Raise your hand if this rings a bell: Hiding under the covers, flashlight in hand, with one eye on the page and the other on the bedroom door. Even though book-reading was a favorite nightly ritual at our house, I was a kid OBSESSED.
We’re taking a step back in time to celebrate childhood this week (visit all of our ’80s-themed projects and activities), and I couldn’t let it pass by without sharing a post featuring my absolute, all-time favorite ’80s pastime…reading!
I was the kind of kid who missed meals to read, and when my face wasn’t buried in a book, I was re-enacting favorite storylines, becoming the characters, or watching something book-related on TV – any Megan Follows Anne of Green Gables fans out there…??
I could still happily lose myself in a Reading Rainbow narration by Sir LeVar Burton (I don’t think he’s officially been knighted, but in this house, we endorse it).
Click below to play the song that saw me through my entire childhood – I can still sing the whole thing perfectly at the drop of a hat.
In the spirit of the week, I made an *abbreviated* list of my personal favorites from back in the day– some well-known, others forgotten – ALL great books.
Heads up, fellow readers – some of our favorite childhood books (along with a whole host of fantastic new titles) are being banned at alarming rates! Help your kids embrace their right to read with our banned book reading challenges – free printables, book lists, activities, resource links, and more.
The lovely illustration at the top of this post is part of a series called “Ideal Bookshelf” by artist Jane Mount – you can check out all of her bookshelf prints here)!
Our Favorite Childhood Books:
Note: We prefer to shop locally or use what we have at home, but this list contains Woodpeckers Crafts, Etsy, Blick Art Materials, Bookshop.org and/or Amazon affiliate links for reference. As affiliates (and Amazon Associates), we make a small commission on qualifying purchases.*
Childhood Picture Books We Still Love
Anno’s Counting Book and Anno’s Counting House by Mitsumasa Anno
Both books are visual treasures with an innovative approach to teaching numbers and counting, using intricate and subtly detailed illustrations that change with the turn of each page, inviting readers to observe, explore, and learn.
Roar and More by Karla Kuskin
This delightful book is filled with rhythm and rhymes, showcasing the sounds animals make through imaginative verses and dynamic illustrations, fostering a love for language and sounds in young readers.
The Graphic Alphabet by David Pelletier
A marvel of design, this book explores the alphabet in ways that are visually striking and creatively inspiring, fostering a love for typography and graphic design in readers from a young age.
Simon’s Book by Henrik Drescher
This whimsically illustrated book brims with creativity, blurring the boundaries between reality and imagination, inviting children into a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary.
Miss Nelson is Missing by Harry Allard
A classroom favorite, this story merges humor, mystery, and the importance of appreciating those who guide us, creating a narrative that has delighted generations of children.
George and Martha by James Marshall
his series explores the dynamics of friendship with gentle humor and emotional depth, showcasing two endearing hippos who navigate their relationship’s ups and downs.
The King Who Rained by Fred Gwynne
An ingenious book that playfully explores homonyms, inviting children to look at language in fun, new, and exciting ways through imaginative illustrations and humorous interpretations.
Harriet’s Halloween Candy by Nancy Carlson
This story of a young girl learning the valuable lesson of sharing is a relatable tale, filled with charming illustrations that capture the anticipation and excitement of Halloween.
The Jolly Postman by Janet and Allan Ahlberg
This interactive book is a journey into whimsy, with letters to open and stories within stories, fostering a sense of joy and wonder in the act of storytelling.
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
A timeless tale that captures a child’s wonder at the world covered in snow, The Snowy Day utilizes bold, distinctive illustrations that have cemented its place as a beloved classic.
Strega Nona and Pancakes for Breakfast by Tomie dePaola
These captivating tales immerse readers in a world filled with Italian folklore and magic, with charming, folk-style illustrations and themes of caution and kindness.
Black and White by David Macaulay
This visually complex and imaginative book encourages readers to see beyond the obvious and appreciate the interplay of narrative and design.
