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You know the nostalgia you get when reading a book from your childhood again? Those classic stories and colorful illustrations are hard to forget. Inspiring your children to read is one of the best ways to ensure their love of learning. Having a story that will both grip them – and you – is key. Here are 50 great children’s books for consideration. Because, one of the best things you can do for children is read to them, then read with them and, finally, provide them with books that they can read on their own. We’ve collected some classics, a number by celebrity writers, as well as our favorite bedtime stories, for you to add to your children’s growing libraries. Take some time out of your day to share these fun and motivating tales with your children: settle little ones to sleep, inspire developing minds, teach lessons and have fun! With a little bit of time, enthusiasm and a few of these fantastic books in your library, reading can soon become second nature to your child. Celebrity Writers [AGES 4-6] “Is There Really a Human Race?” (Written by Jamie Lee Curtis, illustrated by Laura Cornell; HarperCollins, 2006) A humorous examination on approaching life as a competition. With whimsy and heart (and witty illustrations), Curtis conveys the message about relishing the journey of life and making positive choices. [AGES 3-5] “When I Grow Up” (Written by Tina Louise, illustrated by Oliver Corwin; Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2007) Bright, bold illustrations will engage young readers as Louise’s story uses the inventiveness of insects and animals to inspire children about all the possibilities their lives hold. [AGES 4-8] “Out of the Ballpark” (Written by Alex Rodriguez, illustrated by Frank Morrison; HarperCollins Children’s Books, 2007) Baseball superstar Alex Rodriguez tells a story about Little Alex, a determined boy who wants nothing more than to be a great player. Undeterred by early struggles, he dedicates himself to improving his game by getting up in the early morning to practice before school every day. Read-To/Early Reader Classics [AGES 4-8] “Johnny Appleseed” (Written by Rosemary and Stephen Vincent Benet, illustrated by S.D. Schindler; Simon & Schuster, 2001) This poetic retelling of the legendary Johnny Appleseed was originally included in a 1933 anthology. The tale is based on a real-life man who roamed the Midwest planting apple trees. [AGES 3-6] “Where the Wild Things Are” (Written and illustrated by Maurice Sendak; Red Fox, 2000) A mischievous boy named Max is sent to his room for misbehaving – and the incredible world that he imagines emerges. Max is crowned king of all wild things, until he smells good things to eat from back home. [AGES 4-8] “The Giving Tree” (Written and illustrated by Shel Silverstein; HarperCollins, 1964) “Once there was a tree…and she loved a little boy.” So starts this sweet, sad story about a tree that gives all it has to a beloved boy as he grows up and has increased demands. In the end, the tree is a bare stump that provides the boy, now an old man, a resting spot. “And the tree was happy.” This moral tale of love and sacrifice provides a powerful lesson in giving. [AGES 2-6] “Baby Bear, Baby Bear, What Do You See?” (Written by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle; Henry Holt and Company Books, 2007) A final collaboration between the two authors upon the 40th anniversary of their first Bear Book, this gently rhyming text takes on the story of a baby bear in search of his mama bear. The baby bear sees all the animals of the forest during his quest. [AGES 2-8] “Henry, the Happy Hydrant” (Written and illustrated by Guy Carrozzo Jr.; Anthonick Publishing, 2006, to order, lulu.com) Henry the Hydrant beautifully relates the feelings of a child who is ignored and teased, and how he finds meaning in life by being ready to help when help is needed. Author Guy Carrozzo Jr., the former mayor of Fountain Valley, created this simple, but sweet story, with elegant illustrations. This hardcover book is a must-have for families in search of a story with deeper meaning. [Ages 2-7] “The Three Little Pigs” (Retold by Patricia Seibert; Brighter Child, 2001) Renowned author Patricia Seibert retells one of the oldest children’s stories of them all, “The Three Little Pigs.” Each little pig is confident that his house is the