For a very long time, I have been collecting children’s book – since I was a child myself. I’m so grateful I held on to my most precious and favorite children’s books! Since my child is also an avid reader, I’ve become obsessed with finding the best and most amazing books. We educate using Waldorf methods and are always looking for mindful, lovely messages as well as stunning illustrations throughout our books.
A few years ago, my daughter and I started jotting down our favorite children’s books. What started as a tiny list quickly snowballed into… well, this! And yes, we’re secretly kind of proud of ourselves.
This list is ever growing!
If you have recommendations for my child and I, please comment below!
Enjoy.
OUR FAVORITE
Picture Books
A collection of incredible picture books that we’ve enjoyed over the years.
Recommended for ages 2+ depending on language level and content.
Because Amelia Smiled
by David Ezra Stein
One of my favorite books about paying it forward with simply a smile… and how far that smile can travel.
black is brown is tan
by Arnold Adoff
A, poetic story about a brown-skinned mama, the color of chocolate milk and pumpkin pie. White-skinned daddy, not the color of milk or snow, but light with pinks and tiny tans. And their two children, the beautiful colors of both.
Ordinary Mary’s Extraordinary Deed
by Emily Pearson
Imagine if every person paid kindness forward to 5 people? Well, this little girl started with blueberries. The ripple effect of Mary’s kindness travels through the world.
The Flower Garden
by Even Bunting
A whimsical story about a child who creates a wonderful present for her mother with her father’s help.
When I Was Young in the Mountains by Cynthia Rylant
A sweet story about living in the mountains long ago with no electricity or water.
Free Fall
by David Wiesner
A very unique book with no words, but plenty to talk about. A boy falls asleep and dreams into his book.
The Paperboy
by Dav Pilkey
One of my favorites that may bring you back to the days of delivering papers. It’s a sweet book with a Caldecott.
A River
by Marc Martin
Travel with this story, down a river, through the jungle and then back again.
The Storm Book
by Charlotte Zolotow
A beautifully illustrated book that has a lovely story!
Sheep in a Jeep
by Nancy E. Shaw
What happenes when sheep try to drive a jeep? Let’s see.
Chipmunk Song
by Joanne Ryder
What happenes when sheep try to drive a jeep? Let’s see.
Mary’s Tiger
by Rex Harley
A lovely story about a drawing that comes to life.
Toy Boat
by Randall de Sève
We’ve all had that special toy… and then it gets lost… and then it finds its way back.
The Pout Pout Fish
by by Deborah Diesen
3 years later, I’m STILL chanting the main chorus of this book! I love it.
There is a moment in this book when one fish kisses the other fish without permission. Please note this. It can be used as a teachable moment or it might make you uncomfortable. Please check it out first.
Each Peach Pear Plum
by Janet and Allan Ahlberg
A classic that I grew up with and know every word to. If you don’t have it, you should.
The Tickle Tree
by Chae Strathie
A fun story with imaginative words and fantasticly crazy illustrations.
The Wizard of Oz
by L. Frank Baum
One of the most amazing illustrations of this classic story I have ever seen. It is one of most special books!
Amy the Dancing Bear
by Carly Simon
A dear friend gifted this book to me… it resonates so much about the connection between mother and child.
The Winter Solstice
by Ellen Jackson
A must have for solstice time! A lovely journey through stories and celebrations of solstice.
How Do You Wokka-Wokka?
by Elizabeth Bluemle
A fun rhyming book about dancing through the streets in the city.
Lilacs for Mother’s Day
by Helen McCarthy
A local author here tells a beautiful story about Lilacs, Rochester’s city flower, in this lovely story about a boy who grows up.
Edward the Emu
by Sheena Knowles
Some of the most beautiful illustrations take you through the story of an Emu who is searching for his identity.
Pumpkin Pumpkin
by Jeanne Titherington
A story about a boy growing a pumpkin, gardening and collecting seeds.
Elephants Never Forget!
by Anushka Ravishankar
Sure an elephant can be raised by buffalo! Beautiful, linocut illustrations with a lovely story.
Jack’s Garden
by HenryCole
A lovely book about Jack, his garden and the bugs!
The Night Gardener
by Terry Fan
The MOST precious book about a boy and the Night Gardener. The illustrations will bring you to dream land for sure!
Every Little Thing
by Bob Marley and Cedella Marley
The name says it all. Will you sing this book to your child? I hope so!
I Like Myself
by Karen Beaumont
I like myself. I’m glad I’m me. There’s no one else I’d rather be. A must have for all children.
Grampa Green
by Jane Smith
A boy takes us on a journey through his Grampa Green’s garden and his life.
