Three years ago, at the start of the pandemic, our family, like many others, went on furlough. We decided to spend each weekend outside, primitive camping. It was during that time that we started a special tradition. We would read stories together, listen to the audiobook on our camping trips and then snuggle up to watch the movie or t.v. series. It was, truly, a COVID silver lining. It brought so much comfort and joy that I didn’t want it to end. And it hasn’t!
As a parent, I want to share stories with my kids that can carry them through each stage of life. Books serve as a wonderful vehicle for connection and growth, from reading bedtime stories as toddlers to sharing memories during long car rides when they are tweens and beyond. Searching for books to share with the kids can be a daunting task. My kids are four years apart, but beyond that, their interests and ability levels are so different. Finding authors we can read together and grow into as they age is something special.
Today, my family is sharing our list of favorites with you. These authors range in difficulty level so that no matter where your child is on their learning path–they’ll have something captivating and inspiring for the entire family to enjoy!
Beautiful Illustrations. Warm and colorful characters.
- Peter Brown is at the top of our list! We first found Peter Brown with Mr. Tiger Goes Wild. The Illustrations alone are worth picking up any of his books. He has an Imaginative take on the world that encourages critical thinking in ways we haven’t experienced with any other author. The Wild Robot series is a favorite for our older reader.
- Kate DiCamillo Her Mercy Watson series will have you laughing out loud. These are great short chapter picture books. Her character development is unmatched.
The Tiger Rising even inspired my boys to start writing poetry. - Long before we had heard of a Series of Unfortunate Events, we loved Lemony Snicket’s The Dark, a collaboration with another favorite, Jon Klassen. Not as dark as his series for older readers, this picture book is relatable and imaginatively illustrated.
A stroll down memory lane.
These three authors need no explanation. Our family has been able to enjoy the favorites of my youth. Each of these authors has a formidable lifetime catalog of work, from picture books to adult fiction.
New to us and worth checking out.
- Jacqueline Woodson is best known for her memoir Brown Girl Dreaming. Her picture books The Day You Begin and The Year We Learned to Fly are great for your younger ones.
- Neil Gaiman even has his own Master Class, where he teaches you how he conjures up new ideas, convincing characters, and vivid fictional worlds.
Last but not least.
Each of these authors’ bodies of work spans the spectrum and entertains readers young and old alike. So whether it’s curling up together during storytime or watching the pride glow on your teen’s face when an iconic character appears in the latest movie franchise – let these beloved authors bring magic into your home for years to come. And who knows – maybe you’ll even find a new favorite book or two yourself along the way.
Happy reading!
I’m sad that the youngest is growing out of picture books! Some of the best combine such good illustrations and thick paper with such concise storytelling and sweet stories! ”I want my hat back” by Jon Klaussen is another one on that list!
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