How We Chose These Books (Parent-Tested, Kid-Approved)

These books are all selected by parents whose kids devour books, not by critics. We based inclusion on our list on how often these books are requested, dog-eared, ruined in the tub, bought as gifts, and how long they stay on the bookshelves at home. 

In addition to being simply loved, these are also the books that spark family discussion. These are books that make kids ask, think, talk, and ponder. Why did the character do that? Would you do that? Would you love me if I did that?

You may notice our list doesn’t stop at 100, because we couldn’t stand to leave some of the most beloved books off this list. We also snuck even more books in here by recommending similar books by the same author. We just love books.

Best Picture Books Kids Adore

1. Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems

Trixie’s father will do just about anything to figure out what she is trying to say when she loses her beloved stuffed animal on the way to the laundromat. There's a whole series of Knuffle Bunny books; parents read the third book, Knuffle Bunny Free, at your own risk. It's a tear jerker.

2. Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes

Chrysanthemum loves her long and unique name until she is teased about it at school by a group of classmates. Other beloved books by Henkes include Lily's Purple Plastic Purse and Kitten's First Full Moon.

3. The Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña

CJ and Nana take the bus to church every Sunday, and they get off at the last stop on Market Street. This beautifully illustrated book explores the complex emotions of appreciating differences and social inequities.

4. Flora and the Flamingo by Molly Idle

Flora and the Flamingo recounts the unlikely friendship between a young girl and her flamingo through whimsical illustrations.

5. Gaston by Kelly DiPucchio

Imagine being the only bulldog in a house filled with fancy poodles! Gaston charms his way into hearts as he encounters his biological bulldog mother, but finds home truly is where the heart resides.

6. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

This classic kids' book of metamorphosis stars the famous hungry caterpillar who munches his way through a feast and emerges as a beautiful butterfly.

7. Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Dressed in his wolf costume, Max is sent to his bedroom without supper—and then things get a little bit wild! Let the wild rumpus begin.

8. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

When Peter wakes up to see the first snowfall, he puts on his red snowsuit and starts exploring the snow-covered neighborhood in this classic children's book.

9. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus by Mo Willems

Pigeon is headstrong and really wants to get his own way, and isn’t above wheedling, crying, and tantrum throwing to get what he wants. Very fun to read with toddlers who may relate.

10. Punk Farm by Jarrett Krosoczka

“Are you ready to rock?” Farmer Joe’s animals are, and parents will love this book as much as their kids.

11. Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss

This classic is a classic for a reason. Read all the Seuss books, but if you’re only going to own one, this is the one.

12. Press Here by Herve Tullet

This interactive book is art and play and a book and easily more fun for babies as an iPad, no joke.

13. Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney

The first in the llama books, and hands-down the best, this book helps kids calm worries about bedtime.

14. The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson

This story about a clever mouse is about how smart and brave can overcome strength alone; but it’s the rhythmic rhymes and chance to do voices that makes kids ask for it and parents enjoy reading it on repeat.

15. A Very Bad Case of Stripes by David Shannon

Camilla Cream loved lima beans, but she wouldn’t eat them. A great, gorgeously illustrated tale of being yourself.

16. No, David! by David Shannon

David is a rambunctious toddler who can’t help but misbehave, but his parents reassure him they love him no matter what. David Shannon is a brilliant writer and his back-to-back entries here are so different, and for different ages, we had to give each a shout out. Also worth a mention is Duck on a Bike!

17. Corduroy by Don Freeman

Your parents probably read this lovely story of a teddy bear who loses his button but finds his person when you were a child. It hasn’t lost any of its magic.

18. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst

We all have terrible, horrible days. It can be very cathartic for kids to read about someone else's. It’s also a great way to talk about how to handle big feelings and bad days.

19. The Snowy Nap by Jan Brett

Little Hedgie the hedgehog is growing sleepier and sleepier, but he’s not ready to hibernate. First, he needs to see the wonders of winter on the farm.

