15 classic children's books to add to your library
Getting little kids to read can be a challenge sometimes, but that's only if you've picked the wrong book! The world of children's literature is replete with incredible stories that range from the totally fantastical to simply silly, and there's so much to explore.
Flip through the gallery below for a guide to 15 essential children's books that should be in your library, from Dr. Seuss classics to introductory chapter books and so much more.
"Goodnight, Moon" by Margaret Wise Brown
Beloved for generations, this classic children's book by Margaret Wise Brown is the perfect way to wind down the night with your little one as you prepare to tuck them into bed.
"The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle
Lushly illustrated and published in 1969, writer and illustrator Eric Carle's "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" is an essential addition to any child's library. It's also a fun way to teach kids about the life span of a beautiful butterfly.
"Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?," by Bill Martin Jr.
This collaboration between Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle produced one of the most fun ways to learn about new animals and how to identify them. Cheery and rhythmic, this book has stood the test of time since its release in 1967.
"Where The Wild Things Are" by Maurice Sendak
Described by many as one of the best-illustrated books for children ever written, "Where The Wild Things Are" remains a perennial favorite for adventurous little ones. After you've finished the book, consider watching the 2009 film directed by Spike Jonze inspired by the film. (Note: it might be a bit scary for really young kids.)
"Green Eggs and Ham," by Dr. Seuss
Even though its title dish doesn't exactly seem appetizing, kids of multiple generations have eaten "Green Eggs and Ham" right up for decades. More than 8 million copies of the book have sold since its release, and many of those copies have grown into cherished heirlooms for kids who received them.
"Amelia Bedelia," by Peggy Parish
A little bit kooky, and a little bit literal, Amelia Bedelia isn't your average housekeeper. The original book has since spawned tons of sequels, which is great for young voracious readers who will blow through this Peggy Parish classic quickly.
'Llama Llama Red Pajama," by Ann Dewdney
First published in 2005, Ann Dewdney's bedtime classic presents a familiar scenario for pretty much any parent of small children: trying to get your kids tucked into bed when they really, really don't want to.
"Harold and the Purple Crayon" by Crockett Johnson
The young artists — or just doodlers — in your family will appreciate this legendary book by Crockett Johnson, an ode to the kind of boundless creativity that only a child can possess.
"Dream Big, Little One" by Vashti Harrison
Encourage your kids to "dream big" with this sweet Vashti Harrison storybook, an inspirational book that highlights the accomplishments of powerful Black women like Maya Angelou, Ella Fitzgerald, and NASA pioneer Katherine Johnson.
"The Snowy Day," by Ezra Jack Keats
First published in 1976, this Ezra Jack Keats classic is perfect for a day when you're snowed in inside — or pining for the winter in the depths of summer. It's also a fun read for little kids, who will definitely appreciate Keats's artistic style.
"Madeline," by Ludwig Bemelmans
This classic French children's book by Ludwig Bemelmans has been adapted into multiple films and stories, and that has everything to do with the charm of its spūnky, adventurous title character.
"Charlotte's Web" by E.B. White
This inspiring tale of a special pig and his barnyard friends, written by E.B. White, is a perfect introduction to chapter books for slightly older kids, or just for reading aloud at storytime. Don't forget to give Wilbur, Charlotte, and all the rest of the critters their own distinct voices!
"Ralph S. Mouse," by Beverly Cleary
Part of a Beverly Cleary series centered around Ralph the mouse and his antics — there are motorcycles involved — "Ralph S. Mouse" follows Ralph as he heads off to school for the first time. It's a great read for little ones who are intimidated about heading to school for the first time.
"The Giving Tree," by Shel Silverstein
This sweet, somewhat sad meditation on love from Shel Silverstein is a classic for a reason. It serves as an excellent springboard for teaching children about how to love — and be loved — without losing yourself.
"Bridge to Terabithia," by Katherine Paterson
Introduce your kids to the wide and wonderful world of fantasy books with this 1977 Katherine Paterson classic, in which two kids use their imaginations to dream up a whole new world that manifests itself in an abandoned treehouse. There's also a great movie to watch and compare with the book once the reading's done.
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