Round Trip by Ann Jonas
This innovative book offers a visual journey where the narrative twists and turns along with the illustrations, challenging readers’ perspectives and encouraging them to view things from different angles.
People and Rain by Peter Spier
These books reveal the richness of everyday life through deeply detailed illustrations and sparse text, encouraging readers to delve into each image and discover their own stories.
Doctor De Soto by William Steig
This clever tale of a mouse dentist outwitting a fox is a blend of humor, suspense, and ingenious problem-solving, making it a beloved classic.
A Chair for My Mother by Vera B. Williams
This tender story of love, loss, and resilience showcases the importance of family and community through beautiful, warm illustrations and a poignant narrative.
Ira Sleeps Over by Bernard Waber
A relatable story that tackles a child’s anxiety about sleepovers and independence with empathy and warmth, offering a comforting message about friendship and acceptance.
Mouse Soup by Arnold Lobel
This clever and funny book is a charming mix of wit, wisdom, and gentle life lessons, told through a series of endearing animal tales.
Island of the Skog by Steven Kellogg
A vibrant, adventurous tale that imparts lessons about fear, understanding, and the power of cooperation, using detailed illustrations and captivating narratives that make this an enduring favorite.
The Frog Prince, Continued, and The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka
These retellings offer clever twists on traditional fairy tales, challenging assumptions and engaging readers with humor and wit, while also encouraging them to view stories from different perspectives.
Weslandia by Paul Fleischman
This engaging tale of creativity, independence, and self-discovery fosters an appreciation for individuality and innovation, told through a captivating narrative and lush illustrations.
The Relatives Came by Cynthia Rylant
A warm, sentimental book that captures the joy and chaos of family reunions, underlining the importance of family ties and traditions through rich, vibrant illustrations and a heartfelt narrative.
Just A Dream by Chris Van Allsburg
This thought-provoking tale challenges readers to consider the impact of our actions on the environment, offering a compelling narrative and striking illustrations that make a lasting impression.
It’s MY Birthday! by Pat Hutchins
This lively tale of a little girl’s anticipation and impatience towards her upcoming birthday, featuring vivid illustrations and a humorous narrative, effectively captures the joys and trials of childhood.
The Pain and the Great One by Judy Blume
This relatable story vividly portrays sibling dynamics, with each sibling’s perspective shedding light on the common misunderstandings and inevitable bond between siblings.
Bedtime for Frances by Russell Hoban
A timeless bedtime tale that captures a child’s resistance to sleep and a parent’s gentle persistence, featuring charmingly detailed illustrations that evoke a sense of comfort and familiarity.
The Eleventh Hour by Graeme Base
This intricate and richly detailed book combines the thrill of a mystery with a visual feast, offering readers the joy of problem-solving and discovery through vivid, elaborate illustrations.
Bea and Mr. Jones by Amy Schwartz
This humorous tale of role reversal explores the monotony of adult life and the simplicity of childhood, offering a whimsical narrative and delightful illustrations that resonate with readers of all ages.
Tuesday by David Wiesner
A nearly wordless book that encourages readers to delve into their imaginations, this magical, dream-like narrative features breathtaking, detailed illustrations that carry the story.
The Little Island and The Summer Noisy Book by Margaret Wise Brown
These books capture the essence of childhood wonder and curiosity about nature, using lyrical narratives and charming illustrations that evoke a sense of peace and exploration.
Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney
An inspiring tale of a woman making the world more beautiful showcases themes of travel, purpose, and conservation through captivating illustrations and a narrative that spans generations.
No Jumping on the Bed by Tedd Arnold
This hilariously chaotic story addresses the age-old rule of not jumping on beds, told through a series of escalating, comical events and vivid, energetic illustrations.
Stringbean’s Trip to the Shining Sea by Vera B. Williams
A heartwarming travelogue-style narrative that uses postcards and letters to tell the story of a memorable family trip, exploring themes of adventure, discovery, and the beauty of shared experiences.