Linnea in Monet’s Garden
The perfect way to explore what Monet’s garden might have been like! We love this book.
The Napping House
by Audrey Wood
A poetic story that stems from classics. It is both funny and sweet!
Fire flies!
by Julie Brinckloe
A sweet story of a boy and his friends catching and releasing fireflies.
Imagine a City
by Elise Hurt
A whimsically, beautifully sketched story of a child who is in a world without edges…
The Scarecrow
by Beth Ferry
Do you ever wonder how a scarecrow feels? How he feels when the crows fly away? Beautiful illustrations here in this lovely story!
How Does My Garden Grow?
by Gerda Muller
A child being raised in the city visits her grandfather in the countryside and learns all about gardening in this sweet story for every child who loves to garden!
Plant the Tiny Seed
by Christie Matheson
A sweet, interactive book for young children that help them learn how to grow a seed.
The Dot
by Peter H. Reynolds
A beautiful story between an Art teacher and a student who didn’t know what to draw. The impact teachers can have on students is powerful.
Breathe and Be: A Book of Mindfulness Poems
by Kate Coombs
A lovely book that reminds children to be in the moment, stay true to themselves and breathe.
The Maggie B
by Irene Haas
What happens when you wish for a boat, just for you, named after you? What a lovely adventure.
Blueberries for Sal
by Robert McCloskey
Sal and her mother meet a bear… a beautiful story I have enjoyed for a long time!
What do you do with a chance?
by Kobi Yamada
A sweetly written book about a child coming in contact with a chance… and how he let it pass and what he did with the next ones that came by. The illustrations and the metaphors and stunning.
Flashlight
by Lizi Boyd
A wordless adventure of a book with cutouts and sweet illustration about being in your tent and outside with a flashlight..
Can’t Sit Still
by Karen Elisa Lotz
All parents must have this book!
A Seed a Flower a Minute, an Hour by Joan W. Blos
A book for very young children that is so sweetly illustrated. It combines one word with a beautiful visual.
The Sun Seed
by Jan Schubert
The journey of a seed at the beginning of spring.
Crab Moon
by Ruth Horowitz
A sweet story about a mother and son who travel to watch the horseshoe crabs migrate.
Peter’s Old House
by Elsa Beskow
A wonderful journey into a little village, a family and it is, as is everything with Elsa Beskow, beautifully written and illustrated.
Amigo
by Byrd Baylor
The story of a boy and his wish for a dog that they can’t have because of finances. This poetic, rhyming story gives good insight into what might be in a boy’s mind.
Seeds and Trees: A children’s book about the power of words
by Brandon Walden
This book explores their effects on feelings and emotions. And it does so through the journey of two different seeds – and the power of words.
Roxaboxen
by Alice McLerran
A journey to a special place where children will be children, imaginations, exploration and the growth of Roxaboxen.
The Camping Trip: The Adventures of Pettson & Findus
by Sven Nordqvist
A funny story of camping in which Findus finds a tent in the attic, Pettson starts imagining what it would be like to go hiking by the lake… and then the chickens join in!
Miss Rumphius
by Barbara Cooney
A celebration of nature, growing and nurturing.
Red Sings From Treetops: a year in colors
by Joyce Sidman
Colors come to life bringing us the seasons. This poetic books brings these colors to life!
OUR FAVORITE
Picture Books that bring awareness of various cultures.
Traditional stories passed down, illustrated and retold.
We use these daily to help understand our what is around us in our vast and large world!
The Rough Faced Girl
by Rafe Martin
illustrated by David Shannon
Rafe’s daughter was a childhood friend. He is an amazing storyteller and this book is no exception.
This is how we do it
by Matt Lamothe
This book takes us through 5 children in 5 countries and shows us how they live.
Let’s Talk About Race
by Julius Lester
What makes each one of us special? This is the perfect book to introduce this topic to your child.
The Wise Shoemaker of Studena
by Syd Lieberman
This is a lovely lesson that teaches children that fancy clothes and things are not what make a person happy.
Last stop on Market Street
by de la Peña, Matt
A sweet story of a boy traveling on a bus, musicians and descriptive words to show what he sees.
Listen to the Wind
by Greg Mortenson
I love the way this book is illustrated… it’s a wonderful story that will take you through cultures.
What A Wonderful World
by George David Weiss
Sing the song with your children and look at beautiful images.
Grandma and the Great Gourd: A Bengali Folktale
by Chitra Banerjee Divakarun
A grandmother in India makes a journey of discovery across a great land.