20. The Little Island by Margaret Wise Brown

As the seasons change, the earth changes, and so does the Little Island. This lesser-known Margaret Wise Brown kids' book is filled with big ideas as it explores the concepts of point of view and perspective. The best known of her books? Goodnight, Moon, which also belongs on this list!

21. The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka

We think we know the classic tale of the three pigs and the big bad wolf. This book uncovers the real story behind this nursery rhyme.

22. Stellaluna by by Janell Cannon

Love comes in all different forms. When a young fruit bat becomes separated from her mother, she finds love and companionship with a family of birds. The book also celebrates embracing oneself, as well as differences.

23. Sam and Dave Dig a Hole by Mac Barnett

On the hunt for something spectacular, two brothers named Sam and Dave dig themselves a big adventure. They somehow find a little more than they bargained for on this quest.

24. Olivia by Ian Falconer

Falconer’s spunky little pig named Olivia is an endearing character. Olivia’s artistic interpretations of even the most everyday situations make for daily laughs and adventures. We know many children who love collecting this series of kids' books.

25. Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans

"In an old house in Paris that was covered in vines..." lived a little girl named Madeline. Madeline may be small, but she makes up for it with her larger-than-life personality in this classic children's book.

26. The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf

Ferdinand was just a peaceful bull who didn’t want to hurt anyone. This kids' book explores themes of conformity and believing in yourself.

27. I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen

As the name suggests, this story is about a bear who wants his hat back and sets off to find it. Along the way, he encounters a fox, frog, turtle, and more. Follow up with This Is Not My Hat and We Found a Hat.

28. Brave Irene by William Steig

Determined to deliver a package for her mother, Irene sets off through a series of dangerous situations, including a snowstorm. It all leads to a big adventure with courageous Irene at the helm.

29. The Day The Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt

Imagine opening up your box of crayons only to find a box filled with letters declaring, "We quit!" This is precisely what happens to Duncan, a kid eager to get back to coloring. We think it's fair to say that this kids' book, and its sequel, became instant hits in many households.

30. I Know a Lot by Stephen Krensky

This series of board books is just right for that toddler in your life who is hitting an independent streak. It celebrates the things they've learned, the things they can do, and all those other small but important triumphs of early learners.

31. Be You! by Peter H. Reynolds

Three cheers for individuality! Be You! reminds readers exactly what is so fantastic about being unique and different.

32. Animalia by Graeme Base

Animalia is a stunning depiction of the 'ABCs' with 26 intricate illustrations of the alphabet letters.

33. The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown

As much as he tries, this little bunny cannot get away from his mother. No matter where he tries to go, his mother seems to always find a way to support and comfort him.

34. Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall

Sometimes we all need a little push. Jabari is ready to make a big splash by jumping off the diving board.

35. Grandfather's Journey by Allen Say

A young man from Japan crosses the Pacific Ocean on a steamboat destined for the United States. Grandfather’s Journey recounts this story of immigration and life in the U.S. and Japan.

36. We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Helen Oxenbury and Michael Rosen

The entire family heads out for a big adventure on the hunt for a bear. A fantastic bedtime story, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is almost as fun to read as it is to listen to.

37. Miss Nelson is Missing by Harry G. Allard Jr. and James Marshall

What would you do if your teacher went missing? Miss Nelson, a kindly but ignored teacher, suddenly goes missing, leaving the class to fend for themselves with a rather mean substitute.

38. Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion

Harry, the dog, HATES to take a bath. One day, he got so dirty that he was unrecognizable to his family!

39. Round As a Mooncake by Roseanne Thong

This book is a beautiful exploration of culture and geometry. A little girl goes for a walk through her neighborhood and discovers all the things that are round.

40. The Colors of Us by Karen Katz

Lena wants to paint a picture of herself. She and her mother walk through the neighborhood and discover the many different shades of brown skin.

41. Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina

What happens when a cap peddler takes a rest near a tree filled with naughty monkeys? This timeless classic children's book is a favorite filled with delightful illustrations and cheeky monkeys.

42. Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin

Dragons love tacos in all shapes and sizes, as everyone knows! Young kids will delight in this modern picture book’s colorful illustrations. Just make sure there’s no salsa.

43. Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty

Ada is a young girl who loves all things science. Though she may not speak, she is always investigating the world around her and inspiring young readers of this popular kids' book series to do the same.

44. I Love My Hair! by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley

Keyana explores the beauty of her hair—and Black heritage. This story has been celebrating Black hair for 20 years.

45. Strega Nona by Tomie dePaola

In a small Italian village lives a helpful witch named Strega Nona. Her magic is about to get into the wrong hands when she hires a man named Big Anthony to help her with her chores.

46. The Keeping Quilt by Patricia Polacco

Heartwarming illustrations depict the story of four generations of a Jewish family through family traditions.

47. The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors by Drew Daywalt

Some of the very best kids' books just make everyone laugh, and this is one of them. Try to imagine your hands are warriors playing an epic battle of rock, paper, scissors, and you'll get a sense of this picture book from Daywalt, author of The Day The Crayons Quit. It's a fun read with bright, colorful illustrations.

48. Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey

A young duck family decides to raise their family on an island in Boston's Public Gardens, but when they have to take their young ducklings on a walk through the busy downtown streets, things get hectic.

49. Doug Unplugged by Dan Yaccarino

As a young robot, Doug learns all about the world by being plugged into a database. He may learn a lot of facts, but it’s not until Doug unplugs that he begins to really understand the world around him.

Cozy up to a stack of new books with these picks. Photo by Meghan Rose

Best Read-Alouds & Beginning Reader Books

50. The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

The Giving Tree recounts the story of a boy and an apple tree who develop a relationship. The tree would do anything for the boy. This tear-jerker classic children's book is filled with lessons of what it means to give and to take.

51. Charlotte's Web by E. B. White

A story of true friendship, Charlotte is a spider who cleverly develops a plan to save her pig-friend Wilbur from becoming Christmas dinner.

52. Click Clack Moo by Doreen Cronin

When Farmer Brown’s cows find a typewriter in their barn, they begin to type letters. Boy, who knew cows could be so demanding?

53. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr., John Archambault

When the lowercase letters tumble down the coconut tree, it is up to their grownup capital letters to put them in the right order.

54. Trumpet of the Swan by E. B White

Louis is a trumpeter swan born without a voice. Unable to trumpet with the rest of his family, an 8-year-old boy named Sam Beaver teaches him to find his own voice in this cherished kids' book.

55. Elephant and Piggie Series by Mo Willems

This engaging series depicts the friendship between Elephant and Piggie. Their honesty charms young children, while the simple dialog encourages emerging readers.

56. Frog and Toad Series by Arnold Lobel

Frog and Toad are the best of friends, and throughout this easy-reader series, the duo spend their days together delighting young readers.

57. My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett

An engaging read-aloud kids' book; this beginner chapter book uncovers the story of Elmer Elevator as he explores Wild Island on a rescue mission to save a baby dragon.

58. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

Charlie wins a golden ticket to visit the greatest chocolate factory in the world. This novel’s dark side has been delighting children for generations.

59. Wings of Fire Series by Tui T. Sutherland

Kids love this one because—dragons! Plus adventure, friendship, epic quests… it keeps kids coming back for more.

60. Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osborne

Jack and Annie take kids on quick, magical time-travel adventures that sneak in actual history without feeling like homework. There are over 100 books in the series, and they’ll keep kids busy for years.

61. Hilo Series by Judd Winick

Kids tear through these—Hilo is funny, sweet, and full of wild sci-fi action as he and his friends try to save the world.

62. Mercy Watson Series by Kate DiCamillo

This series is pure joy: a goofy, toast-obsessed pig who stumbles into silly trouble and a whole neighborhood that loves her for it. The best part is it gets kids reading and loving Kate DiCamillo, so they’re primed to read her other, harder, fabulous books like The Tale of Despereaux, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, Because of Winn-Dixie, and more.

