As a father of two and after doing extensive research, I know how difficult it is to find the best children’s books for children. On my mission to sift through all the questionable recommendations and avoid the harmful ones, I’ve created a list of 100 of what I believe to be the best children’s books out there. With my experience of raising both of my kids, I am sure that these titles will bring fun and joy into their lives while still teaching them important values.
When I was a kid, I answered and submitted a math question in a children’s magazine I read. In the next issue, my name appeared in the magazine, and they sent me a book. I can never forget this memory, and I still keep the book that was sent.
As a father of two youngsters, I can confidently state that our best activity is reading books together! Not long ago, we set out with a big goal – reading 1000 books. We’ve acquired quite a library since then, and while we might not have reached our lofty target just yet, it certainly has made an impact on us – what had once been our wild imagination before taking off on so many thrilling adventures. And you don’t need to be told twice that having a good library at home makes such an immense difference in how kids explore and learn about the world too! Just look at this study; you’ll find many fascinating insights there!
So why are children’s books important?
Books remain an essential part of a child’s education and development. So much more than educational programs, children’s books can help develop particular brain areas for creative problem-solving, critical thinking, and imagination! While books take some reading time and effort to understand something, it also gives a child the freedom to dream and imagine in unique ways beyond what is being taught — something that cannot necessarily be replicated by watching TV or playing video games. Reading books provides children a unique opportunity to explore the world, sparking creativity that any other educational program cannot overshadow.
Why is the many list of the best children’s books on the internet fake?
Today’s internet is full of lists of the best children’s books which are often outdated and do not consider certain historical and cultural factors. While older classics may be great works, they may not always be the best fit for modern audiences due to language or outdated views. Furthermore, many of these titles warn that they contain values harmful to children, such as sexism or racism; however, no signs appear when looking at the lists circulated on the web. It is essential for parents and librarians to research individual titles to find out suitable works for children of different ages and backgrounds instead of relying on these artificial collections found online.
For example, there is a book called ‘Where the Wild Things Are’ and I can’t imagine this book being sold as a children’s book. How can the characters in the book be appropriate for a child when they are scary, even for me as an adult? How could Hansel and Gretel have been written for a child?
That’s why I made this list to end this situation on my own. I’ve listed 100 best children’s books that are truly exquisite both in terms of content and illustrations. However, I did not list the best children’s books by age below. I have listed the books that will be useful to my own children without following a certain order. You can click on the books and check Amazon reviews to see if they are suitable for your children.
Finally, what did Ovid say? “Nations that do not feed their grown minds with books are doomed to collapse.”
You may also want to see “30+ Best Inspiring Math Books for Children.”
Note: Below 100 best children's books are not listed, although I can't figure out why. There are 63 children books right now, and I'm trying to solve it. But 63 books is not less.
Patience, Miyuki is one of the best kids’ books to read to your little ones! It tells the story of young Miyuki, whose eager anticipation for spring leads her to try to rush a little flower into bloom – only to be encouraged by her wise grandfather to take a moment and enjoy the beauty of patience.
It teaches children that sometimes it takes time before you can get what you want, but if you practice waiting with grace and appreciation, you will experience joy! Patience, Miyuki is sure to leave kids fascinated and help them learn valuable lessons about nature and kindness.
A Life Made by Hand: The Story of Ruth Asawa is one of the best kids’ books out there! A creative, inspiring read about a remarkable artist and devoted activist, and it’s an absolute must-read for your little ones.
Ruth Asawa was not just an influential sculptor whose work is now collected in major museums worldwide. Still, she also had an appreciation for beauty in unexpected places – from the webs of spiders to the wings of insects to drops of water in her childhood farm garden.
Thanks to author Andrea D’Aquino’s engaging text and lush collages, A Life Made by Hand captures all the intricacies that made Ruth Asawa so unique. Young readers everywhere will be inspired to look closer at their world and make art with whatever comes their way!
The Atlas of Amazing Birds is one of the most entertaining and educational books for children today. Through vibrant watercolor illustrations and captivatingly told stories, your child will learn about bald eagles carrying nests heavier than two tons, elf owls staving off danger through playing dead, and Adélie penguins capable of up to six minutes of underwater breath-holding.
The book mirrors nature’s beautiful diversity by introducing a range of birds that migrate long distances, display impressive mating rituals, or survive in extreme environments. All in all, The Atlas of Amazing Birds is one of the best books for kids, offering an illuminating journey packed with fun facts about different species from all over the world.
