Childhood Favorites

Before thrillers and plot twists, these were the books that made me love reading in the first place. From bedtime rhymes to dancing sheep, these were the characters and pages I adored as a little kid. If you’re looking for cozy nostalgia or the perfect reads for younger kids, these are the stories that shaped my earliest book-loving memories.

Make Way for Ducklings – Robert McCloskey

A sweet story about a duck family trying to find the perfect home in Boston.

Why it’s great: The illustrations are iconic, and the ducks are adorable. This one is a childhood classic.

The Sneetches – Dr. Seuss

Star-Belly vs. Plain-Belly Sneetches learn a lesson about inclusion and equality.

Why it’s great: Funny, rhyming, and meaningful. A total classic that sticks with you.

Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel – Virginia Lee Burton

Mike and his trusty steam shovel, Mary Anne, prove they still have what it takes.

Why it’s great: It’s all about loyalty, hard work, and never giving up. I loved the retro illustrations and how proud I felt for Mary Anne.

Bear Snores On – Karma Wilson

A sleepy bear hibernates while other animals throw a cozy winter party in his den.

Why it’s great: The rhymes are so fun, and the bear is just the cutest. This one always made me smile (and want hot cocoa).

Snoozers – Sandra Boynton

A collection of silly bedtime stories told in Sandra Boynton’s iconic rhyme style.

Why it’s great: Hilarious, random, and perfect for winding down. I begged for this one every night.

Simpson’s Sheep Won’t Go to Sleep! – Bruce Arant

A farmer tries everything to get his sheep to settle down for the night.

Why it’s great: It’s super cute and silly with fun rhymes. I always giggled at the sheep’s wild antics.

Green Eggs and Ham – Dr. Seuss

A picky eater is finally convinced to try something new—and loves it.

Why it’s great: It’s the ultimate “don’t knock it till you try it” story. Plus, the rhythm is just so fun to read out loud.

Pajama Time – Sandra Boynton

A goofy, lovable bedtime book about putting on your PJs and getting ready to snooze.

Why it’s great: So silly and sing-songy. I knew every word and read it before every bedtime.

The Complete Adventures of Curious George – Margret & H.A. Rey

George is a curious little monkey who always finds himself in some kind of (adorable) trouble.

Why it’s great: Mischief, monkeys, and heartwarming endings. I loved following George’s little adventures and rooting for him.

Rainbow Magic (Series) – Daisy Meadows

Two girls team up with fairies to save Fairyland from dark magic—one book for each fairy.

Why it’s great: I was OBSESSED with collecting them all. They were sparkly, fast reads, and the fairies were everything.

The Baby-Sitters Club (Series) – Ann M. Martin

A group of middle school girls start a babysitting business and navigate friendship, growing up, and drama.

Why it’s great: It felt like getting advice from older sisters. I loved the different personalities and how real their lives felt—even the drama.

Happy reading, book lovers!