The Very Best Story Books

Reading to children is a wonderful activity and past time that both parents and teachers enjoy. Seeing their rapt, excited faces when there's a mystery to be solved, a surprise twist, or a happy ending is all the reward one needs. Not only are story books a child's first experience with written words and an introduction to education, but they are also a way to stimulate imagination and dreams.

Kid Lit! aims to share some of the best titles in children's literature, and showcase authors that continue to charm our hearts and open our minds to new possibilities. With the right books, and a dedicated reader, children can be inspired to reach the highest heights. This is a selection of some of the best books for kids, from newborn to 8 years.

Story time is one of the most wonderful things about being a child. Whether it's fun and silly, with plenty of 'audience participation', or calm and relaxing, reading with someone you love is what makes books so precious.

When you read to a child, not only are you sharing something magical with them, but you are preparing them for all the learning they will do in their lives. Every time you sit down together with your favorite story, you encourage a love of reading - something that they will use forever.

Books are so much more than words and pictures. Each one has a message, as lesson that can help kids make good decisions and have high hopes. They are windows into other places, times and worlds, and can teach us many things.

The very next time you have the chance, read to someone close to you! They'll be glad you did.

These stories have been around for generations, and are still best sellers and favorites in many families. These tried and true books will be around as long as parents pass on their love for great stories and enjoyable reading. Many of these classic books have lasted because kids have such a great time reading them. They're fun and exciting, and have beautiful and interesting illustrations. You're sure to find a cherished favorite on this list!

The quick, quirky tales of Roger Hargreaves make great collectible stories. There are so many wonderful characters and adventures to choose from, with funny lessons to learn!

Theodor Seuss Geisel was born in 1904, in Springfield Massachusetts. He credits his mother with his gift for rhyme. Henrietta Suess Geisel had worked in a bakery before being married, and had a habit of chanting the daily pie specials to customers. When young Ted had trouble falling asleep, she would sing these pie chants to him. Little did she know that she would inspire some of the most treasured books of all time.

He first used the name Seuss when secretly contributing to Jack-O-Lantern magazine at Dartmouth College. Later he would add Dr. as a tribute to his father, who had hoped that he would earn a doctorate at Oxford.

His first children's book, And To Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street was published in 1937.

Dr. Seuss wrote three more, then used his talents to help the war effort. He returned to children's literature after the war, and would eventually write the books that we all know and love.

A.A. Milne's creations are more than 70 years old, yet parents and kids come back to them again and again. Although the characters of the 100 Acre Wood were adopted by Disney and given a fresh new look, the classic Pooh (aka Edward Bear) stories are still a timeless favorite.

Did you know that Winne the Pooh was inspired not only by A. A. Milne's son, Christopher Robin, but also by a black bear residing at the London Zoo? She was the pet of a soldier from Canada, and was adopted by the Zoo during World War One.

Travelling all the way from White River, Manitoba, the bear cub named Winnie would one day become everyone's favorite bear.

These story books from the 1980s and 1990s were cherished favorites for kids. Though they may not have the same staying power as some other classic books, they are certainly number one in the hearts of today's parents. With funny, quirky stories and fun illustrations, these books inspire nostalgia wherever they go.

This author's inspired works are a joyful addition to any children's library. From Jillian Jiggs to original fairy tales, she delights young readers with her imagination and humor. Many of her stories are inspired by her own children and grandchildren.

Sandra Boynton's board books are great for toddlers, but don't be surprised if bigger kids love them, too! They are fun to read over and over, and parents will appreciate the easy rhymes that never get old.

A good book can be enjoyed by even the youngest of readers.

Especially if it's easy to chew on.

Although kids benefit from a great story, and love being read to, parents often find that some books are made just for them. Sentimental stories and poems that they can share with kids and grandchildren are a special treat. These books make wonderful gifts for new parents, and are a perfect first book for newborns, and even those yet to be born.

Visiting the library is a wonderful outing for kids, and for parents and caregivers, too. By borrowing books from your local branch, you're not only saving money, but helping to make sure that every child has a chance to enjoy a world of books.

Most library cards are free, and even kids can get their own. This is a great way to teach them about responsibility in a way that you remain involved in. They'll enjoy knowing that the books they borrow are theirs for so many days, and that the librarians are counting on them to bring them back safe.

The library can also be a great place to shop for used and rare books, as many branches sell remainders and donations that they can no longer use. You never know what you might find in the discard section for just a few cents!

To help keep the library open, attend events and fundraisers whenever you can. Many libraries offer programs for kids, like song and story clubs for a small donation.

With your help, libraries can continue to support literacy for everyone, and spread the joy of reading!

Somewhere between Bath Time and Bedtime comes Story Time. It's a magical time where little ones get comfy, wind down, and get ready for sweet dreams.

While exciting and stupendous stories are great to get the imagination going, some stories were made just for bedtime. They encourage peaceful, restful nights and good mornings. These stories are sure to be bedtime favorites.

Every children's library needs a healthy dose of Robert Munsch tales. Since 1979 his books have been delighting families and even changing lives. Thanks to his many years working in daycare, many of his stories have the power to help kids change their minds about things like bedtime, bath time and seeing the good in everyone.

Robert Munsch was one of nine kids, born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He moved with his wife to Guelph, Ontario, and that is where he began to pen the stories he had created when working as a caregiver. He currently has 42 published works to his name.

His journey to a career as a children's author is one that can encourage everyone to find their own path. Although he didn't do well academically, he is now one of the best selling authors in Canada. His tribute to parents and lost children - Love You Forever - had sold over 18,000,000 copies by 1999.

Robert Munsch is known for his generosity and love of children. He's a favorite guest speaker, or just plain old guest. Many of his books are based on his experiences staying with families while on book tours. And just has he teaches children with his stories, they teach him valuable lessons as well!

"Where you are depends on how you get there. Which is the story of my life and yours too..."

Though many titles get passed on from generation to generation, and thousands of new books are printed every year, once in a while something comes along that skyrockets to instant success.

These books are the classics of the future, written by authors who grew up reading the same favorites, and are now sharing their own imagination with today's kids.

Everyone has a favorite author - a name they trust to provide wonderul, inspiring literature for their family. Who is your 'go-to' writer? What name is on the cover of your favorite books?

Add your favorite story book to the list and share your love of reading!

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