Weekly Lists #158: Favorite Children’s Classics

There’s some books that, probably, just about every kid has read, right? You know the ones – on your set reading list, not that much cuz you had to read them… That’s not all there is to it, though! Here’s 5 of my favorite children’s classics! (And let me tell you: we’re going old school here!)

1. Peter Rabbit, Beatrix Potter

This book should be a part of every child’s first library. Even if just because of the images! What’s more, though, all of Beatrix Potter’s story are perfect for reading to someone and for reading yourself. That perfect sense of nostalgia combined with smart story telling and great illustrations? A must. (Goodreads)

2. Ballet Shoes, Noel Streatfield

If you want a children’s book that takes you right back to the start of the 20th century? Preferably one with orphans (because we all know they make for excellent stories…) and ballet and female empowerment and just… All the things? Then this is the one for you. Also, there’s a movie adaptation with Emma Watson, so there’s that 🙂 (Goodreads)

3. Alice in Wonderland, Lewis Caroll

Magical realism. Or just magic, you know. There’s something about this story that never ceases to please me. But here’s a fun fact: the reason I first actually fell in love with this book? Because it is used as a way to explain the physics of life in The Time and Space of Uncle Albert. After I read that one, I wanted to actually read the original – just to appreciate how well it was adapted. Turns out I then actually fell in love with the original.

4. Peter Pan

This is one of my favorite stories ever. With one of my favorite movie adaptations ever.

This is the first movie I ever remember seeing in cinema’s. That is also the first scene I ever remember crying at. And to this day, that is the soundtrack I put on if I’m feeling bad. And Hook? The movie with Robin Williams? To this day, one of my most favorite films ever. Although I will always think it a petty they deleted the epilogue from the 2003 movie, as that is exactly the ending that makes the book so powerful.

5. Mary Poppins

Back in the day when those were still a thing, we had a little cassette with the audio book for Mary Poppins. Any time we had to go on a long drive, we would be listening to this story. And I still remember that the actor playing Michael would speak too softly, so we always had to turn the volume way up. Either way, that little cassette made me love the story of Mary Poppins. And of course, you know… The musical didn’t make it worse 🙂

Anyways, that’s 5 of my favorite children’s classics. Are there any others that you think should have been in this list? Be sure to let me know below!

-Saar