Tikki Tikki Tembo
by Arlene Mosel
I remember this book and even Tikki Tikki’s name from my childhood! This is a classic ancient legend
All the World
by Liz Garton Scanlon
A sweet, simple, rhyming book about the rhythm of our lives in our world. Amazing for younger children.
Strudel, Strudel, Strudel
by Steve Sanfield
Strudle, Strudle, Strudle feels like a folktale of a village long ago where a husband and wife desperately love their strudle. This is a funny story.
Greet the dawn:
the Lakota way
by Nelson, S. D
A poetic book that gives insight into the dawn and the rhythm of the day for Lakota: living in balance.
Only the Mountains Do Not Move: A Maasai Story of Culture and Conservation
by Jan Reynolds
Beautiful photography fills this book of today’s Maasai, who face new challenges. Maasai tribes are meeting these obstacles head-on adapting their lives and agricultural practices while keeping their vibrant, close-knit culture alive.
Jaha and Jamil Went Down the Hill: An African Mother Goose
by Virginia Kroll
This was a lovely book we found where western nursery rhymes are rewritten with African themes, from different parts of Africa. We absolutely love this book and have been reading it from a very young age.
Whoever You Are
by Mem Fox
A wonderful story about how people around the world are different.
Freedom, We Sing
by Amyra León
A fun, lyrical book that helps bring awareness to the world.
This is an incredible series of beautifully illustrated nature themed books… We love them.
A Seed is Sleepy
by Dianna Hutts Aston
A Beetle is Shy
by Dianna Hutts Aston
A Rock is Lively
by Dianna Hutts Aston
A Butterfly is Sleepy
by Dianna Hutts Aston
An Egg is Quiet
by Dianna Hutts Aston
A Nest is Noisy
by Dianna Hutts Aston
Winter Stories …
The Big Snow
by Berta and Elmer Hader
An amazing story of animal migration during the winter. We love this book!
When Winter Comes
by Nancy Van Laan
A sweet rhyming and poetic account of where the animals go during winter.
Ollie’s Ski Trip
by Elska Beskow
A boy who goes into the forest and meets Jack Frost and King Winter.
The Story of the Snow Children
by Sibylle von Olfers
A whimsical story of the snow children. So beautifully done
Winter Sleep: A Hibernation Story
by Sean Taylor
In this cozy bedtime story, follow a child and his grandma through a winter landscape to explore how the Earth goes to sleep for winter.
What’s That Noise?
by Michelle Lemieux
What’s the noise that bear hears after waking from his long winter’s nap? This is a sweet story.
Fairies …
A Fairy Went A-Marketing
by Rose Fyleman
One of my favorite fairy books. Beautiful story with amazing illustrations that show the scale of a fairy and the true meaning of selflessness.
Fairy Houses
by Tracy Kane
One of the most magical stories as you venture into the woods where a little girl creates a fairy house… so they will come.
Through the Fairy Door: A Picture Book
by Gabby Dawnay
Follow Willow as she steps through a fairy door… into a magical world.
Backyard Fairies
by Phoebe Wahl
A girl searches for fairies in her backyard and the woods beyond, following little clues and traces of magic. Fairies and other magical creatures can be found on every page, hidden among the flowers, trees and pebbles. But although readers can see them, the girl keeps searching, just one step behind…
A Natural History of Fairies
by Emily Hawkins
Learn all about fairies! This is a STUNNING book, so beautifully made.
The Complete Book of the Flower Fairies by Cicely Mary Barker
Cicely Mary Barker is a must have for all fairy lovers. I have her original tiny book set and it’s one of my most precious books! This is the larger book that contains all of the books.
Flower Fairies of the Autumn
by Cicely Mary Barker
This is the smaller, mini book that is a really sweet collection of 4.
Flower Fairies of the Summer
by Cicely Mary Barker
This is the smaller, mini book that is a really sweet collection of 4.
Flower Fairies of the Winter
by Cicely Mary Barker
This is the smaller, mini book that is a really sweet collection of 4.
Flower Fairies of the Spring
by Cicely Mary Barker
This is the smaller, mini book that is a really sweet collection of 4.
Whimsical …
The Dream Child
by David McPhail
A dreamy travel of the dream child and her bear through the universe.
Michael Hagues Magical World of Unicorns
Stories about unicorns! So beautiful.
The Unicorn and the Lake
by Marianna Mayer, illustrated by Michael Hague
A childhood book of my own that is one of my favorites. It’s very special the images are stunning.
Tales of the Mushroom Folk
by Signe Aspelin
Such an incredible story and journey through little mushroom people. One of my favorite children’s books.
The Story of the Root Children
by Sibylle von Olfers
A very sweet and precious story about the tiny root children.