63. Junie B. Jones Series by Barbara Park

Kids adore Junie B. because she’s loud, honest, and completely herself. Kids adore her, and go from being read these books to wanting to read them alone.

Best Middle Reader Books (For Tweens!)

64. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle

A group of three kids unexpectedly heads out on an epic adventure through time and space. The power of love ultimately wins when Meg Murry is reunited with her long-lost father.

65. The Lightning Thief (Book 1 in the Percy Jackson series)

This modern day take on Greek mythology follows Percy Jackson's adventures as he discovers his demigod roots.

66. Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

Set against the backdrop of 1943 Copenhagen, Demark, this historical fiction novel recounts the escape of a Jewish family, the Rosens.

67. Wonder by R. J. Palacio

Auggie Pullman was born with facial differences and medical difficulties that kept him from going to school. That is until 5th grade when he became an unlikely hero.

68. The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

This sweet first book in a series is about a robot who learns to love. The pictures are darling and it’s been turned into a fantastic animated film.

69. Holes by Louis Sachar

Another great film (being turned into a series now for Disney+), this classic has mystery, humor, and plot twists. It takes place at a camp where the campers have to dig holes… "It was all because of his no-good-dirty-rotten-pig-stealing-great-great-grandfather!"

70. Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart

With brainy puzzles, quirky characters, and secret missions—kids feel smart while having tons of fun reading these books (this is the first in a series).

71. A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket

Another series, these books are darkly funny and endlessly inventive, following the unlucky Baudelaire siblings and their ridiculous adventures. There’s a decent movie and fabulous TV series to watch after reading. (The Bad Beginning is the first book in the series).

72. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

This book is a classic that has been made into a movie half a dozen times for a reason. The stories of family and growing up are timeless. Even Joey on Friends loves the book.

73. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

Inspired by a true story about a silverback gorilla held captive for 27 years, The One and Only Ivan illustrates themes of hope and friendship.

74. The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill

This fantasy novel is about the story of Luna, who was taken as a baby from her family and rescued by Xan, who teaches her to harness her magic.

75. Beezus and Ramona by Beverly Cleary

Ramona seems to always find a way to annoy her older sister, Beezus. This classic chapter book is a wonderful coming-of-age story about sisterhood and friendship.

76. The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

Grab the box set when they're still young for a read-along of the earlier, tamer books, and by the time they're tweens or teens, they'll likely be ready to finish off this addicting, yearslong tale of a young wizard and his pals as they make their way through magic school, battling all sorts of villains.

77. The Mighty Miss Malone by Christopher Paul Curtis

Follow the twists and turns brought on by the Great Depression in this first-person narrative told by Deza Malone, whose family and future are upended by the historical downturn.

78. As Brave as You by Jason Reynolds

Brothers Genie and Ernie are leaving Brooklyn for the first time. They are sent to spend the summer in the country with their grandparents. Winner of the Coretta Scott King Award, this story explores family, love, and bravery.

79. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

A perfect “tween” read, Stargirl is a tale about popularity and finding your first love. When Stargirl arrived at Mica Area High School, she was born to shine.

80. Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls

Set against the backdrop of the Ozark Mountains during the Great Depression, Where the Red Fern Grows is a story about a young boy and his hound dogs.

81. Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbit

Who wants to live forever? This is the question Winnie Foster attempts to answer when she discovers the Tuck family’s secret to immortality.

Best YA Books Teens Can’t Put Down

82. I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

This book tells the story of Maya Angelou’s life from the age of 3 through her teenage years.

83. Night by Elie Wiesel

Night is an autobiography story of Elie Wiesel’s survival in the concentration camps. This eloquently translated memoir has been recently reinterpreted by Elie’s wife, Marion Wiesel.

84. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon

Christopher Boone discovers a dead poodle on his front lawn and begins to investigate. This modern classic about a boy with autism is both funny and insightful.

85. The Giver by Lois Lowry

Jonas is an 11-year-old-boy who lives in a futuristic society. This Newbery Medal-winning dystopian classic begins to unveil the secrets of this seemingly perfect world.

