Notes and Disclaimers: These books are loosely organized.

I dont guarantee that the books will be suitable for your child at the age they are listed undertake a look at the books yourself and see what you think. They are not really organized within each category, except that all the books by the same author are listed together. Sometimes I have noted that a book is oriented more toward boys or girls. I am by no means suggesting that the opposite sex should not read the bookI just think one gender may enjoy the book more than the other. A great book for suggesting good literature for your children is Honey for a Childs Heart by Mrs. Gladys Hunt. If you have other books to suggest that your children love, please e-mail me and Ill be glad to know about them and add them to my list! (Good books for older boys seem especially hard to find.) Also, if you have concerns about a book, please let me know, since its been a while since Ive read many of these and I may need to re-think recommending them. Esther Howe esther@vicoms.com Picture Books Books for Babies and Toddlers Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (He has several other books for this age group; I think this one is the best but the others are certainly harmless.) Anything by Sandra Boynton (Not timeless literature in my opinion, but Aidan would sit still and look at these books when only a few months old, long before any other books could hold his attention, and he still loves them at age two.) Each Peach Pear Plum by Janet and Allan Ahlberg (Also suitable for older children, especially those who have read some Mother Goose rhymes.) The Bundle Book by Ruth Krauss Books for Preschoolers to Listen to or Early Elementary to Read Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans (series is girl-oriented, my little boy loves them nonetheless) Madeline and the Gypsies by Ludwig Bemelmans Madeline and the Bad Hat by Ludwig Bemelmans Madeline in London by Ludwig Bemelmans Madelines Rescue by Ludwig Bemelmans The Church Mouse by Graham Oakley (The Church Mice books are great fun for adults as well as kids as they contain sly humor geared for grown-ups as well as stories children love. Unfortunately, many of them are out of print.) The Church Mice and the Ring by Graham Oakley The Church Mice at Christmas by Graham Oakley The Church Mice Spread Their Wings by Graham Oakley The Church Cat Abroad by Graham Oakley

The Church Mice in Action by Graham Oakley The Diary of Church Mouse by Graham Oakley The Church Mice Adrift by Graham Oakley Humphrey Hits the Jackpot by Graham Oakley The Church Mice Take a Break by Graham Oakley The Church Mice at Bay by Graham Oakley The Church Mice and the Moon by Graham Oakley Caps for Sale: A Tale of a Peddler, Some Monkeys and Their Monkey Business by Esphyr Slobodkina Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey One Morning in Maine by Robert McCloskey Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey Time of Wonder by Robert McCloskey The Popcorn Book by Tomie De Paola Pancakes for Breakfast by Tomie De Paola The Cloud Book by Tomie De Paola Fin MCoul by Tomie De Paola Tomie De Paolas Mother Goose by Tomie De Paola Tomie De Paolas Favorite Nursery Tales by Tomie De Paola Owl at Home by Arnold Lobel Mouse Tales by Arnold Lobel Mouse Soup by Arnold Lobel Frog and Toad Are Friends by Arnold Lobel Frog and Toad Together by Arnold Lobel Days With Frog and Toad by Arnold Lobel Frog and Toad All Year by Arnold Lobel In the Night Kitchen by Maurice Sendak Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak The Nutshell Library (contains Pierre, Chicken Soup with Rice, One was Johnny , and Alligators All Around) by Maurice Sendak (The tiny size of these books make them great for traveling and kids all seem to love how little they are.) Seven Little Postmen by Margaret Wise Brown Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel by Virginia Lee Burton (boy-oriented) The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton Bedtime for Frances by Russell Hoban (There are a number of other books about Frances; I think this is the best one since she is a little more saucy and self-centered in the others and doesnt always address her parents respectfully.) The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats Whistle for Willie by Ezra Jack Keats Peters Chair by Ezra Jack Keats The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen, ill by Susan Jeffers (Susan Jeffers is an amazing illustrator whose books seem to keep going out of print. It may take purchasing used books to find some of these but they are well worth it. Each page could be framed and put up on the wall.) Cinderella by Amy Ehrlich, ill by Susan Jeffers Hansel and Gretel by Jacob Grimm, ill by Susan Jeffers Black Beauty by Susan Jeffers

