In celebration of International Children’s Book Day (2nd April), I wanted to share some of my favourite children’s books. Despite being 26 years old, children’s books are some of my favourite books to read. The pure whimsy and joy that they contain brings me so much comfort and always helps motivate me to read if I’m in a slump. Whether you’re looking for a children’s book to read yourself or you have children or young people in your family, this post has a selection of wonderful children’s books for everyone 😊
Favourite classic: The Hobbit
Most of you reading this will have already read The Hobbit because it’s a true classic, but if you haven’t what are you waiting for?! It’s a fun adventure filled with humour and friendship. The episodic structure makes it perfect to read a chapter per night as a bed-time story for children or for yourself, if you’re looking for a nice, easy read before bed. Bilbo is one of my all time favourite characters (I named my dog after him!), his development is fantastic and Middle Earth remains the best, most complex and incredible fantasy universe ever created.
Favourite series: Nevermoor
Nevermoor recently featured in my favourite current fantasy series post and that pretty much sums up how much I love this series. It’s the perfect middle grade fantasy story with whimsical magic, beautiful friendships, interesting plot and exploration of themes effecting children around identity, belonging and self-discovery. This series gives me Disney’s Coco vibes crossed with Harry Potter. I’d recommend it for anyone and everyone.
Childhood favourite: Elmer
I remember reading this book over and over as a child, then when I was older I would read it to my little brother over and over too and he loved it just as much as I did. I love that this book teaches children that it’s okay to be different and the importance of self-acceptance and self-love. Despite this not being the intention of the author, I interpret Elmer as a metaphor for being LBGT+. Generally, this is such a lovely book for younger children which is uplifting and sweet with subtle but important messages within.
Current favourite: Winnie-the-Pooh
If you’ve read any of my previous posts, you already know how much I adore Winnie-the-Pooh. I will talk about this book every opportunity I get because it owns my heart. It’s been featured in my Every Book I Rated 5 Stars and Best and Worst Reads of 2020 posts. I love the characters, the friendship and the adventures that they share. Pooh is one of my favourite characters in fiction because he’s so funny and charming. It’s the ultimate comfort read and a must read for all children.
All time favourite: Noughts and Crosses
I owe a lot to this book because it reminded me how much I could love reading. I first read it when I was 15 years old during a period where I hadn’t read properly in at least four years and I binge read it. I ran back home from school at 3pm because I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. I’ve since re-read this book over five times and I will come back to it again and again. It holds such a special place in my heart and I feel very deeply connected to Callum and Sephy as characters. The themes of race that are portrayed in this book are so important and more relevant now than ever before in the context of Black Lives Matter.
Do you enjoy reading children’s books or do you have children in your life that you read to? What are some of your favourite children’s books? Share in the comments!
Stay safe, my lovelies and keep reading.
Rekindled Bibliophile 