As children, we hold dear memories of the books we read and shared. Characters like big friendly giants, honey-loving bears, hungry caterpillars, and iron men filled the vibrant imaginary worlds of our youth. Each of us has that one book that made us laugh and cry, the one we revisit time and time again. Like treasured keepsakes, we pass these stories on to our own children, each book carrying its own magic. However, it’s impossible to include everything in this list. I’m certain that every reader will notice missing favorites and question the order. There are personal preferences I’ve omitted and numerous 20th- and 21st-century writers that I would have liked to feature.
This list isn’t meant to be a definitive ranking but rather an overview and guide. You’ll recognize many titles, while some lesser-known ones deserve more attention. I’ve taken into account both influence and originality, but above all, the books listed here have endured the tests of time, taste, and most importantly, readers. Each one, regardless of publication date, can still captivate and delight children today as much as it did in the past.
It is my hope that this list encourages adult readers to revisit their childhood shelves, rediscover forgotten gems, and experience wonder and magic once more. So, are you ready to begin this literary journey?
1. The Alice books by Lewis Carroll (19th century)
Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass are exceptional works of children’s literature. Written by the mathematician Charles Dodgson under the pseudonym Lewis Carroll, these books combine logic, humor, and inventive fantasy to create enchanting worlds that continue to captivate readers.
2. Kinder- und Hausmarchen (‘Nursery and Household Tales’) by The Brothers Grimm (19th century)
The Brothers Grimm’s collection of more than 200 fairy tales has been incredibly influential. While some elements were altered for a conservative audience, the tales still resonate with both children and adults. From well-known stories like The Frog Prince to lesser-known gems like Hans my Hedgehog, these tales offer depth and enchantment.
3. Fairy Tales by Hans Christian Andersen (19th century)
Hans Christian Andersen’s literary fairy tales explore themes of loss, love, and longing with beautiful prose. Stories like The Snow Queen and The Little Mermaid are poignant and enchanting, offering solace and wonder to readers of all ages.
4. The One Thousand and One Nights by Anon. (Folk tales)
The tales Scheherazade tells her husband in The One Thousand and One Nights are full of passion, revenge, and wonder. Stories like Aladdin, Ali Baba, and Sinbad the Sailor have captured the imagination of readers for centuries with their opulence and intrigue.
5. Peter and Wendy by J M Barrie (1911)
J M Barrie’s Peter Pan, whether in play or novel form, is a beloved tale
1. “The Pilgrim’s Progress from This World to That Which Is to Come” by John Bunyan (1678)
Once a beloved book among children, this classic is now sadly overlooked by both adults and scholars. However, its allegorical richness and beauty remain unparalleled. Its humorous and colloquial style makes it still accessible to readers. Journeying from the Slough of Despond to the Celestial City, it is filled with memorable places and characters.
2. “The Narnia series” by C.S. Lewis (mid-20th century)
The finest children’s books possess a transformative power that resonates beyond the pages. Many can vividly recall their initial adventure into Narnia and the urge to find a way through the back of the wardrobe into that enchanting world. Lewis’s brilliance in giving voice to animals and the thrilling knightly quests of the children captivate readers.
3. “Northern Lights” by Philip Pullman (1995)
Philip Pullman’s creation of daemons in a richly imagined alternate world ruled by a sinister religious authority endures as a remarkable contribution to children’s literature. His exploration of cosmic themes and boundless imagination creates a mesmerizing narrative, with Lyra Belacqua emerging as a compelling and enduring heroine.
4. “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien (1937)
In the seemingly simple yet peculiar world of “The Hobbit,” the unassuming Bilbo Baggins embarks on a remarkable journey with dwarves and finds unexpected rewards as a thief. The charm of the hobbits’ realm blends with the excitement of Bilbo’s entangled adventures, often leading readers to the epic sequel, “The Lord of the Rings.”
5. “The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame (1908)
Debates persist over whether “The Wind in the Willows” truly belongs to children’s literature or serves as a source of solace for downtrodden souls. Regardless, the gentle escapades of Mole, Ratty, and Toad reflect a lyrical appreciation for the joys of rural life, offering a delightful narrative.
6. “The Once and Future King” by T.H. White (1958)
Enchanting, wise, and witty, this collection of Arthurian tales reimagines the legend of King Arthur with remarkable insight. White’s portrayal of Arthur as the young Wart, an ordinary boy thrust into extraordinary circumstances, alongside the endearing Merlin, deserves renewed recognition for its timeless charm.
7. “Five Children and It” by E. Nesbit (1902)
Representing the Golden Age of children’s fiction, Nesbit’s whimsical tale features the grumpy Psammead, a wish-granting sand fairy whose adventures offer a world free from oppressive evil. The siblings discover that magic does not always provide easy solutions, adding depth to this imaginative narrative.