The Wild Swans by Amy Ehrlich, ill by Susan Jeffers Thumbelina by H. C. Andersen, ill by Susan Jeffers Hiawatha by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, ill by Susan Jeffers McDuff Moves In by Rosemary Wells, ill by Susan Jeffers (There are a number of books about McDuff the terrier; I have not read them all but have liked the ones Ive seen.) Saint George and the Dragon by Margaret Hodges, ill by Trina Schart Hyman (Trina Schart Hyman is another amazing illustratorI get anything I can lay my hands on that she has done.) The Kitchen Knight: A Tale of King Arthur by Margaret Hodges, ill by Trina Schart Hyman Little Red Riding Hood by Trina Schart Hyman Snow White by Paul Heins, ill by Trina Schart Hyman Hilary Knights The Owl and the Pussy-Cat by Edward Lear Hilary Knights Cinderella by Hilary Knight (girl-oriented) Jack and the Beanstalk retold by Steven Kellogg The Three Little Pigs retold by Steven Kellogg Can I Keep Him? by Steven Kellogg The Mysterious Tadpole by Steven Kellogg Island of the Skog by Steven Kellogg Pecos Bill by Steven Kellogg Paul Bunyan by Steven Kellogg Johnny Appleseed by Steven Kellogg The Day Jimmys Boa Ate the Wash by Trinka Hakes Noble, ill by Steven Kellogg Jimmys Boa Bounces Back by Trinka Hakes Noble ill by Steven Kellogg Anything by Richard Scarry (I dont think Richard Scarrys books really count as childrens literaturethe story lines rarely seem strong to me. But the illustrations are fun and kids will sit and pore over them for hours.) I Had Trouble Getting to Solla Sollew by Dr. Seuss (Im not a fan of the more preachy of Dr. Seusss books, including The Sneetches and The Lorax, which drive home a message at the expense of a good story, in my opinion. But these Dr. Seuss books are just plain fun.) And To Think That I Saw It On Mulberry Street by Dr. Seuss The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins by Dr. Seuss Bartholomew and the Oobleck by Dr. Seuss The Kings Stilts by Dr. Seuss One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss Yertle the Turtle by Dr. Seuss Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss Oh Say Can You Say by Dr. Seuss Fox in Socks by Dr. Seuss How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss Horton Hatches the Egg by Dr. Seuss Horton Hears a Who by Dr. Seuss The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss The Cat in the Hat Comes Back by Dr. Seuss If I Ran the Zoo by Dr. Seuss Dr. Seusss Sleep Book by Dr. Seuss Oh the Thinks You Can Think by Dr. Seuss

Annos Journey by Mitsumasa Anno (Beautifully illustrated by a Japanese artist, these books are precursors to Wheres Waldo, with a traveler to find on every page.) Annos Italy by Mitsumasa Anno Annos Britain by Mitsumasa Anno Annos U.S.A. by Mitsumasa Anno Annos Spain by Mitsumasa Anno Annos Medieval World by Mitsumasa Anno King Bidgoods in the Bathtub by Audrey Wood, ill by Don Wood (Hilarious illustrations of a king who makes his courtiers join him in the bathtub when he doesnt want to get out.) The Napping House by Audrey Wood, ill by Don Wood The Seven Silly Eaters by Mary Ann Hoberman (This books detailed illustrations of a chaotic family with seven kids will endear itself to anyone who has been around large families.) No Such Things by Bill Peet (Bill Peet was a cartoonist for Disney in the 50s and 60s and his childrens books show his cartooning background, but the plot lines are good and his style is distinctive and not purely Disney.) Zella, Zack and Zodiac by Bill Peet Ella by Bill Peet Randys Dandy Lions by Bill Peet Encore for Eleanor by Bill Peet The Kweeks of Kookatumdee by Bill Peet The Wump World by Bill Peet Farewell to Shady Glade by Bill Peet Cowardly Clyde by Bill Peet Huberts Hair Raising Adventure by Bill Peet The Caboose Who Got Loose by Bill Peet Kermit the Hermit by Bill Peet Chester the Worldly Pig by Bill Peet The Whingdingdilly by Bill Peet How Droofus the Dragon Lost His Head by Bill Peet Cyrus the Unsinkable Sea Serpent by Bill Peet