The Story of the Butterfly Children
by Sibylle von Olfers
Never be without the butterfly children!
The Sun Egg
by Elsa Beskow
You can’t go wrong with Elsa Beskow! A little tale about an Elf who finds a “sun egg” and her adventures.
Pelle’s New Suit
by Elsa Beskow
We are actually implementing this lovely story in homeschool for bartering and exchanges.
The Tomten
by Astrid Lindgren
A whimsical journey through the life and mind of a sweet Tomten.
The Rainbabies
by Laura Krauss Melmed
In the magic of a moonshower, a childless couple find a dozen tiny babies in the grass.
Little Witch Hazel
by Phoebe Wahl
Little Witch Hazel is a tiny witch who lives in the forest, helping creatures big and small. She’s a healer, an intrepid explorer, a hard worker and a kind friend. The illustrations are precious.
A Rainbow of My Own
by Don Freeman
We have my childhood book of this and it is very special. Who wouldn’t want to be chased by and frolic with a rainbow?
Animals …
Animalia
by Graeme Base
One that I studied in my children’s lit class way back when, this has always been one of my favorites. The illustrations are incredible and there is so much to find on each page
Hurry and the Monarch
by Antoine O Flatharta
One of my absolute favorite books about the journey of a Monarch and his friend, Hurry. If you raise monarchs, as we do, this is a must! This is hands down one of my favorite children’s books.
Verdi
by Janell Cannon
A young snake who doesn’t want to grow up. A sweet story about generations.
Baby Monkey Private Eye
by Brian Selznick and David Serlin
This was my daughter’s FIRST reading book. It’s not really a chapter book, but they make it feel that way with only a few words on each spread. The drawings are STUNNING works of art. What a book!
Rumble in the Jungle
by Giles Andreae
A fun, rhyming book that we’ve enjoyed since age 2!
Some Bugs
by Angela DiTerlizzi
An amazing book that explores a backyard. It’s a rhyming book and my little gal at 3 had it memorized! It’s wonderful
Jamberry
by Bruce Degen
Another rhyming book for the little ones all about jam.
The Hat
by Jan Brett
A precious story about a child whose hat blows from the clothesline and a hedgehog finds it. Very sweet.
Giraffes Can’t Dance
by Giles Andreae
illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees
A wonderful book about staying true to yourself. There is a moment where others are laughing AT the giraffe. It’s a teachable moment.
Dinosaurumpus!
by Tony Mitto
illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees
A fun story about dinosaurs and how they dance and have a party together.
helpful books
Books that explain the cycle of life, death and more.
Sometimes, we as parents need help explaining difficult things to our children – to make sense of their feelings.
The books in this section (in development as of February 2022), will help parents with topics such as separation anxiety, nightmares and all the little things children (and some of us adults) find fearful. This include children’s books about the sickness and death of a family member, grief, cancer and so much more… If you have amazing books to add to this section, please do contact us.
The Invisible String
by Patrice Karst
A wonderful book to help children put a heartfelt story to their feelings of separation anxiety, the death of a loved one and so much more. This is a beautiful, versatile book that can be used for so many purposes. (*mentions Heaven, but in a very easy way to lead to a lovely discussion of various beliefs)
The Grandpa Tree
by Mike Donahue
This is a beautiful book that can not only be used to teach children about the cycle of life in a very gentle way, but it can also be used to introduce children to the concept of death if your child is ready. It’s a lovely, simple book that can be used for many purposes.
Lifetimes: The Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children
by Bryan Mellonie
The title of the book says it all. This will help a child understand death in a really beautifully way – both in the writing as well as the illustrations.
The Next Place
by Warren Hanson
This is a lovely approach to where one might go after life, but can also be used for general travel and wishes and dreams. It’s a lovely book to read to a child early in life and reference when there might be an illness or death that happens later.
Nana Upstairs & Nana Downstairs
by Tomie dePaola
A sweet and easy story about a grandmother and a great grandmother and a little boy. The great grandmother and then later the grandmother both die in this book. It’s a lovely story for a child to help understand death.
What Happens When Someone I Love Has Cancer?
by Sara Olsher
This book is extremely helpful in helping young children learn a little bit more about cancer. It approaches the topic using a person who is non-specific (one isn’t sure the gender or even the relation to the child). It does not mention death, but it does speak of treatments and the impact cancer may have on a child’s life. It answers many questions they may have. Sara has a series of may books to help through this journey
Butterfly Kisses and Wishes on Wings
by Ellen McVicker
This is a beautiful book that answers children’s questions about cancer in a gentle and informative way, but through more of a storytelling approach. ** NOTE: This is a book about a mother with a cancer diagnosis. It does not mention death.
