Whether it's Alice catapulting down a rabbit’s hole, or a corduroy bear missing a button, many of us have childhood stories that hold an enduring place in our heart. Yet when we return to these books years after they first captured our imaginations, we find them rich with lessons that we may have missed so many years before. At LitWorld we celebrate children’s literature every day. Below is a collection of our favorite children’s books that every child at heart should own.
"Peter Pan" by J.M. Barrie
In the timeless tale of a boy who never grows up, J.M. Barrie explores the conflict between the innocence of childhood and the responsibility of adulthood. Set against the backdrop of 19th century London and the magical island of Never-Never Land, “Peter Pan” is one part childhood fantasy, one part grand adventure, and one part exploration of innocence, love, and what it means to grow up.
"The Little Engine That Could" by Watty Piper
"The Little Engine That Could" is the story of a small steam engine with a heavy load to pull up a steep hill. Time and time again the little engine tries to make it over the hill but meets set back after set back. Of course, our hero has the pluck and gumption to continue his efforts and eventually with hard work and perseverance, he achieves his goal. With colorful and dynamic illustrations, the simple yet profound moral here is one for all ages: If at first you don’t succeed, try again.
"Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" by Judith Viorst
We've all been there. We’ve all had one of those days, where everything seems to go wrong. The coffee machine is broken, the car won’t start, you spill juice all over yourself… on and on it goes. Join Alexander on his very bad day for a laugh, a sigh of recognition, and an important reminder that tomorrow is a new day.
"The Missing Piece Meets the Big O" by Shel Silverstein
While copies of “The Giving Tree” continue to fly off the shelf, do yourself a favor a pick up a copy of Shel Silverstein’s hidden gem, “The Missing Piece Meets the Big O.” It is the story of a missing piece that is looking for another perfect piece to complete itself. This simply told story takes an unabashed look at relationships, happiness, fulfillment, love, and what it means to be whole.
The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling
The most popular and iconic series of our generation, Harry Potter is for lovers of magic of all ages. The series follows a child wizard through an engaging and ever evolving plot, flying through worlds and decades. Brimming with themes, metaphors, and substance, this is a series that grows with its readers, challenging us along with its main characters. Catapult yourself into a magical world with mystery, adventure, romance, and a deep streak of humanity.