Must-Read Books for Kids
Not every classic book came out more than 50 years ago -- some more recent releases have the same kind of timeless quality and staying power. They're the books that get dog-eared from being handed down to siblings, the ones that shoot through a classroom faster than chicken pox, touted as the hottest new discovery. We think they deserve a must-read list of their own. Here are our picks for kid-tested modern classics for every age.
- Silliness that appeals to preschoolers.By Mo Willems
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Colorfully illustrated alphabet rhymes.By Bill Martin Jr. -
2011 Caldecott winner celebrates caring for one another.By Philip Christian Stead -
Ramona helps young kids build empathy.
By Beverly Cleary -
A sure hit with kids starting chapter books.By Annie Barrows -
Heartless toy finds love in a cruel world.By Kate DiCamillo -
A great read-aloud or discussion group book.By Kate DiCamillo -
Magical start of bestselling Potter phenomenon.
By J. K. Rowling -
A cliff-hanging adventure wrapped in black humor.By Lemony Snicket -
This poignant novel is one of the best around.By Kate DiCamillo -
Well-crafted tale of an orphan's search for home.By Christopher Paul Curtis -
Humorous and moving story has an edge.By Louis Sachar -
Every story has value in robust, nostalgic Newbery winner.By Clare Vanderpool -
A riveting utopian novel that's expertly crafted.
By Lois Lowry -
Boy genius trains to crush alien invasion in sci-fi classic.
By Orson Scott Card -
Popular series debut demonstrates good girl friendships.By Ann Brashares -
Exciting, provocative tale of lethal reality show.
By Suzanne Collins -
Story of ostracized kid a timeless fave of teens, preteens.
By S. E. Hinton -
Powerful testament to humanity in Nazi Germany.
By Markus Zusak -
Provocative book about teen on trial for murder.
By Walter Dean Myers -
Funny, gritty, and powerful novel of growing up on the rez.By Sherman Alexie -
Controversial book about rape is powerful and painful.By Laurie Halse Anderson -
Vonnegut's time-travel classic best for mature teen readers.By Kurt Vonnegut
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