strongest, but who will survive the big, bad wolf? [AGES 2-5] “The Little Engine That Could” (Written by Watty Piper, illustrated by George Hauman; Platt & Munk Publishers, 2002) Originally published in 1930, this unparalleled story of optimism and persistence is as relevant and powerful today as when it was first told. Ask anyone if they remember the story and they’re sure to reply, “I-think-I-can, I-think-I-can.” [AGES 4-7] “Papa, Do You Love Me?” (Written by Barbara M. Joose, illustrated by Barbara Lavallee; Chronicle Books, 2005) A Masai boy and his father are keeping watch over their cattle when the boy asks, “Papa, do you love me?” This story captures the universal love between a father and his child, as the father repeatedly reassures his son of his love. [AGES 2-5] “If You See a Kitten” (Written and illustrated by John Butler; Peachtree Publishers, 2003) What do you do when you see a kitten, a slithery snake, a scary spider, or a pudgy pig? This charming book will tell you, delighting children with its message and wonderful illustrations. [AGES 3-8] “The Complete Tales of Winnie-the-Pooh” (Written by A. A. Milne; Dutton Juvenile, 1999) For more than 70 years, the happy story of Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends of the Hundred Acre Wood has been pleasing audiences everywhere. Pooh’s status as a “Bear of Very Little Brain” belies his profound wisdom of the ways of the world. In this book, “Winnie-the-Pooh” and its sequel “The House at Pooh Corner,” are brought together in a beautiful, complete and unabridged edition. [AGES 4-8] “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs” (Written by Judi Barrett, illustrated by Ron Barrett; Aladdin, 2004) An imaginative grandfather tells his grandchildren the story of the town of Chewandswallow, where it rains soup and juice, snows mashed potatoes and blows storms of hamburgers. Life is delectable in this town, until the weather takes a turn for the worse. In this story, the grandchildren discover that fantasy is fun, but real life prevails. [AGES 5-8] “Strega Nona” (Written and illustrated by Tomie dePaolo; Little Simon, 1997) “In a town in Calabria, a long time ago, there lived an old lady called Strega Nona, which meant ‘Grandma Witch.’” So begins this original version of the tale of an old, Italian woman with a magic touch. This Caldecott-honored book is one of many authored by the talented dePaolo. [AGES 4-8] “Harold and the Purple Crayon” (Written by Crockett Johnson; Pocket, 2001) Armed only with an oversized purple crayon, Harold draws himself a dream world. He sketches a boat when he finds himself deep in water, a picnic when he gets hungry, and landmarks to ensure he won’t get lost along the way. For more than 50 years, this journey has been inspiring the imaginations of young readers everywhere. [AGES 3-7] “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom” (Written by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault, illustrated by Lois Ehlert; Little Simon, 2006) This rhythmic tale relates a story about the 26 letters of the alphabet personified. “A told b, and b told c, ‘I’ll meet you at the top of the coconut tree,’” until all the letters endeavor to gather at the top of the tree, ending in a heap of letters on the ground. [AGES 5-9] “Eloise” (Written by Kay Thompson, illustrated by Hilary Knight; Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2007) Eloise, the eccentric 6-year-old namesake of this story, is a rebellious girl who spends her days in New York’s Plaza Hotel acting mischievous. Her quirky character gets away with anything – a true child’s dream. Bedtime Stories [AGES 2-6] “Goodnight Moon” (Written by Margaret Wise Brown, illustrated by Clement Hurd; HarperCollins Children’s Books, 2005) This is a 60th anniversary reprinting of the children’s literature classic that has put generations of sleepy listeners and readers to bed. Its simple rhyme and illustrations make it the perfect bedtime story. [AGES 1-4] “I’ll See You in the Morning” (Written by Mike Jolley, illustrated by Mique Mariuchi, Chronicle Books, 2005) An ideal book to snuggle up with, as a parent reassures her child in the story: “Don’t be afraid of darkness; don’t be afraid, my sweet. The night is just a blanket that helps the Earth to sleep.” The gentle rhyming text and bright acrylic illustrations will help soothe little ones to sleep. [AGES 5-9] “The Napping