86. The Outsiders by S. E. Hinton

Now considered a classic YA book, this novel follows a band of teenagers as they come of age in a troubling setting.

87. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

This story about unlikely friendships is sometimes heartbreaking, but always unforgettable. This contemporary classic depicts life in Afghanistan during times of turmoil and the power of a father’s love.

88. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel speaks to the injustice in the deep South while simultaneously telling the coming-of-age story of its young characters.

89. The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger

Sixteen-year-old Holden Caulfield leaves his prep school in Pennsylvania and goes underground in New York City for two days. The Catcher in the Rye has captivated generations of young readers through its masterful description of the loss of innocence and the transformation to adulthood.

90. The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins

Kids grow up with these books, and love the rebellion, the friendships, and deciphering what is right and what is wrong. New prequels are still coming out (as are the movies). Katniss Everdeen is a hero for the ages. Also, don’t sleep on Collins’ earlier series, Gregor the Overlander, which is a retelling of Alice in Wonderland.

91. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green 

Basically, we could pick any John Green book, but this one is a great place to start. This book about two kids with cancer who fall in love after meeting at a support group sounds unbearably sad. And it is. It’s also beautiful, thoughtful, and uplifting.

92. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

A beautifully written, emotional story about courage, friendship, and books in a dark time. If you missed this one, read it alongside your kids.

93. The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon

Though published in 2016, this novel only gets more timely, exploring young love, immigration, science, dreams, and fate. You know, the small stuff. Nicola Yoon’s Everything, Everything is also great.

94. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

This book is powerful, eye-opening, heartbreaking, and heartfelt. Not only should it be required reading for all teens and parents of teens, it really speaks to kids.

95. Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli

A sweet, funny, and heartwarming story about coming out, first love, and being yourself. All of Becky Albertalli’s books are great stories for young LGBTQ+ kids who want to see themselves in stories.

Best Nonfiction Books for Curious Kids

96. Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly

Three African-American women solved complex math problems for NASA engineers playing a major role in the race to the moon and the development of space technology.

97. Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine by Laurie Wallmark and April Chu

Ada may have suffered some difficulties in her life, but she was able to write one of the first computer programs in the world through it all.

98. Up in the Garden Down in the Dirt by Kate Messner

This poetic children’s nature book explores what happens beneath the soil. There is a whole world under the dirt that helps our gardens grow.

99. Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls by Francesca Cavallo, et al.

This compilation is filled with inspiring one-page biographies of women and girls who broke the glass ceiling in their respective careers.

100. Little Leaders & Dreamers Series by Vashti Harrison

Detailing the lives of visionary women, bold women, and exceptional men in Black history, this series is a perfect introduction to the life and stories of these fantastic individuals.

101. My Name is Truth: The Life of Sojourner Truth by Ann Turner

This nonfiction book details the life of Sojourner Truth from childhood, through her challenging escape and rescue, and her career as a public speaker.

102. Who Was Series by LLC Penguin Random House

This biographical series teaches history and culture through engaging stories and illustrations.

103. Code Breaker, Spy Hunter: How Elizebeth Friedman Changed the Course of Two World Wars by Laurie Wallmark

This picture book introduces young readers to the life of Elizabeth Friedman, a cryptologist who cracked the code on gangsters and Nazi spies.

104. I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai and Patricia McCormick

Malala is a Pakistani girl who dared to speak out about the Taliban’s unfair treatment of women. Specifically, that girls cannot attend school. Older kids admire Malala’s passion and perseverance to change the world.

105. Reaching for the Moon by Katherine Johnson

Through determination and persistence, Buzz Aldrin captured America's sense of adventure as he raced for the moon, but his story wouldn't have been possible without the mathematical brain of Katherine Johnson. She tells her story in this memoir.

106. This Book is Anti-Racist by Tiffany Jewell

Empowered readers learn how to stick up to the racist adults in their life. This Book is Anti-Racist’s 20 chapters are perfect for both old and young readers.

