These are our top-drawer recommendations that appeal to both heart and head of young readers. They are of the highest literary quality and will enrich those who spend time with them. The wisdom and goodness of these books make them classics of the highest order.
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
This is the favorite book of all your favorite authors, including J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and A. A. Milne. If you doubt that statement, read the first chapter of the book next to The Hobbit, or find the origin of that resonant line in The Voyage of the Dawn Treader “the cure had begun,” or search for Milne’s praise for the treasured classic. There is no more exquisitely written story for children readers that better affirms the virtues of faithful friendship. Really, the book is about so much more. It is about all manner of good things wrapped up into one glorious life-affirming story young readers will never forget.
The Curdie books by George MacDonald, The Princess and the Goblin and The Princess and Curdie
Here again, we find a book loved by the authors we love. And what a joy it is to trace through lists of readings that influenced the authors we most admire. G. K. Chesterton called the first book in MacDonald’s duology “the most real, the most realistic, in the exact sense of the phrase the most like life.” This is high praise from Chesterton. He also declared that the book “made a difference to [his] whole existence.”
The Hobbit
This is the perfect place for young readers to begin their engagement with Tolkien’s stories. What more can be said of this perennial classic that hasn’t already been said? For most people, exploring Tolkien’s legendarium starts here, with a Hobbit reluctant to emerge from his Hobbit hole, and, as the first page says, “that means comfort.” But not for long. For Bilbo is drawn into marvelous adventure that will change his life for good.
The Chronicles of Narnia
Here is another beloved series of children’s books that never fails to charm and enrich young readers. This is a set to own in as many formats as possible and to enjoy over and over. In their sheer variety of characters, places, and conflicts, these stories have few peers. Indeed, the map of Narnia is a veritable map of the spiritual realm and guide to its greatest truths.
A Wrinkle in Time series by Madeleine L’Engle
Twenty-six publishers rejected the first book only to see the series in continuous print since 1962 and become one of the most beloved collections in modern’s children’s literature. L’Engle seems to agree with Tolkien when he considers it a mistake to write "down" to children. Science, fantasy, and big ideas all find their way naturally in these smartly written and deeply satisfying books.
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
This recommendation might seem a little out of the league of these literary classics, but over time Juster’s book has held up exceedingly well and is loved by countless appreciative readers. The story takes readers on an adventure through the values of learning on both sides of the brain, or both sides of life, in this exploration of the two kingdoms of knowledge. Milo and his companions embark on a fun and laugh-out-loud journey that will delight readers of all ages.
The Dark Is Rising series - Susan Cooper
Cooper's award-winning series reimagines the Arthurian tales in a modern setting. She writes with thick atmosphere and clear sense of place. All the while, her relatable characters discover they might have more connection to ancient stories than they realize.
Smith of Wooten Major by J. R. R. Tolkien
This often overlooked classic by Tolkien deserves a wider audience than it currently has. Overshadowed by Tolkien’s more well known works, Smith of Wooten Major is a minor masterpiece from his pen about whence comes the joys of story. The characters are well drawn, the narrative voice sure, and the lessons unforgettable.
The Light Princess by George MacDonald
The Light Princess is one of many fairy tales from the master of the form, as C. S. Lewis regarded him. Said Lewis, “What he does best is fantasy—fantasy that hovers between the allegorical and the mythopoeic. And this, in my opinion, he does better than any man.” This fairy tale also holds its own against modern love stories. This is a book that might even be introduced as “the greatest love story in modern literature.” If you think that is too high praise, read it for yourself, or better yet read it to your children. Act out the parts, include your children in the reading-performance, and watch the magic begin. A really beautiful edition you might consider is the one illustrated by Maurice Sendak (published by Farrar, Straus, Giroux and still available at the time of this writing here, here, or here).
At the Back of the Northwind by George MacDonald
I add this recommendation with a qualifier. MacDonald wrote this book to explain the loss of death to children. It is an ambitious undertaking and one of his best stories. But obviously he is dealing with serious issues for anyone (at any age) to contemplate. The story of little Diamond is endearing and ultimately redemptive. And while it is a timeless tale, sometimes a special need arises for a story like this. There is nothing else quite like it among MacDonald’s books.