Buford the Little Bighorn by Bill Peet The Pinkish, Purplish, Bluish Egg by Bill Peet Huge Harold by Bill Peet Merle the High Flying Squirrel by Bill Peet Pamela Camel by Bill Peet Smokey by Bill Peet Capyboppy by Bill Peet Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion Harry and the Lady Next Door by Gene Zion Harry by the Sea by Gene Zion No Roses for Harry! by Gene Zion The Stray Dog by Marc Simont (The simple story of a homeless dog adopted by two children with endearing drawings by the illustrator of The Thirteen Clocks.) The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper The Story About Ping by Marjorie Flack Wynken, Blynken, & Nod by Eugene Field

Curious George by H.A. Rey Curious George Takes a Job by H.A. Rey Curious George Rides a Bike by H.A. Rey Curious George Gets a Medal by H.A. Rey Curious George Flies a Kite by H.A. Rey Curious George Learns the Alphabet by H.A. Rey Curious George Goes to the Hospital by H.A. Rey Corgiville by Tasha Tudor Rapunzel by Paul O. Zelinsky Animalia by Graeme Base The Eleventh Hour by Graeme Base (This detailed and complex mystery book has clues hidden throughout that you will struggle to solve yourself! The exciting illustrations and fun rhymes will please your children even if they cant figure out the mystery. Mercifully, the solution is included at the end.) Jabberwocky by Lewis Carroll, ill by Graeme Base BoredNothing to Do by Peter Spier (Out of print the last time I checked, this book is mainly illustrations with very little text: a boy-oriented story about two brothers who build an airplane out of materials from around their house when they cant think of other activities to occupy their time.) The Erie Canal by Peter Spier George and Martha by James Marshall George and Martha Encore by James Marshall George and Martha Rise and Shine by James Marshall George and Martha One Fine Day by James Marshall George and Martha Tons of Fun by James Marshall George and Martha Back in Town by James Marshall George and Martha Round and Round by James Marshall James Herriot's Treasury for Children by James Herriot The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin by Beatrix Potter The Tailor of Gloucester by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Benjamin Bunny by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Two Bad Mice by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle by Beatrix Potter The Tale of the Pie and the Patty-Pan by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Mr. Jeremy Fisher by Beatrix Potter The Story of a Fierce Bad Rabbit by Beatrix Potter The Story of Miss Moppet by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Tom Kitten by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Samuel Whiskers (also called The Roly-Poly Pudding) by Beatrix Potter The Tale of the Flopsy Bunnies by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Ginger and Pickles by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Mrs. Tittlemouse by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Timmy Tiptoes by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Mr. Tod by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Pigling Bland by Beatrix Potter

Appley Dapplys Nursery Rhymes by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Johnny Town-Mouse by Beatrix Potter Cecily Parsleys Nursery Rhymes by Beatrix Potter The Tale of Little Pig Robinson by Beatrix Potter Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett Tikki Tikki Tembo retold by Arlene Mosel (An old Chinese folk story, my mom heard a different version of this growing up in Japan. This version retains the rhythm and cadence of Far Eastern storytelling.) Crow Boy by Taro Yashima Wee Gillis by Munro Leaf (Out of print last time I checked, this story is set in the Scottish highlands in the days of bagpipes and kilts.) Thy Friend, Obadiah by Brinton Turkle (The Obadiah stories are about a Quaker boy on Nantucket Island and will be pleasing to Christians; family worship, discipline for sin, etc. are part of the stories, yet they are fun, well-written, and have beautiful drawings.) Obadiah the Bold by Brinton Turkle The Adventures of Obadiah by Brinton Turkle Rachel and Obadiah by Brinton Turkle Many Moons by James Thurber The Snowman by Raymond Briggs (gorgeous colored-pencil drawings with almost no text; has also been made into a beautiful short film with