House” (Written by Audrey Wood, illustrated by Don Wood; Red Wagon Books, 2004) Rhythmic, repetitive text and whimsical illustrations make this story of the napping house, “where everyone is sleeping,” an appealing bedtime story for all children. Audrey and Don Wood create their own style of humor to tell the story of a household that congregates on Granny’s bed, piling up in a jumble of critters and family. [AGES 3-8] “A Kitten Called Midnight” (Written by Martin Waddell, illustrated by Christian Birmingham; Candlewick Press, 2001) One of the best bedtime books we’ve discovered. This is the story of a little white kitten, all alone on a cold night on the sea, and how little Charlotte brings her home, giving her life. [AGES 2-6] “Sleepy Me” (Written by Marni McGee, illustrated by Sam Williams; Simon & Schuster) This is a loving tale about a household growing sleepy as a young child prepares for bed. The cat grows sleepy, the teddy bear grows sleepy, mom and dad grow sleepy – all with rhyming text. Nursery Rhymes [Ages 1-5] “Mother Goose’s Storytime Nursery Rhymes” (Written and illustrated by Axel Scheffler; Arthur A. Levine Books, 2007) A whimsical retelling of ageless nursery rhymes, made contemporary by Scheffler’s witty, almost satirical illustrations. [Ages 3-7] “Mary Engelbreit’s Mother Goose” (Illustrated by Mary Engelbreit; HarperCollins, 2005) The classic tales of Mother Goose are given a new look in prolific illustrator Mary Engelbreit’s colorful compilation, including the stories of Humpty Dumpty, Jack and Jill, Little Bo-Peep, and more. Engelbreit’s pictures are detailed and fun, with adorable children of all shapes, sizes and ethnicities represented. Holiday Classics [AGES 7 AND UP] “A Christmas Memory” (Written by Truman Capote, illustrated by Beth Peck; a CD narrated by Celeste Holm included in this version; Alfred A. Knopf, 1989) A retelling of one of Capote’s childhood memories about his eccentric cousin and their cherished Christmas ritual – baking fruitcakes together. [AGES 5-8] “The Polar Express” (Written/illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg; Houghton Mifflin, 1985) A magical train ride on Christmas Eve takes a boy to the North Pole to receive a special gift from Santa. This modern classic won numerous awards, including the Caldecott Medal and the New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book of the Year – 1986. [AGES 7-12] “A Cowboy Christmas: The Miracle at Long Pine Ridge” (Written by Audrey Wood, illustrated by Robert Florczak; Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2001) One of the most gripping among non-religious holiday stories. Set in the West, Evan is a boy who lives with his widowed mother; both are looked after by cowboy friend Cully. But it’s Christmas Eve, a blizzard is starting….and Cully still hasn’t arrived. Fables [AGES 4-7] “Hansel and Gretel” (Illustrated by Maria Mantovani and Renzo Barsotti; Mercury Books, 2005) One of a series of traditional fairy tales illustrated by husband and wife Mantovani and Barsotti, who beautifully depict this tale of loss and love. [AGES 4 AND UP] “Aesop’s Fables” (Compiled by Russell Ash and Bernard Higton; Chronicle Books LLC, 1990) This compilation brings together more than 50 of Aesop’s fables from “The Hare and the Tortoise” to the “Boy who Cried Wolf.” Stories range from the famous to the obscure and include a range of illustrations. Civil Rights [AGES 6 AND UP] “Mendez vs. Westminster: For All the Children” (Written by Michael Matsuda and Sandra Robbie, illustrated by Eleazar Martinez; Blue State Press, 2006) Subtitled, “The Story of an American Civil Rights Victory,” this book tells the tale “of many heroes, all of them regular people who did what they had to do so that children of all colors could go to school together.” Co-written by Orange County documentary filmmaker Sandra Robbie. Contemporary [AGES 7 AND UP] “A Mother’s Wish” (Written by Kathy-Jo Wargin, illustrated by Irena Roman; HarperCollins, 2006) This beautiful, contemporary classic depicts the love between a mother and daughter in a shared wish. Gorgeous, light-filled watercolor illustrations by Irena Roman add to the magic of the story. Dr. Seuss [Ages 5 and up] “Green Eggs and Ham Cookbook” (Written by Georgeanne Brennan, photography by Frankie Frankeny, illustrated by Dr. Seuss; Random House Children’s Books, 2006) Award-winning cookbook author and Dr. Seuss