107. Born a Crime by Trevor Noah

Funny, moving, and eye-opening—kids and teens love Noah’s stories of growing up in South Africa told with a mix of humor and heart.

Best Poetry Books for Kids

108. Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein

Silverstein’s poems are both nonsensical and heartwarming. This compilation has been a family favorite for generations.

109. The New Kid of the Block by Jack Prelutsky

Written from a child’s point of view, Prelutsky’s poems encompass just about everything. This book is a perfect introduction to poetry for young children.

110. The Oxford Illustrated Book of American Children’s Poems by Donald Hall

Filled with a variety of poetry that includes a little bit of everything—from nursery rhymes to classics—Hall has beautifully compiled some of the best children’s poetry.

111. Thirteen Moons on Turtle’s Back: A Native American Year of Moons by Joseph Bruchac and Jonathan London

Celebrate the wonder of the seasons through these lyrical Native American poems.

112. Guess Who, Haiku by Deanna Caswell and Bob Shea

This guessing game introduces young children to the art of haiku.

113. Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

This book is a series of beautiful poems that gives kids a powerful sense of identity and voice. And ideas about the different ways you can tell your story.

114. Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl

This book is so revolting, you may never want to put it down. Dahl's wonderfully repulsive fairy tales are filled with a gruesome retelling of classic folk and fairy tales.

115. Wee Rhymes a Baby’s First Poetry Book by Jane Yolen

Fifty original poems and rhymes fill the pages of this poetry collection. These simple poems are easy to recite from memory and allow you to fill your baby’s daily routine with a touch of poetry.

116. Shout! Little Poems That Roar by Brod Bagert

Learn all about the seasons and...ketchup in this playfully silly book of poems.

Graphic Novels for Kids

117. The New Kid by Jerry Craft

Jordan Banks is one of the only kids of color in his prestigious private school. Stuck between two worlds, Jordan has difficulty fitting in. The full-color comics add depth to the genuine, often funny, and always fearless story.

118. Aster and the Accidental Magic by Thom Pico and Karensac

Aster and her dog, Buzz, venture through a forest and encounter a spirit who gives them three wishes. This graphic novel is a fun read packed with adventure.

119. Lucy and Andy Neanderthal by Jeffrey Brown

This is your typical story about two young cave kids. Lucy and Andy are Neanderthal siblings who lived some 40,000 years ago. Hop back in time as this sibling duo forms an explorers club and hunts for a good adventure.

120. Phoebe and Her Unicorn by Dana Simpson

Marigold Heavenly Nostrils is a unicorn who owes a lot to her best friend, Phoebe. After all, she did accidentally release her from a magical curse.

121. Dogman Series by Dav Pilkey

He’s part-dog, part-man. He’s Dogman! This wildly popular graphic novel series is a perfect way to engage the imagination of any reluctant reader.

122. Baby-Sitter Club Series by Ann M. Martin and Gale Galligan

The graphical interpretation of the popular '80s book series The Baby-Sitters Club has been updated just enough to be relevant to today’s young adult readers.

123. Anne Frank's Diary: The Graphic Adaptation by Ari Folman

Frank's famous diary has been re-imagined as a graphic novel by Folman. The spirit and perseverance of Frank are beautifully depicted through David Polonsky’s illustrations.

124. Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series by Jeff Kinney

Preteen Greg Heffley illustrates his daily life in a diary. At its heart, this series illustrates a modern-day coming-of-age story.

125. Narwhal and Jelly by Ben Clanton

If the whimsical illustrations don’t get you, the story of Narwhal and Jelly surely will. Narwhal and Jelly are best friends who love to explore the ocean.

126. Anne of Green Gables: A Graphic Novel by Mariah Marsden

She has the same flaming red hair and wild imagination as the original Anne-with-an-e, and this graphic novel is the perfect way to introduce a new generation of readers to the classic story of Anne of Green Gables.

127. Captain Underpants Series by Dav Pilkey

Fourth graders George and Harold create a homemade comic book featuring Captain Underpants. But, one day, their imaginary character becomes real. This series is super popular with upper elementary-aged kids.

