Enjoy the benefits of reading to your child with this list of 10 classic children’s books and children’s authors that include the best children’s books of all time.
Do you have preschoolers and kindergarteners who love board books and colourful storybooks for kids? This list of stories to read from the best children’s books for kids will help you enjoy the benefits of reading for kids and create a lifetime of memories.
If you’re wondering which stories to read to older kids that also make engaging storybooks for adults, this list of 10 classic children’s books and children’s authors will help you and your child rediscover timeless stories from the best children’s books of all time.
#1. The Little Prince
The Little Prince is a charming novella by French aristocrat, writer, and aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupéry follows a young prince who visits various planets in space including the Earth, and addresses themes of loneliness, friendship, love, and loss.
Despite being a children’s book, The Little Prince makes deep observations about life, adults, and human nature.
#2. Jonathan Livingston Seagull
Although Jonathan Livingston Seagull is not strictly a children’s book, this motivational fable by Richard Bach will teach older kids inspirational lessons about the importance of love, respect, freedom, and forgiveness.
Read it to your kids to implant the message of seeking a higher purpose in life, even when circumstances seem inconvenient. Of all the novels to read to kids (and adults), you’ll find this the most inspirational.
#3.White Fang
If your child and you love animals, this is one of the best novels to read to your kids. White Fang is a ferocious and magnificent creature who is part wolf, part dog.
This classic adventure story by Jack London keenly observes the extraordinary working of one of nature’s greatest gifts to its creatures – the power to adapt. It helps us see and feel the rhythms and patterns of life in the animal kingdom and mankind.
#4. The Velveteen Rabbit
The Velveteen Rabbit is the endearing story of a toy rabbit who loves a boy so much it eventually becomes real. This classic children’s book by Margery Williams has captured the hearts of generation after generation.
Its story of transformation and redemption through a child’s unwavering love continues to delight readers of all ages.
#5. Harold And The Purple Crayon
Harold And The Purple Crayon is an imagination-sparking picture book by children’s book creator, Crockett Johnson, tells the story of Harold who decides to go for a walk in the moonlight armed only with an oversized purple crayon.
Harold draws himself a landscape full of wonder and excitement travelling through woods and across seas and past dragons before returning to bed, safe and sound. This charming story is full of funny twists and surprises and shows just how far your imagination can take you.
#6. Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tales
Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tales are grounded in the real and often focus on the significance of small or overlooked things. His fairy tale collection is one of the best children’s books you can get for your kids.
His stories like The Little Mermaid, The Red Shoes, and The Steadfast Tin Soldier, have entranced and bewitched millions of readers, adults and children alike, and will do the same for you and your kids.
#7. Enid Blyton Books
Besides the list of stories to read to kids above, I just can’t leave out beloved children’s author, Enid Blyton’s books, which are a staple for any kid’s library. I consider her series of books for kids to be some of the best fiction books of all time for children.
Some of her best storybook series for kids include:
- The Magic Faraway Tree
- The Wishing Chair Collection
- The Famous Five
- The Secret Seven
- The Adventure Series
Enid Blyton’s Faraway Tree Series
Enid Blyton’s Faraway Tree series is a timeless classic that continues to enchant readers of all ages. Set in an enchanting world filled with whimsy and adventure, the series follows the magical journeys of Joe, Beth, and Frannie as they discover the wonders of the Faraway Tree and its fantastical inhabitants.
One of the most charming aspects of the series is Blyton’s vivid imagination, which brings to life a plethora of unique and delightful characters, such as Moon-Face, Silky the Fairy, and the grumpy Saucepan Man.
Each new land at the top of the Faraway Tree offers a new adventure, whether it’s the Land of Topsy-Turvy, the Land of Do-As-You-Please, or the Land of Take-What-You-Want.
The stories are entertaining and impart valuable lessons about friendship, kindness, and the importance of imagination. Blyton’s storytelling is engaging and magical, capturing the hearts of readers and transporting them to a world where anything is possible.
The Faraway Tree series is a delightful read for children and adults alike, filled with whimsy, adventure, and timeless charm. Enid Blyton’s imaginative storytelling and lovable characters make this series a true classic that continues to captivate readers around the world.
Enid Blyton’s Wishing-Chair Series
Enid Blyton’s Wishing-Chair series is a delightful collection of stories that spark the imagination and take readers on magical adventures. The series follows the adventures of two children, Mollie and Peter, who discover a magical chair that grows wings and takes them to fantastical lands.
One of the most enchanting aspects of the series is the magical world that Blyton creates, filled with talking creatures, mischievous pixies, and enchanted lands. Each adventure is unique and exciting, as the children encounter new challenges and make new friends along the way.
The Wishing Chair itself is a fascinating concept, as it grants wishes to those who sit in it. This leads to many fun and sometimes chaotic adventures, as the children’s wishes often have unexpected consequences.
Throughout the series, Blyton weaves in themes of friendship, kindness, and the power of imagination. The stories are not only entertaining but also carry valuable lessons for young readers.
The Wishing Chair series is a charming and enchanting collection of stories that continue to captivate readers of all ages. Enid Blyton’s imaginative storytelling and whimsical characters make this series a timeless classic that is sure to be enjoyed for generations to come.
#8. Panchatantra Stories
Panchatantra Stories is a collection of all-time favorite children’s stories from the Indian storytelling tradition that teaches us lessons about wisdom, courage, and bravery.
Written in simple language that kids will easily understand, this book for kids is an enjoyable reading experience for parents and children.
#9. Diary Of A Wimpy Kid Books
The Diary of a Wimpy Kid series has made Jeff Kinney one of the bestselling children’s authors on the planet.
All Diary Of A Wimpy Kid books in the series is great for kids over 12 in middle school, who can relate to the adventures and struggles of Greg Heffley, his friends, and family, especially his big brother, Rodrick.
#10. Julia Donaldson’s Books
Julia Donaldson’s books are compelling and full of wit and imagination. Some of her best stories to read aloud include Gruffallo and Gruffalo’s, Monkey Puzzle, Paper Dolls, and Room on the Broom. They are great books for kids aged 3 to 5 years so your preschoolers will love them.
Besides improving their cognitive abilities, reading to your kids can improve their English communication skills and many other skills too. You can’t go wrong with this list for your kids of the most popular books of all time.