enthusiast Georgeanne Brennan compiles a book of recipes inspired by Dr. Seuss characters. Choose from Silly Sammy Slick’s Sodas to Noodle-Eating-Poodle Noodles to – of course – the notorious Green Eggs and Ham. The Dr. Seuss books, including “The Cat in the Hat” and “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” are also wonderfully illustrated and fun to recite to children. In an atmosphere of fun with quirky characters and scenes, deeper messages are presented that children will easily be able to grasp and enjoy. Early Ethical Learning [AGES 8 AND UP] “Pilgrim’s Progress” (Written by John Bunyan; Barbour Publications, Inc., 1992) Considered one of the great literary classics, this allegory was first published in 1876 and has been translated into more than 100 languages. Historical Classic [AGES 9-12] “Little House in the Big Woods” (Written by Laura Ingalls Wilder, illustrated by Garth Williams; HarperCollins, 2004) In this latest edition of the timeless book, Garth Williams’ interior art is in full, vibrant color. The front cover is also redesigned, giving young readers their first glimpse of Laura, a young girl growing up in a log cabin in Wisconsin with her ma, pa and two sisters. This is the first of the enduring “Little House” series that has taught generations about life on the plains and prairies, and in the woods and towns of the American frontier. Sports [AGES 7-14] “Shoeless Joe & Black Betsy” (Written by Phil Bildner, illustrated by C.F. Payne; Simon & Schuster, 2002) The legendary, real-life Shoeless Joe Jackson, a great baseball player who was ultimately banned from the game, is the hero in this fictionalized story. His quest for greatness leads him to a fantastic bat, Black Betsy. For Boys Only [AGES 8-14] “The Dangerous Book for Boys” (By Conn and Hal Iggulden; Collins, 2007) Playing video games won’t make a man out of any boy, but this best-selling book just might. Our editorial team watched as a 9-year-old went page by page, stopping on such rich content as “Making a Bow and Arrow” and “Skipping Stones.” This book has more than a hundred ideas, such as studying the constellations and making a “water bomb.” Young Readers/Read-To [AGES 6 AND UP] “Mary Poppins” and “Mary Poppins Comes Back” (Written by P.L. Travers, illustrated by Mary Shepard; Harcourt Books, 2007) This is a recently released edition of the stories first published in 1934 and 1935. Illustrations by Mary Shepard breathe new life into the tales that were the inspiration of the classic Disney film and Broadway musical. [AGES 6-12] “Little Fur: A Fox Called Sorrow” (Written by Isobelle Carmody; Random House Children’s Books, 2006) This sequel to “Little Fur: The Legend Begins” continues the adventures of the half-elf, half-troll girl who heals animals in a magical grove in the heart of a big city. Acclaimed Australian author Carmody combines fantasy and adventure with environmental themes in this modern fairy tale. [AGES 6-8] “Anatole” (Written by Eve Titus, illustrated by Paul Galdone; Alfred A. Knopf, 2006) This 50th anniversary version of a Caldecott Honor-winning book is as adorable as ever. Originally published in hardcover in 1969, this is the first of many books about the Parisian mouse “Magnifique,” who secretly critiques cheese at the Duvall Cheese factory in an effort to feed his family honestly. Before long, Duvall is making the best cheese in Paris, based on Anatole’s advice. [AGES 9 AND UP] “Robinson Crusoe” (Written by Daniel Defoe; J.W. Edwards, Inc., 2006) First published in 1719, this is a fictional autobiography of an English castaway who spends 28 years on a remote island before being rescued. While there, he encounters grand adventure. [AGES 4-9] “Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel” (Written and illustrated by Virginia Lee Burton; Houghton Mifflin, 1939) Mike Mulligan and his trusty steam shovel “Mary Anne” dig canals and ditches, build roads, clear the way for the railroads and contribute to the progress of the country until bigger, faster, more effective steam shovels come on the horizon. Mike and Mary Anne must prove their drive and worth in this inspirational classic. [AGES 8 AND UP] “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” (Written by J.K. Rowling, illustrated by Mary GranPré; Arthur A. Levine Books, 2003) The first book in the blockbuster series about the famous boy wizard as he starts his