Chapter Books
YOU CAN
read together now ... alone later.
This is a collection of chapter books, poetry, short stories and classics that can be read to your child at a very young age (depending on content – check my notes for books for older children). When your child can read themselves, they will surely get lost into the world of stories as well.
Star Stories: Constellation Tales From Around the World
by Anita Ganeri
A collection of stories that people have told about constellations. It’s a lovely, large, beautiful, hard-cover book.
The Calm Buddha at Bedtime
by Dharmachari Nagaraja
The absolute PERFECT bedtime book for your young child. Each ends with a mindful lesson/moral from Buddha (not religious). The stories are extremely sweet and this has always been one of my favorite children’s books.
Tales of Oakapple Wood
by Jenny Patridge
Get lost in the Oakapple wood family and their adventures in the forest.
The Wise Enchanter: A Journey through the Alphabet
by Shelley Davidow
We incorporated this into our homeschooling and fell completely in love with it! This is about a mythical journey that 4 children take to find all 26 letters.
Wild Honey from the Moon
by Kenneth Kraegel
A mother will do anything for her child and this mother shrew is no different. She travels to the moon for some special healing honey.
Anna Hibiscus
by Atinuke
Join Anna and her family in Africa as you learn their language, way of life, food and celebrations. This is a beautifully written book.
Twig
by Elizabeth Orton Jones
This is one of my daughter’s favorites. Twig is so very special… about the secret world of fairies.
The Blue Hill Meadows
by Cynthia Rylant
Follow this lovely story about growing up in the meadow.
The Complete Brambly Hedge
by Jill Barklem
Brambly Hedge is absolutely perfect for ages young and older. It’s a very special book, with lovely drawings. The peaceful Peter Rabbit.
The Adventures of Spider: West African Folktales
by Joyce Cooper Arkhurst
Anansi is a spider in West African Folktales. These are very sweet stories that were unknown to us. I loved having discovered them.
Squirrel’s World: Candlewick Sparks
by Lisa Moser
A zippy little squirrel runs around with his friends. This is a sweet book with a nice rhythm that you shouldn’t read at bedtime!
Magical Wonder Tales: King Beetle Tamer and Other Stories
by Isabel Wyatt
Amazing enchanted stories for your budding reader!
Thumbelina
by Brian Alderson, Hans Christian Andersen
Thumbelina of course is a favorite classic, but this particular book, with incredible illustrations, is our favorite.
Swirl by Swirl: Spirals in Nature
by Joyce Sidman
Let’s celebrate the beauty and value of spirals. Beautifully illustrated by Beth Krommes.
Butterfly Eyes and Other Secrets of the Meadow
by Joyce Sidman
A book of poems and short stories: a journey through the fields and animals It is BEAUTIFULLY illustrated by Beth Krommes.
The Helen Oxenbury Nursery Rhyme Book
by Brian Alderson
A must have for Nursery Rhymes!
Anne Arrives: Inspired by Anne of Green Gables
by Kallie George
A children’s version of the classic Anne of Green Gables. A very sweet book!
Fairy Tales and Fables
by Gyo Fujikawa
I have my copy from when I was a child and this is my favorite Fairy Tale and Fables book.
Kaarina and the Sugar Bag Vest
by Sami Suomalainen and
Irma M. Milnes
A story about a child during the great depression. Heart warming and a touch sad, but lovely.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
by Lewis Carroll
Alice is one of my daughter’s favorite stories. She’s about to receive this book as a gift and it is beautiful!
Thimbleberry Stories
by Cynthia Rylant
These are some of my favorite series of stories. Dreamy and sweet.
#1 Tumtum & Nutmeg: Adventures beyond Nutmouse Hall
by Emily Bearn
I can say enough about these adventures through mouse life. It is so very special to get lost in!
#2 Tumtum & Nutmeg:
The Rose Cottage Adventures
by Emily Bearn
Continue to explore with these amazing two. I absolutely love these stories.
Elmer and the Dragon
by Ruth Stiles Gannett
Elmer’s adventures will take you to a far away world where your child’s imagination will thrive!
My Father’s Dragon
by Ruth Stiles Gannett
I adore these stories about Elmer and his dragon…
The Lost Spells
by Robert Macfarlane and Jackie Morris
A collection of stunning illustrations paired with beautiful poetry. We can’t recommend enough!
The Twenty-One Balloons
by William Pene du Bois
Professor William Waterman Sherman intends to fly across the Pacific Ocean and through a twist of fate, he lands on Krakatoa. He discovers a world of unimaginable wealth, eccentric inhabitants, and incredible balloon inventions. One of our favorite books for both adults and children!
