The 30 Best Classic Children's Books That Still Delight

The 30 Best Classic Children Book That Still Delight

Are you ready to take a trip down memory lane? Do you remember the classic children's books that made you fall in love with reading? Maybe it was a story about a spider named Charlotte, or a young orphan named Anne who found a home on Prince Edward Island. Whatever it was, these books have a special place in our hearts and continue to delight readers of all ages, even decades after they were first published.

In this blog post, we're going to highlight 30 classic children's books that have stood the test of time. These are the books that have captured the imaginations of generations, and that we continue to turn to when we need a good story. From heartwarming tales of friendship and family to thrilling adventures in far-off lands, these books have something for everyone.

Alright, enough talking, let's dive into the good stuff! Here are 30 classic children's books that have stood the test of time and continue to delight readers of all ages.

List of books:

1. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle (Age range: 10-14, Published: 1962) - Meg Murry and her friends travel through time and space to rescue Meg's father from evil forces. The book has been praised for its exploration of complex themes such as science, philosophy, and spirituality.

2. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll (Age range: 8-12, Published: 1865) - Alice falls down a rabbit hole and enters a fantastical world where she encounters eccentric characters and experiences surreal situations. The book has endured for its whimsical and imaginative storytelling.

3. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery (Age range: 8-12, Published: 1908) - Anne Shirley, an orphan, is sent to live with a family on Prince Edward Island and discovers a sense of belonging and purpose. The book has been cherished for its relatable characters, vivid descriptions of nature, and themes of family and friendship.

4. Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina (Age range: 3-7, Published: 1940) - A cap salesman falls asleep under a tree, and his caps are stolen by a group of mischievous monkeys. The book's playful illustrations and repetitive language make it a classic for early readers.

5. Charlotte's Web by E.B. White (Age range: 8-12, Published: 1952) - A pig named Wilbur befriends a spider named Charlotte who helps him escape the fate of being slaughtered. The book's touching themes of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice have made it a beloved children's classic.

6. Corduroy by Don Freeman (Age range: 3-5, Published: 1968) - A stuffed bear named Corduroy searches for his missing button in a department store. The book's gentle message of acceptance and inclusivity has resonated with young readers for decades.

7. Curious George by H.A. Rey (Age range: 3-7, Published: 1941) - A mischievous monkey named George gets into all sorts of trouble as he explores the world around him. The book's humorous illustrations and relatable protagonist have made it a favorite of young children.

8. Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown (Age range: 0-3, Published: 1947) - A young rabbit says goodnight to all the things in his room before falling asleep. The book's simple yet soothing rhyme scheme and iconic illustrations have made it a bedtime staple for generations of families.

9. Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss (Age range: 3-7, Published: 1960) - Sam-I-Am tries to convince a reluctant friend to try green eggs and ham in this playful rhyming story. The book's whimsical language and imaginative illustrations make it a classic of children's literature.

10. Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson (Age range: 3-7, Published: 1955) - Harold draws his own adventures with his trusty purple crayon. The book's emphasis on creativity and imagination has inspired generations of young readers.

11. Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell (Age range: 10-14, Published: 1960) - A young Native American girl named Karana is stranded on an island for years and must fend for herself. The book's vivid descriptions of nature and themes of survival and independence have made it a classic of young adult literature.

12. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott (1868): Age range - 8-12 years. This classic coming-of-age novel follows the four March sisters - Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy - as they navigate their way through adolescence and womanhood. It explores themes of family, love, and the challenges of growing up. Despite being written over 150 years ago, Little Women is still popular today due to its timeless themes and relatable characters.

13. Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans (1939): Age range - 4-8 years. This charming picture book follows the adventures of Madeline, a plucky young girl who lives in a Parisian boarding school. Madeline is known for her bravery and fearlessness, which make her a beloved character for young readers. The book is also famous for its illustrations, which showcase the beauty and charm of Paris.

14. Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey (1941): Age range - 3-7 years. This heartwarming picture book tells the story of a family of ducks who make their home in the heart of Boston. The book follows the ducks as they navigate the bustling city and find a safe place to raise their ducklings. Make Way for Ducklings is popular due to its charming illustrations and sweet story, which teaches children about the importance of family and community.

15. Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton (1939): Age range - 3-7 years. This classic picture book tells the story of Mike Mulligan and his trusty steam shovel, Mary Anne. The two have worked together for years, digging canals and building roads. But when modern technology starts to make their job obsolete, Mike and Mary Anne must find a way to prove that they still have value. The book is popular due to its lovable characters and themes of hard work and perseverance.

16. Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O'Brien (1971): Age range - 8-12 years. This gripping novel follows the story of Mrs. Frisby, a widowed mouse who must find a way to save her family from the farmer's plow. Along the way, she meets a group of highly intelligent rats who have escaped from a nearby laboratory. Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH is popular due to its exciting plot and thought-provoking themes about animal rights and the nature of intelligence.

17. Oh, the Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss (1990): Age range - 4-8 years. This beloved book is a staple graduation gift for children of all ages. It follows a young person as they embark on a journey through life, encountering both successes and failures along the way. Oh, the Places You'll Go! is popular due to its inspiring message and whimsical illustrations, which have become a hallmark of Dr. Seuss's work.

18. Strega Nona by Tomie dePaola (1975): Age range - 4-8 years. This delightful picture book tells the story of Strega Nona, a kind-hearted witch who helps the people of her village by using her magical powers to cook delicious meals. When her apprentice, Big Anthony, tries to take over her job, chaos ensues. Strega Nona is popular due to its lovable characters and playful storytelling.

19. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain (Ages 10-14) - Published in 1876, this classic novel follows the adventures of a young boy growing up in a small town on the Mississippi River. The book has been praised for its humor, its vivid descriptions of life in the 19th century, and its commentary on race and social class. It is often taught in schools and is a beloved classic of American literature.

20. The Black Stallion by Walter Farley (Ages 8-12) - First published in 1941, The Black Stallion tells the story of a boy named Alec who is stranded on a desert island with a wild black stallion. The two form a bond and eventually find their way back to civilization, where they go on to become famous racehorses. The book has been praised for its thrilling action sequences, its well-drawn characters, and its depiction of the deep bond between humans and animals.

$ads={1}

21. The Call of the Wild by Jack London (Age range: 12+, Published: 1903) - This classic adventure novel follows the story of a dog named Buck, who is stolen from his comfortable home and sold into the brutal world of the Yukon gold rush. As Buck adapts to the harsh conditions and learns to survive, he also begins to tap into his primal instincts and embrace his wild nature. The Call of the Wild is a thrilling tale of survival, strength, and the indomitable spirit of the natural world.

22. The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss (Age range: 3-7, Published: 1957) - One of the most beloved children's books of all time, The Cat in the Hat is a zany and whimsical tale of two children who are left home alone on a rainy day, only to be visited by a mischievous cat in a tall striped hat. With its catchy rhymes, colorful illustrations, and memorable characters, The Cat in the Hat has captured the imaginations of generations of young readers.

23. The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein (Age range: 4-8, Published: 1964) - This poignant and heartwarming story tells of the relationship between a young boy and a generous apple tree. Over the years, the boy visits the tree and takes everything it has to offer, from its branches to its trunk, until only a stump remains. The Giving Tree is a powerful testament to the boundless love of a parent or caregiver, and a reminder to cherish and appreciate the gifts of nature.

24. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien (Age range: 12+, Published: 1937) - This classic fantasy novel follows the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, a quiet and contented hobbit who is recruited by the wizard Gandalf to join a group of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their stolen treasure from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters trolls, elves, goblins, and a host of other fantastical creatures, and learns to rely on his wits and bravery to survive. The Hobbit is a timeless tale of heroism, friendship, and the power of storytelling.

25. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis (Age range: 9-12, Published: 1950) - The first book in the beloved Chronicles of Narnia series, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe tells the story of four siblings who stumble upon a magical world hidden behind the doors of a wardrobe. There they encounter talking animals, fierce battles, and a great lion named Aslan, who is prophesied to defeat the evil White Witch and restore Narnia to its former glory. With its rich world-building, vivid characters, and timeless themes of good vs. evil, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe has enchanted readers for generations.

26. The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper (Age range: 3-7, Published: 1930) - This beloved children's book tells the story of a small blue engine that agrees to take on the daunting task of hauling a train full of toys and food over a steep mountain. Despite her small size and lack of confidence, the little engine perseveres, repeating the mantra "I think I can, I think I can" until she reaches the top. The Little Engine That Could is a timeless tale of determination, courage, and the power of positive thinking.

27. The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf (Age range: 4-8 years; Published: 1936) The Story of Ferdinand is a classic children's book that tells the story of a gentle bull named Ferdinand who would rather sit and smell flowers than fight in the bullring. Despite being published in 1936, the book's themes of nonviolence and individuality continue to resonate with young readers today.