schooling at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and is propelled down a dark path toward his date with destiny. The following titles are: “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire,” “Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix,” “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince,” and the recently released, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.” [AGES 7 AND UP] “The Little Princess” (Written by Frances Hodgson Burnett; Aladdin Paperbacks, 2001) This personal story, about a girl who finds herself at the mercy of a cruel headmistress when her father dies, is an inspiration. A terrific family movie was made in 1995. [AGES 11 AND UP] “The Diary of a Young Girl” (Written by Anne Frank; Bantam, 1993) Since its publication in 1947, old and young readers from around the world have celebrated the touching story of Anne Frank. The story is most of what was Frank’s actual diary, which tells the intimate story of a Jewish girl growing up in Amsterdam in the midst of German occupation during World War II. Beautiful and eye-opening, this story teaches a lesson to every reader who encounters it, reminding each of the fragility of life. [AGES 3-7] “Thomas the Tank Engine Story Collection” (Written by Rev. W. Awdry, illustrated by C. Reginald Dalby and John Kenney; Random House, 2005) The child who loves trains will adore this volume of Thomas the Tank Engine stories. Written more than 60 years ago by a father for his son, the trains in the story were inspired by real-life steam engines, to which the author assigned names and personalities. The 14 stories of this collection are charming and timeless. [AGES 4-10] “Charlotte’s Web” (Written by E.B. White; HarperTrophy, 2004, pictured, 1980 edition) This touching story of classic friendship and hardship tells the tale of a bashful pig named Wilbur who befriends a spider named Charlotte. Charlotte endeavors to save Wilbur from his predestined end as a farm pig, convincing the farmer and surrounding community that Wilbur is an extraordinary animal who should be saved. E. B. White reminds us that miracles can be found even in the simplest of things. [AGES 9-13] “Anne of Green Gables” (Written by L.M. Montgomery; Signet Classics, 2003) “No house that Anne’s in will ever be dull,” says Marilla Cuthbert, who adopts the orphan Anne, a spunky and irrepressible heroine who has fascinated many a young reader. Anne seeks adventure in her new home of Green Gables on the beautiful Prince Edward Island. This is just the first of a series of heartwarming tales about the lovable young girl, Anne, as she grows up to be a passionate and independent young woman in the early 20th century. [AGES 9-11] “Nancy Drew” / ”Hardy Boys” (“Nancy Drew” Starter Set written by Carolyn Keene; Grosset & Dunlap, 1998; “Hardy Boys” Starter Set written by Frank W. Dixon; Grosset & Dunlap, 1998) What parent hasn’t read a “Nancy Drew” or “Hardy Boys” novel in his or her youth? These classic mystery novels about amateur detectives Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys will make any fifth-grader want to read more. Originally written in the 1930s, these stories are timeless and intriguing, providing just the right amount of suspense and encouraging readers to try to solve the mystery for themselves before reaching the final pages. Our No. 1 Favorite: [Ages 2-8] “Love You Forever” (Written by Robert N. Munsch, illustrated by Sheila McGraw; Firefly Books, 1986) A mother holds her newborn son and looks at him lovingly. Softly she sings, “I’ll love you forever/I’ll like you for always/As long as I’m living/My baby you’ll be…” This begins the poignant classic that has sold more than 15 million copies in English alone. It has also been reprinted in Spanish and French. Firefly Books offers many different editions and sizes in hardback and paperback, with all manners of binding and packaging. This list was compiled by Senior Writer Susan Belknapp, intern Maggie Beidelman, and Executive Editor Craig Reem. Living with greatness Author of ‘100 Best Books for Children’ explains her task [1] What makes a great children’s book? A compelling story line, characters that children want to hang out with or...visit again. Almost always, it has a more serious theme underneath it. And then it has that intangible quality – those books you remember long after you’ve read them. [2] In the era