Best Children's Books to Read (or Listen to) as an Adult
Madeline L’Engle, one of my all time most favorite authors, once said “You have to write the book that wants to be written. And if that book will be too difficult for grown-ups, then you write it for children.”
As someone who has spent several years teaching children to read and trying to pick out books that will be interesting to listen to being read aloud multiple times for weeks at a time I’ve cultivated quite the list of children’s books that I firmly believe should be read (again) by adults. (And will be enjoyed by all if you have to hear it every night for weeks.)
The Little Prince by Antione De Saint-Exupery
Originally written in French it holds up just as beautifully in English.
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L’Engle
First in a four part series that is unlike any other.
Peter and the Star Catchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
(Eight year old boys love this one, only trouble is when they think the pirates are cooler than the protagonists, but boys will be boys)
The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Technically this series begins with The Magician’s Nephew but reading that prequal isn’t required (though, it is also fantastic).
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
We could all use a friend like Charlotte.
The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
Part of a series that vaguely resembles the classic film based off this truly wild adventure tale. The books include so much more than just the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda!
The Lorax by Dr. Seuss
Shouldn’t we all be reminded to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves?
A Ring of Endless Light by Madeline L’Engle
Yes, I know this is from the middle of the series but it also works as a standalone novel. I first read it in sixth grade (I was 12) and it has remained one of my favorite books to this day. This one is absolutely not for the littles, however I couldn’t leave it off the list completely as middle grade readers will enjoy it as a precursor to YA novels and adults will enjoy it as well!