wonderful music) Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile by Bernard Waber Lovable Lyle by Bernard Waber Lyle and the Birthday Party by Bernard Waber Lyle Finds His Mother by Bernard Waber Lyle at the Office by Bernard Waber Funny, Funny Lyle by Bernard Waber Ira Sleeps Over by Bernard Waber The Story of Babar by Jean de Brunhoff (I have not been impressed by the Babar books written by Laurent de Brunhoff, Jeans son.) The Travels of Babar by Jean de Brunhoff Babar the King by Jean de Brunhoff Babar and Zephir by Jean de Brunhoff Babar and His Children by Jean de Brunhoff Babar and Father Christmas by Jean de Brunhoff Corduroy by Don Freeman A Pocket for Corduroy by Don Freeman Norman the Doorman by Don Freeman Dandelion by Don Freeman Mop Top by Don Freeman Toot and Puddle by Hollie Hobbie (There are several books in this charming series about two pigs who are best friends; weve liked every one weve read.) Jungle Doctor stories by Paul White (Out of print last I checked, these short stories based on African fables are written by an Australian missionary doctor. His books about his time in Africa, also titled Jungle Doctor are excellent for older children and teenagers.) Poetry Collections

A Childs Book of Poems ill by Gyo Fujikawa (Out of print the last time I checked, these books have cute illustrations and a nice variety of poetry that kids love to pore over. A favorite from my childhood.) Mother Goose ill by Gyo Fujikawa The Complete Nonsense Book by Edward Lear A Childs Garden of Verses by Robert Louis Stevenson, ill by Tasha Tudor Bible Story Picture Books Read Aloud Bible Stories: Vols. 1-4 by Ella K. Lindvall (Geared for pre-schoolers, these books have illustrations with only the back of Jesus shown.) The Moses Basket by Jenny Koralek (I have not actually seen these books by Koralek; they were recommended by a friend.) The Coat of Many Colors by Jenny Koralek Exodus by Brian Wildsmith (I have not actually seen this book.) Noah and the Ark by Tomie De Paola Tomie De Paolas Book of Bible Stories by Tomie De Paola (With passages taken directly from the NIV, this book is beautifully illustrated and probably best read aloud. There are a few pictures of Jesus.) Queen Esther by Tomie De Paola I See Four by Mildred Krentel (Out of print, unfortunately, this is the story of the fiery furnace in Daniel.) Ruth (Little Fish Books About You and Me) by Gospel Light Publications (The Little Fish books are very smallprobably 3" square, and are great for keeping kids quiet in church. Unfortunately, most of the ones now in print contain pictures of Jesus. None of the ones listed here do, however.) Paul (Little Fish Books About You and Me) by Gospel Light Publications Peter (Little Fish Books About You and Me) by Gospel Light Publications Dorcas (Little Fish Books About You and Me) by Gospel Light Publications Fed by Ravens (Little Fish Books About Bible Animals) by Gospel Light Publications Animals of the Bible by Mary Hoffman and Jackie Morris Noahs Ark by Peter Spier (By the author of BoredNothing to Do, this book has detailed illustrations that keep kids busy looking at each page for a long time. Once again, there is very little text: the story is told in the pictures. A winner of the Caldecott Medal.) The Book of Jonah by Peter Spier (out of print, unfortunately, but just as good as Noahs Ark) David and Goliath by Jean Marzollo (I stumbled across this book in a store; its got fun, scribbly illustrations and weaves the 23rd Psalm into the story. She has written two other books that I have not seen, Daniel in the Lions Den and Miriam and Her Brother Moses.) Let There Be Light by Pauline Baynes (The creation story from the King James Version of the Bible beautifully illustrated by the artist who did the Narnia books, this story has a couple of drawings in which Adam and Eve are not conveniently hidden behind bushes, but the drawings are not explicit.) Chapter Books Homer Price by Robert McCloskey (boy-oriented) Centerburg Tales: More Adventures of Homer Price by Robert McCloskey (boy-oriented) Lentil by Robert McCloskey (boy-oriented) The Singing Tree by Kate Seredy A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond

Paddington Helps Out by Michael Bond Paddington Marches On by Michael Bond Paddington Abroad by Michael Bond Paddington On Screen by Michael Bond Paddington At Large by Michael Bond Rabbit Hill by Robert Lawson Ben and Me by Robert Lawson Mr. Poppers Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg Mary Poppins by P.L. Travers Mary Poppins in the Park by P.L. Travers Mary Poppins Comes Back by P.L. Travers Mary Poppins and the House Next Door by P.L. Travers Mary Poppins in Cherry Tree Lane by P.L. Travers Mary Poppins Opens the Door by P.L. Travers The Story of Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting (These books have been viewed with skepticism by modern readers because of somewhat racist content in places, particularly in Dr. D.s visits to Africa. The books were written early in the 20th century. Modern editions have cut some of this content and removed some illustrations. Most of the later books in the series are out of print. Again, I think a little discussion with your child would negate any bad influence these books cause; they instill real love for animals and enjoyment of the world as Dr. D. travels to out-of-the-way places.) The Travels of Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting Doctor Dolittle and the Pirates by Hugh Lofting Doctor Dolittles Puddleby Adventures by Hugh Lofting Doctor Dolittle in the Moon by Hugh Lofting Doctor Dolittles Zoo by Hugh Lofting Doctor Dolittles Circus by Hugh Lofting Doctor Dolittles Garden by Hugh Lofting Doctor Dolittles Return by Hugh Lofting Doctor Dolittles Caravan by Hugh Lofting Doctor Dolittles Post Office by Hugh Lofting Doctor Dolittle and the Secret Lake by Hugh Lofting Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink, ill by Trina Schart Hyman (girl-oriented) Five Little Peppers and How They Grew by Margaret Sidney (girl-oriented) Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren (girl-oriented) The Moffats by Eleanor Estes (series is girl-oriented) The Middle Moffat by Eleanor Estes The Moffat Museum by Eleanor Estes Rufus M. by Eleanor Estes The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner (I really enjoyed the first book in the series, but found the later onesthere are manybegan to pall. The series degenerated into a Bobbsey Twins-type child-detectives series. However, the later books are harmless.) Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll Through the Looking-Glass: And What Alice Found There by Lewis Carroll

DAulaires Book of Greek Myths by Ingri DAulaire (Greek mythology has such a firm place in our Western canon that reading these myths at an early age really helps understanding of literature later.) The Classic Treasury of Bulfinchs Mythology by Thomas Bulfinch (simpler than DAulaires book and better for younger readers) The Childrens Homer by Padraic Colum (Excellent retellings of the Iliad and the Odyssey for readers not ready to tackle Homer directly. Beautifully illustrated with drawings reminiscent of Greek vases.) The Golden Fleece by Padraic Colum (retelling of the story of Jason and the Argonauts) The Trumpet of the Swan by E.B. White Charlottes Web by E.B. White Stuart Little by E.B. White Dangerous Journey: The Story of Pilgrims Progress by Oliver Hunkin (a big, beautifullyillustrated and -retold version of Pilgrims Progress.) The Borrowers by Mary Norton The Borrowers Afield by Mary Norton The Borrowers Afloat by Mary Norton The Borrowers Aloft by Mary Norton The Borrowers Avenged by Mary Norton Roller Skates by Ruth Sawyer (girl-oriented) Strawberry Girl by Lois Lenski (girl-oriented) The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum (The later books in the series are also enjoyable, especially the editions illustrated by John R. Neill.) The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden (These Selden books are geared younger than many of the other books in this categorya third-grader could probably read them comfortably or they could be read aloud to even younger children.) Harry Cats Pet Puppy by George Selden Chester Crickets Pigeon Ride by George Selden Harry Kitten and Tucker Mouse by George Selden Chester Crickets New Home by George Selden Tuckers Countryside by George Selden The Old Meadow by George Selden Heidi by Johanna Spyri (girl-oriented) Martin Pippin in the Apple Orchard by Eleanor Farjeon (girl-oriented) Just So Stories by Rudyard Kipling Call It Courage by Armstrong Sperry (boy-oriented) The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame, ill by Ernest Shepard The Reluctant Dragon by Kenneth Grahame, ill by Ernest Shepard Roverandom by J.R.R. Tolkien All-of-a-Kind Family by Sydney Taylor (series is girl-oriented) All-of-a-Kind Family Downtown by Sydney Taylor All-of-a-Kind Family Uptown by Sydney Taylor Ella of All-Of-A-Kind Family by Sydney Taylor Gone-Away Lake by Elizabeth Enright Return to Gone-Away by Elizabeth Enright