128. Smile/Sisters/Drama by Raina Telgemeier

Hilarious, relatable, and full of heart—these books are about growing up, family, and friendship.

129. El Deafo by Cece Bell

My daughter read this funny, heartfelt book until it fell apart. It celebrates differences, and shows how a girl with a hearing aid finds her “superpower” (which it turns out, is in fact, the thing that makes her different).

130. The Amulet Series by Kazu Kibuishi

Epic fantasy adventure, monsters, and magic—kids can’t get enough of this thrilling graphic novel series. It’s beloved by even the most reluctant readers.

131. Anya’s Ghost by Vera Brosgol

A spooky, funny, and smart graphic novel about friendship, secrets, and fitting in. It’s beautiful and fun, and if parents aren’t graphic novel fans, this is a great place to dive in and read something that you can share with your kids.

How to Use This List to Find Your Child’s Next Favorite Book

Great, you’ve got the list! Now, how do you use it?

Does Reading Level Matter?

Not really! Let your kids pick books that will interest them. Don’t worry if the book is too easy or too hard to read to themselves. You can read it aloud if it’s too hard, and not every book needs to be a challenge, sometimes it’s fun for kids to read books that are easy for them to read. FWIW, I’m a pretty great (adult) reader, and I love to reread Nancy Drew books and favorite middle reader books to help me fall asleep! Look for books on subjects that match your kids interest, favorite authors, or even just pictures that intrigue them.

Series vs Standalones

Reading series is a great way to get kids excited to keep reading to find out what happens next. If a book is a standalone, and your child likes it, they may like other books like it or by the same author.

Helping Reluctant Readers

Reluctant readers are just kids who haven’t found the right book! Let them start with silly books, books that are easy to read, or books that are mainly pictures. Find what interests them! If they’re video gamer players, look for books about those characters or set in that world. If they love sports, books about that sport are a great place to get them to love reading. 

Manga, graphic novels, and comic books are all fun reads for kids that are reluctant to curl up with a hefty, serious tome.

Choosing Books for Gifts and Trips

For gifts, think about what the recipient loves and get a book about that topic, be it computers, horses, sports, or fantasy. Choose something off this list, where parents of kids of all ages and reading abilities have vouched for the book being a hit with kids. 

If the book is for a trip, choose a book that’s interactive in some way. That might be a game with puzzles you can solve, a choose your own adventure, or with pictures that enhance the words. If you’re heading on a road trip, look for audio books that the whole family can enjoy together.

FAQ for Best Books for Kids

What are the best books for kids right now?
The best books for kids are ones they truly enjoy reading—which means anything they choose! That can mean funny picture books, never-ending early reader series, middle-grade adventures, YA page-turners and romances, graphic novels, and nonfiction that reflects kids’ interests. This list includes over 100 books parents have watched their kids actually devour.

How was this list of the best kids’ books chosen?
It was curated by real parents, not critics. Every book on the list is one I (or other parents at Mommy Poppins) personally watched kids read voluntarily at home—they are all dog-eared, re-read, and beloved.

What age groups does the Best Kids’ Books list cover?
It includes picture books (ages 0–6), beginning readers (6–8), middle readers/tweens (8–12), and YA (12–18) plus nonfiction, poetry, and graphic novels for all ages.

Are these classic children’s books or new ones?
Both. The list includes timeless classics kids still love and brand-new books that have exploded in popularity in the last few years.

What books are best for reluctant readers?
Graphic novels, funny (farty) chapter books, middle-grade adventure series, and nonfiction tied to a child’s interests are all excellent choices.

How do I know which books are right for my child’s reading level?
Don’t worry about reading level too much! You know your child’s general reading level by age, but if they want to read “up” or read “down” in age or ability, let them! The goal of reading at home is to read for fun and enjoyment, not for grades or glory.

Why rely on parent recommendations instead of critics?
Parents see firsthand which books kids choose voluntarily, return to repeatedly, and truly love—making us the most reliable source for actual favorites.

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