This is a post/page I’ve wanted to share for ages! As my husband can attest, I’m somewhat addicted to books. Fortunately for our budget, I am well acquainted with interlibrary loans and the staff of our local library. My purchases are typically limited to used cookbooks, reference books and children’s books obtained through Better World Books, Amazon Marketplace and area bookstores.
Anyway, now that both of our children are reading as well, it’s difficult for us to leave the library with less than two canvas bags stuffed full of books. While there is no shortage of lists—even books of lists—regarding the “best books for children,” I can’t help but want to add my own to the mix.
Following are the books we found irresistible at the times they were age appropriate for our children. Since there are descriptions available for each via the links, I’ll stick to listing our favorites rather than describing the merits of each. If, however, you have questions or comments about any, please let me know.
Happy reading!
“Must Reads” for Ages 1-3
Snuggle Puppy by Sandra Boynton
Opposites by Sandra Boynton
Doggies by Sandra Boyton
Other Boynton favorites include Moo, Baa, La La La and Horns to Toes and In Between.
Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems
Though Mo Willems is probably best known for Don’t Let the Pigeon Ride the Bus, which we also enjoyed, Knuffle Bunny hit home like few others. “Lamby” was our equivalent. We’ve been there, and we can relate all too well.
In addition to the other Pigeon books—Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late, Don’t Let the Pigeon Ride the Bus, and The Pigeon Wants a Puppy—we recommend his Elephant and Piggie books for 4-6 year olds.
I Love You Through and Through by Bernadette Rossetti Shustack and illustrated by Caroline Jayne Church
“Must Reads” for Ages 4-8 (or Younger), by Theme
Bears
Don’t You Feel Well, Sam? by Amy Hest
Kiss Good Night by Amy Hest
Orange Pear Apple Bear by Emily Gravett
Cows
Buttercup’s Lovely Day by Carolyn Beck
The Cow That Laid an Egg by Andy Cutbill
Too Many Pears by Jackie French