Hello Lighthouse is one of the best children’s books. It’s sure to please young readers with a captivating window into the past as they watch days and seasons pass by. Through pictures, readers can follow the story of a lighthouse keeper and his family, who share each other’s daily lives inside a cozy dollhouse-like interior while out at sea, icebergs drift.
The artwork is truly breathtaking, and due to Sophie Blackall’s skillful storytelling, Hello Lighthouse is becoming quite a popular delight for all ages. Why not invite your child to step through the door of this iconic Lighthouse and join in on the adventure?
This Book Is a Planetarium is one of the best kids’ books out there! This interactive masterpiece includes pop-ups, science lessons, and awestruck readers! This book truly stands out from all other types of literature, as it offers more than just words on a page: it also has six fully functional tools.
Kelli Anderson’s enlightening text explains the science behind each tool, bringing a unique educational experience to every reader. So if you’re looking for books that will delight, amaze, and teach your children about the wonders of this world – This Book Is a Planetarium is worth checking out!
Once Upon An Alphabet is truly a one-of-a-kind book that you and your child won’t want to miss. With its distinctive take on the alphabet spanning 112 pages, it’s not only undeniably creative but also very funny and wholly irresistible for kids.
Every letter of the alphabet is illustrated with a distinct story and set of characters – from Astronauts to Bridges to Cups – all of which create an unforgettable experience that you and your little one will cherish for years to come. So if you’re looking for one of the best children’s books around, Once Upon An Alphabet is guaranteed to exceed your expectations!
The Day the Crayons Quit is a delightful tale about young Duncan, who discovers why his crayons have decided to quit when he opens up his beloved box of colors. This humorous romp through crayon activism is easily one of the best books from kids’ lit today, and any parent looking for something special to share with their child will find it in The Day The Crayons Quit.
The book encourages readers to think creatively and share their perspectives while offering inspiring insight into the power of working together. More importantly, The Day The Crayons Quit is an amazingly funny story that parents and children alike can appreciate—it’s sure to leave you delighted, wise, and laughing!
Women in Science celebrates the achievements of fifty remarkable women in STEM fields. From ancient times to present day, these women have made significant contributions to their fields. Each incredible woman is given a double page spread with a stylised portrait, infoboxes filled with interesting facts, and a page of text outlining her accomplishments and providing a brief biography.
These inspiring women not only made groundbreaking discoveries and advancements, but they also overcame countless barriers. They were often denied access to education and jobs simply because they were women or black in a racially segregated America.
The author, Ignotofsky, has taken care to include a diverse range of women in her book. While the focus is primarily on American women, readers will find a wide variety of nationalities, ethnic backgrounds, orientations, and social classes represented. This ensures that young girls can find someone who looks like them, which is truly wonderful.
What sets this book apart from others is its inclusion of lesser-known women who were equally pioneering and brilliant. While Marie Curie is featured, there are many other remarkable women who deserve recognition.
One standout inclusion is Rachel Carson, known for her environmental classic Silent Spring. Carson was not only a scientist but also a poet. Her work inspired a global environmental movement, making her an influential figure worth celebrating.
Another fascinating addition is film star Hedy Lamarr, who invented a radio frequency spread-hopping method that laid the foundation for GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth technologies we rely on today. It’s amazing to think that her invention has had such a lasting impact.
Women in Science is not only informative but visually stunning. The illustrations by Ignofotsky, a graphic designer, are captivating and draw the eye. The book is filled with a wealth of information presented in a clear and concise manner. It’s a book that you can spend hours exploring.
I highly recommend Women in Science. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in learning about the remarkable women who have shaped the world of science.
If you’re looking for a fun and imaginative bedtime story, look no further than Nina Laden’s If I Had a Little Dream. This sweet tale offers kids the chance to fly away on a magical journey that will spark their imaginations and show them just how amazing the world around us can be.
Its positive message about appreciating what we have If I Had a Little Dream is firmly entrenched as one of the best children’s books. Your child will be swept up in its lyrical narrative, insightful illustrations, and upbeat tone – giving it an unforgettable read!
Home explores many different shapes and sizes that home can take, encouraging kids to think outside their own house in the country or their apartment in the city. Kids will be drawn in by Carson Ellis’ award-winning illustrations, making Home one of the best kid’s books available right now.
Home opens up a conversation about what home means, asking deep questions without being too heavy. Home offers an interesting and unique exploration of the meaning of home that children and adults will surely enjoy.