8. “The Jungle Book” by Rudyard
15. The headmistress in Us, one of literature’s most memorable villains.
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963)
Maurice Sendak’s picture book unveils new layers with each read. Notice how the illustrations expand along with Max’s imaginative adventures, how the poetic and concise text interacts with the visuals, and how Max faces and overcomes his anger towards his mother through his journey within himself. The artwork is also enchanting.
16. The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf (1936)
Initially appearing as a charming tale about a little bull who detests fighting, this story evolves into a powerful fable about societal expectations of boys. Instead of embracing masculine violence, Ferdinand prefers to relax under a cork tree. The illustrations capturing Spanish matadors, picadors, and their arenas are remarkably evocative.
17. The Wolves of Willoughby Chase by Joan Aiken (1962)
This book encompasses all the elements of classic children’s literature: absent parents, a scheming adult, grave injustices, and the allure of winter and wolves. Set in an alternative historical period ruled by James III, young Bonnie’s inheritance is seized by a menacing governess. Children will rejoice when she gets her just deserts.
18. The Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula Le Guin (1968)
The recent passing of Ursula Le Guin, at the age of 88, has drawn fresh attention to her literary works. In this tale, Ged, a boy with dark skin hailing from the goat herding island of Gont, displays extraordinary abilities and embarks on a quest to become a wizard. His journey is epic, imbued with depth and a lasting sense of peculiarity.
19. Tom’s Midnight Garden by Philippa Pearce (1958)
Esteemed as a standout in children’s literature, this novel follows Tom, who is sent to stay with his aunt and uncle. When the clock strikes thirteen, he discovers a magical garden and meets a girl named Hatty from a different era. Emotionally resonant, this story leaves a profound impact on young readers.
20. The Ghost of Thomas Kempe by Penelope Lively (1973)
Penelope Lively once stated that “children need to feel that we exist in a continuous world that extends behind and ahead of us.” Her writing encompasses a broad spectrum, and this Carnegie-winning novel about a haunted house captures a sense of eeriness and captivation.
21. The Harry Potter series by JK Rowling (late 20th century)
Introduced over two decades ago with Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, J.K. Rowling’s series surged into worldwide consciousness. Moving from the initial wonder and whimsy of the early books to a darker tone, the septet evolved into a captivating saga and a cultural phenomenon.
22. The Scarecrows by Robert Westall (1981)
Choosing The Scarecrows over The Machine Gunners,
Title: Exploring Timeless Classics in Children’s Literature
Diving into the enchanting world of children’s literature is like stepping into a time machine that transports readers to different eras and realms. From the mischievous Molesworth to the daring adventures of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, these timeless classics continue to captivate readers of all ages.
Ronald Searle’s satirical sketches bring to life the chaotic world of Molesworth, where schoolmasters are deluded and schoolboys are disobedient. The cynicism and humor in Molesworth’s badly spelled musings offer a glimpse into a world filled with vanity and hypocrisy, making readers feel like part of a secret school gang.
In Russell Hoban’s “The Mouse and His Child,” a clockwork mouse and his child embark on a poignant journey after being cast out of a toy shop. Unlike the tale of Toy Story, where toys serve their purpose obediently, this story explores the resilience and autonomy of discarded toys as they carve out their own destiny.
Malorie Blackman’s “Noughts and Crosses” presents a thought-provoking alternate reality where power dynamics are turned on their head. With a gripping inter-racial love story at its core, Blackman challenges societal norms and sparks conversations about privilege, identity, and love.
Frances Hardinge’s “The Lie Tree” immerses readers in a meticulously crafted 19th-century world, where a young female protagonist navigates intrigue and mystery. Hardinge’s eloquent prose and vivid imagination make this novel a standout in the literary landscape, offering readers a compelling and empowering narrative.
Cressida Cowell’s “How to Train Your Dragon” follows the misadventures of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, a lovable misfit in a world of Vikings and dragons. Cowell’s whimsical storytelling and vibrant characters make this tale a delightful read for children and adults alike, inviting readers to embark on a thrilling journey of friendship and bravery.
Beatrix Potter’s classic “The Tale of Peter Rabbit” charms readers with its endearing tale of a mischievous rabbit’s escapades. Potter’s keen observations of nature and playful prose create a timeless story that continues to capture the hearts of readers, young and old.
Thomas Hughes’ “Tom Brown’s Schooldays” offers a poignant glimpse into the world of boarding school life, setting the stage for the beloved school story genre. Through its engaging narrative and memorable characters, Hughes’ novel has inspired generations of readers and writers, shaping the landscape of children’s literature.
As we reflect on these literary treasures, it is evident that the power of storytelling transcends time and age, weaving together a tapestry of imagination, emotion, and wisdom. Each of these works invites readers to explore new worlds, challenge societal norms, and embark on unforgettable adventures.
Philip Womack, a distinguished author and educator, continues to enrich the world of children’s literature through