Christmastime in New York City and The Inside-Outside Book of New York City by Roxie Munro
These intricately illustrated books capture the spirit of New York City through different perspectives and seasons, offering readers a tour of the city’s iconic landmarks.
This Old House by Leo Hartas
This nostalgic book offers a cross-section of a family home filled with details and surprises, presenting a visual journey through the years, sparking imagination and memories.
Imogene’s Antlers by David Small
This playful, whimsical story is filled with humor and warmth as it follows the tale of a young girl who wakes up one day with antlers, making readers ponder the joys and challenges of being different.
Ed Emberley’s Drawing Book: Make a World by Ed Emberley
This interactive book empowers children to create their own illustrated universe, offering a wide range of drawing lessons that break down complex objects into simple shapes, nurturing creativity and artistic confidence from a young age.
Childhood Chapter Books We Still Love
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
This enchanting tale combines elements of adventure, fantasy, and wit in an exploration of the realms of Knowledge and Wisdom, ingeniously illustrating the power and joy of learning and the importance of not taking things for granted.
The Borrowers by Mary Norton
This imaginative series dives into a hidden world of tiny beings living unseen amongst humans, encapsulating childhood curiosity and wonder, whilst simultaneously exploring themes of survival, belonging, and resilience.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson
This humorous and heartwarming tale of the unconventional Herdman siblings’ involvement in a traditional Christmas pageant offers an unconventional perspective on acceptance, change, and the true spirit of the holidays.
Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar
This wildly inventive collection of stories introduces a unique, topsy-turvy school full of eccentric students and teachers, combining humor and absurdity to make readers question what is normal and celebrate the extraordinary.
From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
This adventurous and insightful tale explores the themes of independence, self-discovery, and the value of art and history through a captivating journey set in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Anastasia Krupnik by Lois Lowry
This series centers on the perceptive and endearing Anastasia, showcasing her growth, family life, and adolescent tribulations with humor, wit, and a depth of understanding that resonates with readers across generations.
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle
This seminal science fiction novel weaves together concepts of time, space, and love, embarking readers on a journey across dimensions that is as much about the universal struggle between good and evil as it is about the strength of familial bonds.
The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin
A suspenseful and intricately plotted whodunit, this book intertwines a vast array of characters and clues in a masterful mystery about inheritance, competition, and uncovering the truth.
The Babysitter’s Club Series by Ann M. Martin
This beloved series of books explores themes of friendship, entrepreneurship, and growing up, creating relatable narratives that connect with young readers’ real-life experiences and dilemmas.
Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White
A timeless tale of friendship, loss, and love, this classic children’s book weaves together the unlikely bond between a pig and a spider, revealing profound truths about life and death in a narrative that touches readers of all ages.
Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt
This magical, thought-provoking tale explores the concept of immortality and the cyclical nature of life through a captivating narrative that balances the allure of eternal life with the inevitable progression of time.
The Best of John Bellairs
This collection presents a range of eerie and enchanting tales filled with magic, mystery, and adventure, transporting readers into a world where the ordinary and supernatural seamlessly intertwine.
Children’s Book List Links
If you love the throwback childhood book list but craving something more current, there are tons of great places to find fantastic book suggestions in list form…
More Reading Links to Help Encourage Children’s Literacy
And just for fun, I thought I’d also share some places I’ve run across that are great online/app resources to help kids get excited about reading:
- Reading Rainbow is back as a subscription app!
- Little Free Diverse Libraries on Instagram
- Interactive story games for kids through PBS
- Celebs read to your kids!
- Kids can create, print, read and share stories through Storybird
- A National Geographic online book club with reviews by kids
- Give books or get books through his amazing non-profit
*A note about affiliate links: We strive to use simple, earth-friendly supplies that can be purchased locally whenever we can, but sometimes we find the best universally available options, a rare eco-friendly find, or a niche product only available on Blick Art Materials, Amazon, Etsy, or Woodpeckers Crafts. When included in our supply list, these products are affiliate links, and if you click through to make a purchase we receive a small commission that helps us re-order these supplies!
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