Griswald the Gnome
by Daniela Drescher
The absolute sweetest book about Griswald coupled with the most precious illustrations!
Into the Witchwood
by Méabh McDonnell
There’s magic lurking in the shadows. Watching her. Can Rowan enter the Witchwood and bring her Mum home?
The Heart and Mind of Frances Pauley
by April Stevens
A beautiful book about an 11-year-old. Her personal hero is famed anthropologist Margaret Mead and her best friend is the book-loving, elderly bus driver Alvin. She struggles to make friends and it’s her tender journey into her teen years.
Note that this book contains the death of a loved one.
PeeWee’s Tale
by Johanna Hurwitz
When his owner’s parents let him go in Central Park, a young guinea pig learns to survive in the natural world with the help of a “park-wise” squirrel while trying to find his way back home.
Tua and the Elephant
by R. P. Harris
One day, Tua makes an accidental acquaintance&;one with wise, loving eyes and a very curious trunk. And this elephant needs her help. From the bustling night market to the hallowed halls of a Buddhist temple and finally, to the sanctuary of an elephant refuge, this clever girl and her beloved companion find that right under their noses is exactly what each has been searching for: a friend.
The Moon Spun Round:
W. B. Yeats for Children
by W. B. Yeats
This gorgeous book is an absolute treasure – if not for the artwork alone! The poems are inspiring, of course. Highly recommend for any little poetry lover and art lover!
Leeva at Last
by Sara Pennypacker
A Hilarious Middle Grade Adventure About a Girl, a Boy in a Hazmat Suit, and Transforming a Community for Children
The Family Under the Bridge
by Natalie Savage Carlson
This heartwarming, classic middle grade novel tells of Armand, an old man living on the streets of Paris who loves his solitary life. One day, just before Christmas, he
returns to his favorite spot beneath the bridge to find three cold and hungry
children. Although he has no interest in children, Armand soon finds himself
caring for the small family.
Mishka
by Edward van de Vendel
A tender, lyrical story of an Afghani girl finding a new home, new friends, and refuge―with the help of a very special bunny.
Song for a Whale
by Lynne Kelly
The story of a deaf girl’s connection to a whale whose song can’t be heard by his species, and the journey she takes to help him.
Floriography:
An Illustrated Guide to the Victorian Language of Flowers
by Jessica Roux
If you have never explored Jessica Roux… now is the time. This stunning book, for plant lovers, will be one of your most precious heirlooms!
Ornithography:
An Illustrated Guide to Bird Lore & Symbolism
by Jessica Roux
And again, the images. Man… she is amazing. For every bird lover out there needs this in their home!
OUR FAVORITE
Duologies and Trilogies
These are so lovely to gift 1 book at a time or all of the books in a litlte series.
Book 1
Kenny & the Dragon
by Tony DiTerlizzi
Kenny is a little rabbit with a very big problem. This is a sweet adventure between friends…
Book 2
Kenny & the Book of Beasts
by Tony DiTerlizzi
Time has passed since Kenny Rabbit’s last adventure with his best friend, the legendary dragon Grahame, and a lot has changed in the sleepy village of Roundbrook.
Book 1
By Ash, Oak and Thorn
by Melissa Harrison
Three tiny, ancient beings – Moss, Burnet and Cumulus discover after their winter hibernation in their beloved ash tree home, that it has been destroyed. They set off on an adventure to find more of their kind, a journey through both countrysides and the city. Helped along the way by birds and animals, the trio journey through the world …
Book 2
By Rowan and Yew
by Melissa Harrison
As autumn arrives, the friends decide to return home to Ash Row. When you’re only one-hand high, it’s a journey filled with both danger and delight. They have friendship, good sense and humour on their side…
Book 1
Book Uncle and Me
by Uma Krishnaswami
A sweet story about Yasmin and her friends and how they save their local, free, lending library (bookstand) owned by her uncle. A sweet journey!
Book 2
Birds on the Brain
by Uma Krishnaswami
A sweet story about how Yasmin and her friend help people become aware of Bird Count India, the major event about to launch all over the country. Thousands of birdwatchers will be out counting birds as part of a global movement.
Book 1
Skunk and Badger
by Amy Timberlake
A delightful animal-odd-couple story with beautiful illustrations and a sweet story of friendship.
Book 2
Egg Marks the Spot
by Amy Timberlake
Skunk and Badger head back out on a rock-finding expedition with surprises hiding behind every boulder.
