We are huge reading fans over at Brown Bunny Photography. My parents read to us a lot when we were tiny, and I learned how to read by myself really early in the game. One of my favorite things to do as a child was to visit the Bookmobile, a large box truck the library drove around that was outfitted with shelves and what seemed to be a zillion books. The rule was that you could check out as many as you could carry, so I would walk away arms extended as far as they would go, loaded up to my fingertips.
I polled my old age friends to see what books they remembered from their childhoods and gathered the top five for you. I have very fond memories of four of these and the fifth was recommended by a teacher's mom, so you know she has read it eleventy billion times. If she is STILL recommending it, it has to be great!
Miss Twiggley's Tree
by Dorothea Warren Fox
This was, and still is my all-time favorite children's book. It is perfect to read aloud and perfect for young readers. This charming story follows Miss Twiggley, a shy, eccentric woman who lives in a treehouse and is friends with bears. The book is beautifully illustrated and encourages children to use their imagination. The illustrations really are my favorite part. There is so much going on in each picture, like little subplots that help tell the story. It teaches valuable lessons about friendship and accepting others for who they are. 10/10 parents agree that they can read this book every night for a year and not want to scream.
This book is recommended for kids ages 2-7.
"Harold and the Purple Crayon"
by Crockett Johnson
This classic book follows the adventures of a young boy named Harold who uses his purple crayon to create his own world. The simplicity and creativity of the story are what have made it a favorite of children for generations. The illustrations are simple yet captivating, and the storyline inspires creativity and imagination in children of all ages.
This book is recommended for preschool age kids.
"Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel"
by Virginia Lee Burton
Somewhere in my mom's attic is a tattered version of this one. It was much loved by many, many kids. Originally published in 1939, it was vintage even when I was a kid.
This book tells the story of Mike Mulligan and his steam shovel, Mary Anne, who is determined to prove their worth despite the rise of more modern machinery. The book teaches children the importance of friendship, perseverance, and ingenuity. The illustrations are charming and were one of my favorite parts of this book.
This book is recommended for ages 2-8.
"Make Way for Ducklings"
by Robert McCloskey
This Caldecott Medal-winning book tells the story of a family of ducks who make their home in the heart of Boston. The book is full of charming illustrations and teaches children about the importance of family and community. The story also has a wonderful message about finding a safe and happy place to call home. This one is ideal for reading aloud and is full of wonderful illustrations. My sister (a teacher) had this one on her shortlist, so you know it is good.
This book is recommended for children ages 2-6.
"I'm Going on a Bear Hunt"
by Michael Rosen
I hesitated to add this one in as it is kind of like "The Song that Never Ends". We LOVED this book when I was a kid. We sang/quoted it endlessly on long car rides, and I am sure made our parents CRAZY! This beloved book follows a family as they embark on a thrilling adventure to find a bear. The book is full of fun rhymes and repetitive phrases that make it perfect for maximum annoyance...er... fun. Read this one at your own risk.
This book is recommended for ages 2-6, but I distinctly recall singing when I was much older. There is actually a car commercial running right now that uses the singsong.
Vintage children's books have a special place in our hearts. You can often pick up well-loved copies at antique stores and second-hand bookstores. All five of these are also available on Amazon by following the link buttons. There are so many truly excellent new books for kids, but it is fun to go back and read some of these classics to mix up your bedtime reading. Enjoy!
Does your child have a favorite book? We often incorporate these into our photo sessions. How fun to look back one day and say "Oh my goodness! We read that book a million times when you were little!"
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