

Check back in the coming days for articles about each of the books and book series on our list. Many will include author interviews, additional resources to explore with your kids, or further reading recommendations.

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Help us continue to bring the Gospel to people everywhere through uplifting Catholic news, stories, spirituality, and more.

"Better Your Knowledge on Kinds of Nouns & Pronouns ‪"‬

Publisher description.

Expand your understanding of nouns and pronouns with "Better Your Knowledge on Kinds of Nouns & Pronouns" by Arvind Shah. Whether you're a student, a language enthusiast, or someone looking to deepen your knowledge of grammar, this comprehensive guide is your key to mastering the intricacies of these essential parts of speech. As you delve into the various kinds of nouns and pronouns, you'll uncover the nuances that distinguish them and learn how to use them effectively in your writing and communication. But amidst the exploration of grammar, a question arises: What makes nouns and pronouns so vital to our language, and how can a deeper understanding of them enhance your communication skills? Experience the transformative impact of Shah's expertise as he breaks down complex grammar concepts into digestible pieces. Each chapter is filled with clear explanations, helpful examples, and practical exercises designed to reinforce your understanding of nouns and pronouns. But beyond the technicalities lies a deeper truth: Nouns and pronouns form the backbone of our language, enabling us to express ourselves with clarity and precision. Prepare to broaden your linguistic horizons with "Better Your Knowledge on Kinds of Nouns & Pronouns." Whether you're studying for exams, honing your writing skills, or simply seeking to deepen your knowledge of grammar, Shah's guide provides the tools and resources you need to succeed. Immerse yourself in the richness of language as you explore the different types of nouns and pronouns and learn how to use them effectively in various contexts. Through Shah's expert guidance, you'll gain the confidence and proficiency to communicate with clarity and accuracy. Are you ready to take your grammar skills to the next level? Dive into "Better Your Knowledge on Kinds of Nouns & Pronouns" now and embark on a journey of linguistic discovery with Arvind Shah as your trusted mentor. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your understanding of grammar. Order your copy today and unlock the secrets to mastering nouns and pronouns in your writing and communication. ```

More Books by Arvind Shah

Why Songstress and Philanthropist Dolly Parton Spent Over $500 Million On Children's Books

Dolly Parton , the iconic country singer famous for her timeless hits like Jolene and 9 to 5 , has proven time and again that her heart is as big as her talent. With a net worth of $650 million, the iconic artist has dedicated herself to philanthropy, especially through her Imagination Library initiative, where she has spent over $500 million to provide books for kids, with a sentiment rooted in her personal history. Parton’s Imagination Library, launched under the umbrella of the Dollywood Foundation in 1995, is an embodiment of her commitment to improving education. The program mails free books to enrolled children every month for the first five years of their lives. As of 2023, over 226 million books have been donated to children in five countries, costing Parton more than $500 million.

The inspiration behind Parton’s philanthropy is deeply personal, according to NPR . "This actually started because my father could not read and write, and I saw how crippling that could be, my dad was a very smart man. And I often wondered what he could have done had he been able to read and write. So that is the inspiration." Her father’s inability fueled her passion for literacy, pushing her to create an initiative that focuses on the crucial need. She shared more about her modest approach, stating, "I don’t do it for attention. But look! I’m getting a lot of attention by doing it, I get paid more attention than maybe some others that are doing more than me. I just give from my heart, I never know what I’m going to do or why I’m gonna do it. I just see a need and if I can fill it, then I will."

As per TheThings , despite her efforts to keep a low profile, Parton’s generosity has not gone unappreciated. In 2022, she was honored with the prestigious Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy, recognizing her important contributions to society through initiatives like the Imagination Library. Beyond the Imagination Library, Parton’s philanthropic endeavor expands to several areas. Her company , Dollywood Co., supports education by facilitating full coverage of tuition, fees, and books for employees seeking further education.

Parton’s commitment to children’s well-being goes beyond literature. She donated $1 million to the Vanderbilt University Medical Center for pediatric infectious disease research. In her own words, "I love all children. No child should ever have to suffer, and I’m willing to do my part to try and keep as many of them as I can as healthy and safe as possible." She also revealed that she does not regret her decision not to have kids: "When you’re a young couple, you think you’re going to have kids, but it just wasn’t one of those burning things for me, I had my career and my music, and I was traveling. If I’d had kids, I’d have stayed home with them, I’m sure, and worried myself to death about them, with everything that’s going on, I’d hate to be bringing a child into this world right now."

Editor's note : This article was originally published on January 5, 2024. It has since been updated.