In college I took a children’s literature class. When we talked end papers, illustrators, and poetry, I fell in love with children’s picture books. In my mind, they are art in the purest form. I wrote a post about one of my favorites a while ago- I am going to leave it off this list, since I already expressed my love for it. I am attempting to list ten children’s books I have loved reading to my children, and I’m trying to stay clear of “super classics”, like Where the Wild things Are and Harold and the Purple Crayon, even though we love those too.
I must say, though, it is unbelievably hard for me to choose only ten….
10. The Hello, Goodbye Window by Norton Juster A little girl revels in her special relationship with her grandparents. It’s a beautifully illustrated book about family, love, and meaningful time together.
9. Across the Alley by Richard Michelson This is a true story of true friendship against the odds. I checked it out from the library by chance and it has stayed with me ever since.
7. Micawber by John Lithgow Lovely rhymes and famous art references make this book fantastic and fun to read. A squirrel who can paint makes it magical!
6. Make Way For Ducklings by Robert McCloskey For months this book was my second son’s favorite- he even kept it hidden in his bed to read at night. It is certainly a classic, and a sweet tale of a family of ducks finding a home.
5. Press Here by Herve Tullet I just found this book in the bookstore the other day. It is a super delightful interactive book that also will teach right, left, and colors.
4. Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems Mo Willems is one of our all-time favorite authors. Knuffle Bunny is a book about a girl’s devotion to her stuffed bunny, and her father’s devotion to her. My children memorized it after reading so many times.
3. Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren, illustrated by Lauren child The boys were thrilled to meet Pippi who has outrageous adventures and funny ideas about the world. Lauren Child’s illustrations make this book even more special.
2. Timothy and the Strong Pajamas by Viviane Schwarz A book for every child who has ever: 1. Wanted to wear their pajamas all day and/or 2. Wanted to be a super hero. Timothy’s mom makes his pajamas “super strong” and they give him super powers, which he uses for good. Timothy also has a sock monkey as a side-kick who is quick with the one-liners!
1. Skippyjon Jones by Judy Schachner This whole series is HI-LARIOUS! Especially if you can read it with a really fantastic Spanish accent, El Skippito Friskito and his rascally ways will crack you and your kids up!
The first time I read Skippyjon Jones…my girls and I laughed until we cried. I read it with an accent. It was the most fun. I enjoy all the other books as well. 🙂