The Saturdays by Elizabeth Enright (This book and the subsequent titles by Enright are about a family of four children; I found them a funny and accurate picture of life with several siblings.) The Four-Story Mistake by Elizabeth Enright Then There Were Five by Elizabeth Enright Spiderweb for Two: A Melendy Maze by Elizabeth Enright Time at the Top by Edward Ormondroyd The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett, ill by Tasha Tudor (girl-oriented) A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett, ill by Tasha Tudor (girl-oriented) Misty of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry Rascal by Sterling North (boy-oriented) The Dog Who Wouldnt Be by Farley Mowat (A great read-aloud book everyone will enjoy, this is a humorous, sad, true story of a boy and his dog in Saskatchewan in the early 20 th century.) The Wheel on the School by Meindert DeJong Hans Brinker or The Silver Skates by Mary Mapes Dodge Winnie-the-Pooh by A. A. Milne (The Pooh books can be read to and by people of almost any age.) The House at Pooh Corner by A. A. Milne When We Were Very Young by A. A. Milne Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle by Betty MacDonald Mrs. Piggle-Wiggles Magic by Betty MacDonald Hello, Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle by Betty MacDonald Mrs. Piggle-Wiggles Farm by Betty MacDonald The Thirteen Clocks by James Thurber The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan (and the other Percy Jackson books) The Book of Dragons by E. Nesbit (E. Nesbit was one of the first writers of childrens fantasy and heavily influenced C. S. Lewis. Her books are fun but may be a little tough for younger readers to wade through because they were written in the 19 th century so some terminology may be unfamiliar; they might be best read aloud and explained.) The Magic City by E. Nesbit The Story of the Treasure Seekers by E. Nesbit The Magic World by E. Nesbit The Story of the Amulet by E. Nesbit The Phoenix and the Carpet by E. Nesbit The Enchanted Castle by E. Nesbit The Railway Children by E. Nesbit Five Children and It by E. Nesbit Little Women by Louisa May Alcott (Alcotts books are considered girl-oriented by some, but the authors love for boys and their high jinks shows through in every book and I think they can be enjoyed by either gender.) Little Men by Louisa May Alcott Jos Boys by Louisa May Alcott Eight Cousins by Louisa May Alcott Rose in Bloom by Louisa May Alcott An Old-Fashioned Girl by Louisa May Alcott Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm by Kate Douglas Wiggin (girl-oriented) Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery (series is girl-oriented)

Anne of Avonlea by L.M. Montgomery Anne of the Island by L.M. Montgomery Anne of Windy Poplars by L.M. Montgomery Annes House of Dreams by L.M. Montgomery Anne of Ingleside by L.M. Montgomery Rainbow Valley by L.M. Montgomery Rilla of Ingleside by L.M. Montgomery Emily of New Moon by L.M. Montgomery (I didnt find the latter two books in the Emily series nearly as enjoyable as the rest of Montgomerys books, but they are harmless.) Black Beauty by Anna Sewell (better to wait until your child is older and read the unabridged version) The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald The Princess and Curdie by George MacDonald At the Back of the North Wind by George MacDonald The Light Princess by George MacDonald, ill by Maurice Sendak The Golden Key by George MacDonald, ill by Maurice Sendak The Little White Horse by Elizabeth Goudge (girl-oriented) The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster Tales from Shakespeare by Charles and Mary Lamb The Grey Fairy Book by Andrew Lang (These Fairy Books by Lang are collections of fairy tales from all over the world, and have beautiful illustrations which are not reproduced very nicely by Dover.) The Brown Fairy Book by Andrew Lang The Crimson Fairy Book by Andrew Lang The Olive Fairy Book by Andrew Lang The Orange Fairy Book by Andrew Lang The Lilac Fairy Book by Andrew Lang The Violet Fairy Book by Andrew Lang The Pink Fairy Book by Andrew Lang The Yellow Fairy Book by Andrew Lang The Blue Fairy Book by Andrew Lang The Red Fairy Book by Andrew Lang The Green Fairy Book by Andrew Lang Watership Down by Richard Adams The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling (The original is vastly more interesting than the Disney version.) Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes (boy-oriented) The Hawk that Dare Not Hunt by Day by Scott ODell (Historical fiction about William Tyndale.) Carry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham Cheaper by the Dozen by Frank Gilbreth, Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey Belles on Their Toes by Frank Gilbreth, Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine LEngle A Wind in the Door by Madeleine LEngle A Swiftly Tilting Planet by Madeleine LEngle Many Waters by Madeleine LEngle

Of Nightingales That Weep by Katherine Paterson (Paterson is a Christian, and her Christian worldview subtly penetrates all of her works, but they may not be considered Sabbath-day reading by some.) The Master Puppeteer by Katherine Paterson The Sign of the Chrysanthemum by Katherine Paterson Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson The Wolves of Willoughby Chase by Joan Aiken (These well-written books have exciting, somewhat frightening plot lines. I was fascinated but also a little scared by them as a child. Reading them together or waiting until junior high-age might be best.) Black Hearts in Battersea by Joan Aiken Nightbirds on Nantucket by Joan Aiken The Stolen Lake by Joan Aiken The Cuckoo Tree by Joan Aiken Dido and Pa by Joan Aiken The Witch of Clatteringshaws Joan Aiken Midwinter Nightingale by Joan Aiken The White Mountains by John Christopher (boy-oriented) The City of Gold and Lead by John Christopher The Pool of Fire by John Christopher When the Tripods Came by John Christopher Mine for Keeps by Jean Little (girl-oriented) The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander The Black Cauldron by Lloyd Alexander The Castle of Llyr by Lloyd Alexander Taran Wanderer by Lloyd Alexander The High King by Lloyd Alexander Westmark by Lloyd Alexander The Kestrel by Lloyd Alexander The Beggar Queen by Lloyd Alexander The Drackenburg Adventure by Lloyd Alexander (This series of adventures about a young woman named Vesper Holly contain some fairly overt female-empowerment messages, with mainly evil or bumbling male characters. But they are well written and exciting and if discussed with your child would be fine, in my opinion. Girl-oriented.) The Jedera Adventure by Lloyd Alexander The Illyrian Adventure by Lloyd Alexander The El Dorado Adventure by Lloyd Alexander The Philadelphia Adventure by Lloyd Alexander Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson (boy-oriented) Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson (boy-oriented) Robinson Crusoe by Daniel Defoe (boy-oriented) The Adventures of Robin Hood by Roger Lancelyn Green (boy-oriented) King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table by Roger Lancelyn Green (boy-oriented) Aladdin and Other Tales from the Arabian Nights by W. Heath Robinson Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne (boy-oriented) 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea by Jules Verne (boy-oriented) The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle

The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain (I find Finn a lot more complex than Sawyer; your kids may need to wait a year or two between books.) Animal Farm by George Orwell The Song of Roland by Anonymous Gullivers Travels by Jonathan Swift (probably an abridged edition is best for younger readers there are several good ones out there; Your child could also read the original chapters on the visits to Lilliput and Brobdignag; the rest of the book is heavy going.) The Once and Future King by T. H. White Mistress Mashams Repose by T. H. White (based on the Lilliput section of Gullivers Travels have your kids read that first and theyll enjoy this more) Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfeild (series is girl-oriented) Party Shoes by Noel Streatfeild Circus Shoes by Noel Streatfeild Theater Shoes by Noel Streatfeild Skating Shoes by Noel Streatfeild New Shoes by Noel Streatfeild Tennis Shoes by Noel Streatfeild Dancing Shoes by Noel Streatfeild Movie Shoes by Noel Streatfeild