Book 1
Skunk and Badger
by Amy Timberlake
Skunk and Badger have an easy roommate, hibernation rhythm—Skunk cooks! Badger cleans!—until they take in two orphaned rat pups, Zeno and Zephyr. (only available currently in hardcover)
The Little Grey Men
by B.B.
Sweet adventures of 3 little gnomes! Note from my 11 year old that this can feel a little sad, but maybe er on the side of older children!
The Little Grey Men Go
Down the Bright Stream
by B.B.
Sequal to the Little Grey Men… enjoy more adventures with these little gnomes!
OUR FAVORITE
Series
We’ve had most of these series since before she could read.
They are wonderful to read together and then perfect for when your little one begins reading on his/her own.
The Cobbles Street Cousins
by Cynthia Rylant
The Cobble Street Cousins live together with their aunt and uncle and have big dreams. They create, adventure and come up with amazing ideas together. These books are small and short and perfect for your budding reader.
The Lighthouse Family
by Cynthia Rylant
The Lighthouse Family books are incredible. They are very gender neutral and extremely well written and sweet. I purchased one and quickly got the rest of them.
Little House on the Prairie
by Laura Ingalls Wilder
What would a children’s blog be without Little House? I couldn’t be happier to be reading these with my child and it’s one of our favorite children’s books. There are some things that need to be explained (or skipped), but they are a classic that take us through life back then.
The Penderwicks
by Jeanie Birdsall
The Donsey of Gnomes (Limindoor Woods) Series
I’m not sure I can convey the nature of these gnome stories in just a sentence or two. I honestly can not speak highly enough of them. They are so special and hands down our favorite children’s books. We read and read and can’t get enough of them. The gnomes become our friends and their Limindoor woods is where we dream of being.
A Donsy of Gnomes
by Sieglinde De Francesca
1. The Way of Gnome
by Sieglinde De Francesca
2. Gnomes & Friends
by Sieglinde De Francesca
3. The Gnome’s Rosette
by Sieglinde De Francesca
4. Nine Gnome Nights by Sieglinde De Francesca
5. A Gnome-in-Training
by Sieglinde De Francesca
Heartwood Hotel Series
We adore this series. The characters are sweet and gentle and the themes are amazing.
Heartwood Hotel: A True Home
by Kallie George
Heartwood Hotel: The Greatest Gift
by Kallie George
Heartwood Hotel: Better Together
by Kallie George
Heartwood Hotel: Home Again
by Kallie George
Tiptoes Lightly
These are incredible! However, they don’t have to be read in any type of order. We love them.
The Tales of Tiptoes Lightly
by Reg Down
The Festival of Stones:
Autumn and Winter Tales of Tiptoes Lightly
by Reg Down
Big-Stamp Two-Toes the Barefoot Giant:
Spring Tales of Tiptoes Lightly
by Reg Down
The Midsummer Mouse: Midsummer Tales of Tiptoes Lightly and the Summer Queen
by Reg Down
The Magic Knot ~ and other tangles!: A making tale comedy starring Pine Cone and Pepper Pot and the lovely Tiptoes Lightly
by Reg Down
The Lost Lagoon
by Reg Down
The Treasure Cave: Sea Tales of Tiptoes Lightly
by Reg Down
A Tangle of Tales
by Reg Down
The Starry Bird: an Easter tale
by Reg Down
The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place
This series is an incredible one! We took about 9 months to read it together every evening. Each book is a massive cliffhanger, so I would absolutely consider this series one giant book. It’s a lovely adventure and just such a wonderful story!
Entire Box Set
by Maryrose Wood
Book 1
The Mysterious Howling
by Maryrose Wood
Book 2
The Hidden Gallery
by Maryrose Wood
Book 3
The Unseen Guest
by Maryrose Wood
Book 4
The Interrupted Tale
by Maryrose Wood
Book 5
The Unmapped Sea
by Maryrose Wood
Book 6
The Long-Lost Home
by Maryrose Wood
The Mysterious Benedict Society
We absolutely love this series, especially paired with the audio book. It’s truly amazing. The story is full of clever puzzles, twists, and fun characters that keep kids completely engaged. I love that it challenges them to think while still being entertaining and age appropriate.
Entire Box Set
by Trenton Lee Stewart
Book 1
The Mysterious Benedict Society
by Trenton Lee Stewart
Book 2
The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Perilous Journey
by Trenton Lee Stewart
Book 3
The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Prisoner’s Dilemma
by Trenton Lee Stewart
Book 4
The Mysterious Benedict Society and the Riddle of Ages
by Trenton Lee Stewart
Bonus Book (5)
The Extraordinary Education of Nicholas Benedict
by Trenton Lee Stewart
(Extras)
Mr. Benedict’s Book of Perplexing Puzzles, Elusive Enigmas, and Curious Conundrums
by Trenton Lee Stewart
Ragweed and Poppy
The entire Ragweed, Poppy and Ereth series will warm your heart. Can be stand alone as well!