of new media, do books like “Mike Mulligan and his Steam Shovel” still resonate? I was at a park recently where they were celebrating Mike Mulligan’s anniversary. Thousands of kids were playing on new-fangled steam shovels. Everyone was reading, and parents were saying it’s a great story. [3] Are experiences portrayed in books like “To Kill a Mockingbird” important for kids and teens? I wrote the book “500 Great Books for Teens” and interviewed teens about their 10 favorite books...and “To Kill a Mockingbird” showed up on that list as much as any other title. It’s still being passionately read. [4] How would you categorize stages of a young reader? We divide them in ages. One group we call board books or preschool books, where parents sit with the child and look through them. Picture books can be read by parent and child. With “I can read” books, the child is an independent reader. And chapter books are a little more sophisticated in content. [5] What 5 children’s books would you want if you were stranded on an island with 100 children under age 9? Even 100 books were painful to choose! You’re not going to get me to throw 95 more out of my chest! My personal favorite children’s book is Natalie Babbitt’s “Tuck Everlasting.” Anita Silvey just published her second book, “500 Great Books For Teens.” She was interviewed by Editorial Assistant Ashley Elliot. OC Children’s Book Festival The fourth annual Orange County Children’s Book Festival returns Sept. 29-30 to Orange Coast College. Whether it’s authors reading excerpts or characters greeting attendees, a reader’s love for books can be indulged upon at the festival. With attendance expected to jump from 18,000 to 25-30,000 as the festival goes to 2 days from 1, there’s no surprise this free-admission book celebration has gained national recognition. “It’s already considered the largest children’s book festival in the U.S.,” says Barry Ackerman, who co-founded the festival with Pat Burns in 2003. Readers and authors will unite and share the same passion for literature, whether it’s dragon tales or superheroes. Not only will you have the opportunity to dabble in new books, but you’ll hear your favorite stories read aloud – and you can even meet the authors. Familiar with the science-fiction book “The Strand Prophecy”? The authors, 12-year-old twins Brittany Winner and Brianna Winner, and their father Jeff Winner, will be on the Superhero Stage. Award-winning children’s book author, illustrator and singer/songwriter Barney Saltzberg will take a look into his new books “Star of the Week,” “Crazy Hair Day” and a few more. Another author scheduled to attend is Michael Buckley of “The Sisters Grimm.” With Target as the new sponsor, an increase in attendance is expected. Other sponsors include OC Family Magazine, KOCE-TV, Radio Disney, Washington Mutual, Southwest Airlines, and Martinez Books – the largest Latino bookstore on the West Coast. There will be more than 70 vendors and hands-on activities, such as face-painting, hair-braiding, bookmark-making and an art bar for craftmaking. A petting zoo and exotic animal area will also help bring the books to life. Kiwanis Club of Santa Ana is contributing more than 250 volunteers for the event. Other nonprofit organizations adhering to reading, literacy and education will also be part of the festival. An entertainment stage featuring the band Kingston Technology, starring the owners of the Orange County-based company, will perform. Take a gander beneath the storylines and find out what inspires these creative authors, while also supporting child literacy at the 2007 Orange County Children’s Book Festival. What: The fourth annual Orange County Children’s Book Festival When: Saturday, Sept. 29, and Sunday, Sept. 30 from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Where: Orange Coast College, 2701 Fairview Rd. in Costa Mesa Cost: FREE Highlights: Local authors Jeff, Brittany and Brianna Winner, who also go by J.B.B. Winner, will take the Superheroes Stage to discuss their book “The Strand Prophecy.” Meet the many authors and illustrators attending, and hear all the great musicians on the Entertainment Stage. Also, kids will love the many hands-on activities, such as bookmark-making and face-painting. Information: kidsbookfestival.com Ashley Eliot is an editorial assistant for OC Family Magazine. |
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