Traveling Shoes by Noel Streatfeild Magic Summer by Noel Streatfeild Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder (series is a little girl-oriented but I know several boys who enjoyed it nonetheless) Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder On the Banks of Plum Creek by Laura Ingalls Wilder By the Shores of Silver Lake by Laura Ingalls Wilder The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls Wilder Little Town on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder These Happy Golden Years by Laura Ingalls Wilder The First Four Years by Laura Ingalls Wilder All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot All Things Bright and Beautiful by James Herriot All Things Wise and Wonderful by James Herriot The Lord God Made Them All by James Herriot Every Living Thing by James Herriot The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien (This is accessible to much younger readers than Lord of the Rings, which has caused nightmares in a couple of early-elementary kids I know. I recommend that LOTR wait until at least upper elementary, and then may be best read aloud together.) Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers by J.R.R. Tolkien Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Redwall books by Brian Jacques (Personally, I have never been able to get into these books, because the animal-oriented word choice irritated me so muchfor example, instead of everyone Jacques uses everybeast throughout the book. But kids love them. I would say upper elementary and older can read these.) Chapter Books to Help Your Children Grow As Christians I say books to help your children grow as Christians because all of the books on this list are by believers in Christ, but some may be less explicitly Christian than others. Star of Light by Patricia M. St. John Treasures of the Snow by Patricia M. St. John Twice Freed by Patricia M. St. John The Tanglewoods Secret by Patricia M. St. John Rainbow Garden by Patricia M. St. John Runaway by Patricia M. St. John The Secret at Pheasant Cottage by Patricia M. St. John Three Go Searching by Patricia M. St. John The Four Candles by Patricia M. St. John Jungle Doctor books by Paul White (Recently back in print by Christian Focus, these books recount the life of an Australian missionary doctor in mid-20 th century Tanzania.) The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare 100 Cupboards by N. D. Wilson Dandelion Fire by N. D. Wilson The Chestnut King by N. D. Wilson Dragon's Tooth by N. D. Wilson Leepike Ridge by N. D. Wilson Grandmas Attic books by Arleta Richardson The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom The Cross and the Switchblade by David Wilkerson (Written by a charismatic Christian pastor, this book will have theological leanings Reformed Christians disagree with. Nonetheless, the powerful story of the transforming power of Christ among inner-city gang members is helpful to young Christians.) Joni by Joni Eareckson Christy by Catherine Marshall The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis The Great Divorce by C. S. Lewis The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis (I recommend reading them in the order they were written, which is how they are listed here, rather than in the order they are currently published in, with Magicians Nephew first. I think a lot of the wonder of Lion, Witch, Wardrobe disappears if you have already read Magicians Nephew. In the interest of full disclosure, Lewis himself did say that they ought to be read in chronological order: Magicians Nephew; The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe; The Horse and His Boy; Prince Caspian; The Voyage of the Dawn Treader; The Silver Chair; The Last Battle) Prince Caspian by C. S. Lewis The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C. S. Lewis The Silver Chair by C. S. Lewis The Horse and His Boy by C. S. Lewis

The Magicians Nephew by C. S. Lewis The Last Battle by C. S. Lewis Till We Have Faces by C. S. Lewis Out of the Silent Planet by C. S. Lewis Perelandra by C. S. Lewis That Hideous Strength by C. S. Lewis (This book is very slow to get started and takes real dedication; it is really only appropriate for high school kids and older.) The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann Wyss (Prayer and thanks to God permeate this story of a familys survival on a desert island.)