Book 1
Ragweed
by Avi
Book 2
Ragweed & Poppy
by Avi
Book 3
Poppy
by Avi
Book 4
Poppy & Rye
by Avi
Book 5
Ereth’s Birthday
by Avi
Book 6
Poppy’s Return
by Avi
Book 7
Poppy & Ereth
by Avi
We love this series… it’s older, so it’s often hard to find. Buy used! It is so worth it. These are stand alone books as well.
Book 1
The Cricket in Times Square
by George Selden
Book 2
Tucker’s Countryside
by George Selden
Book 3
Harry Cat’s Pet Puppy
by George Selden
Buy Used!
Book 4
Chester Cricket’s Pigeon Ride
by George Selden
Book 5
Chester Cricket’s New Home
by George Selden
Book 6
Harry Kitten and Tucker Mouse
by George Selden
Book 7
The Old Meadow
by George Selden
Buy Used!
The Birchbark Series is so very special!
Book 1
The Birchbark House
by Louise Erdrich
Book 2
The Game of Silence
by Louise Erdrich
Book 3
The Porcupine Year
by Louise Erdrich
Book 4
Chickadee
by Louise Erdrich
Book 5
Makoons
by Louise Erdrich
These are some of the most special books we have.
Journey through the woods and into the life of animals and the forest.
Among the Pond People
by Clara Dillingham Pierson
Among the Forest People
by Clara Dillingham Pierson
Among the Forest People
by Clara Dillingham Pierson
OUR FAVORITE
Beautiful Learning Books
There’s nothing more shocking than to see your child sit down with an encyclopedia or a reference book, learn something and head back to the dinner table to tell you that an Orca isn’t actually a whale… it’s a dolphin.
The Nature Connection
The most amazing nature journal! A must have for children who are homeschooling, in forest school or just plain nature lovers!
Zoo in the Sky
by Jacqueline Mitton
The perfect book to introduce your little one to constellations and the stories behind them.
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History
by Vashti Harrison
One of the most impressive books I have seen in a while. My young child gets lost in the stories of these women. There is a different woman on each page. It is so well written and very sweet.
Women in Science
by Rachel Ignotofsky
We use this for homeschool and study a different scientist every once in a while! It’s really well done.
We were gifted a set of these, with their beautiful gold-edged pages.
They are amazing.
The Anthology of Intriguing Animals
The Wonders of Nature
The Anthology of Aquatic Life
The Mysteries of the Universe
The Mysteries of the Universe
The Mysteries of the Universe
The Mysteries of the Universe
The Mysteries of the Universe
We love these Anatomy of books! There are some great activity books that go with them, if you want to take it to that level, but they are amazing stand alone as well.
Farm Anatomy
by Julia Rothman
Nature Anatomy
by Julia Rothman
Ocean Anatomy
by Julia Rothman
Wildlife Anatomy
by Julia Rothman
Food Anatomy
by Julia Rothman
Insect Anatomy
by Julia Rothman
6 Responses
This is an amazing resource thanks! Have you read the tiptoes lightly books? I own a Forest school and will definitely use this resource.
I have not read the tiptoes lightly books and I will check them out today! I’m so glad you will find it useful!
We fell right in love with Tiptoes Lightly and they have been added!
Love the effort you put into creating this terrific reading resource to share with others! You clearly know that reading to, and with, children develops their love of reading and this is a TERRIFIC gift to give a child. Like you, I love children’s books and tried to share that with my boys when they were kids and also with my kindergarten friends when I taught. I’ll share a few titles of books that were fun to read aloud and enjoyed by many, many little ones.
Yes Day!! and Little Pea by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
The Legend of Spookley the Square Pumpkin by Joe Troiano
Also well-loved … The Legend of Jellybean the Unbreakable Egg by Joe Troiano
The Elephant & Piggie series by Mo Willems
More Bears! by Kenn Nesbitt
Our Tree Named Steve by Alan Zweibel
and so, so many more!
Thank you so much, Audrey for your reply and I’m really glad you like this resource! These are excellent suggestion. My goal was to leave well-known books off this list because well… everyone knows them! It doesn’t make them not amazing of course. So there are SO MANY I’ve missed… I know. So grateful for the suggestions. 🙂
This list is amazing, I will go through it slowly and hopefully read them all! Thank you for this! Sharon Sanford, fellow Forest School mom 🙂