28. The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter (Age range: 3-7 years; Published: 1902) is a beloved classic that has been entertaining children for over a century. It tells the story of a mischievous young rabbit who disobeys his mother's orders and ventures into Mr. McGregor's garden. The book's charming illustrations and relatable characters have made it a favorite among young readers.

29. The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams (Age range: 4-8 years; Published: 1922) is a heartwarming tale about a stuffed rabbit who longs to become real. The story explores themes of love, friendship, and the power of imagination. Despite being over 100 years old, the book's themes continue to resonate with young readers today.

30. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (Age range: 2-5 years; Published: 1969) is a classic children's book that has been entertaining young readers for over 50 years. The book tells the story of a caterpillar who eats his way through various foods before transforming into a butterfly. The book's colorful illustrations and interactive format have made it a favorite among young children, and it continues to be a popular choice for parents and teachers alike.

Hidden gems

Get ready to add some new favorites to your reading list! Our curated collection of children's books features a mix of well-known classics and some hidden gems that you may not have heard of before. Whether you're looking to revisit old favorites or discover something new, there's a book for every young reader on this list.

Here's a list that features a mix of well-known titles and some lesser-known gems:

1. Charlotte's Web by E.B. White (1952): Age range - 8-12 years. This beloved classic follows the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte, who work together to save Wilbur from becoming bacon. The book is known for its charming illustrations and a heartwarming message about the value of friendship.

2. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett (1911): Age range - 8-12 years. This enchanting novel follows the adventures of young Mary Lennox, who discovers a secret garden on her uncle's estate and helps to bring it back to life. The book is known for its vivid descriptions of nature and its themes of friendship, family, and the power of imagination.

3. The Moffats by Eleanor Estes (1941): Age range - 8-12 years. This delightful novel follows the adventures of the Moffat family - four siblings and their widowed mother - as they navigate life in a small New England town during the Great Depression. The book is known for its relatable characters and charming humor.

4. The Saturdays by Elizabeth Enright (1941): Age range - 8-12 years. This engaging novel follows the adventures of the Melendy siblings - Mona, Rush, Randy, and Oliver - as they explore New York City on a series of Saturday outings. The book is known for its charming illustrations and its themes of family, creativity, and the joys of childhood.

5. The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster (1961): Age range - 8-12 years. This clever and imaginative novel follows the adventures of a boy named Milo as he travels through a magical tollbooth and embarks on a quest to rescue the princesses Rhyme and Reason. The book is known for its witty wordplay and its clever exploration of complex ideas.

6. The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden (1960): Age range - 8-12 years. This charming novel follows the adventures of a cricket named Chester and his friends - a cat named Tucker and a mouse named Harry - as they explore New York City and try to make Chester's dreams of becoming a famous musician come true. The book is known for its delightful illustrations and its heartwarming message about the power of friendship.

7. The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner (1924): Age range - 7-10 years. This classic mystery series follows the adventures of four orphaned siblings - Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny - as they live in a boxcar in the woods and solve mysteries. The books are known for their relatable characters and their engaging, suspenseful plots.

8. From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg (1967): Age range - 9-12 years. This inventive novel follows the adventures of Claudia and Jamie Kincaid as they run away from home and hide out in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The book is known for its imaginative premise and its themes of independence, creativity, and the power of art.

9. The Great Brain by John D. Fitzgerald (1967): Age range - 8-12 years. This charming novel follows the adventures of a mischievous boy named Tom Fitzgerald and his older brother J.D., who is known as the "Great Brain" for his cunning schemes and clever tricks. The book is known for its relatable characters and its humorous, lighthearted tone.

10. Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh (1964): Age range - 8-12 years. This classic novel follows the adventures of an aspiring writer named Harriet M. Welsch, who keeps a notebook of observations about the people and places in her New York City neighborhood. The book is known for its relatable, complex protagonist and its themes of identity, honesty, and the power of writing.

Classic children's books continue to captivate readers of all ages with their timeless themes, charming illustrations, and relatable characters. From well-known titles like "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" and "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" to lesser-known gems like "The Moffats" and "The Saturdays," these books have stood the test of time and continue to inspire generations.

We encourage you to revisit your favorite classic children's books or to discover some new ones. There's always something new to discover, even in the books we thought we knew so well.

As for me, one of my favorite classic children's books is “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle. Its beautiful illustrations and imaginative storyline always transport me back to my childhood and remind me of the power of our imagination.

So, pick up a classic children's book and relive some of your fondest memories or create new ones. As Dr. Seuss once said, "You're never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read with a child."

Disclaimer:

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This means that if you click on an Amazon link on our website and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. However, this does not affect the price you pay for the product.