Reading is one of the most valuable habits a child can develop. Books not only entertain but also educate, inspire, and broaden horizons. The right books can help children understand the world around them, foster empathy, and instill a love for learning. In this blog, we’ve curated a list of eighteen essential books every child should read before adulthood.
These books cover a range of themes, from friendship and courage to identity and resilience, and are timeless treasures that will stay with them for life.
Charlotte’s Web, E.B. White
Synopsis: Charlotte’s Web tells the heartwarming story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur’s life is in danger, Charlotte plans to save him by weaving words into her web. The tale is a beautiful exploration of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life.
Why should a child read this book? This book teaches children about the power of friendship and the importance of selflessness. It also gently yet impactfully introduces them to the concept of mortality.
Date of Publishing: October 15, 1952
Reading Time: 3-4 hours
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, J.K. Rowling
Synopsis: The first book in the Harry Potter series introduces readers to a young boy who discovers he is a wizard. Harry embarks on an adventure at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he learns about magic, friendship, and the struggle between good and evil.
Why should a child read this book? This book encourages imagination and creativity while also teaching valuable lessons about bravery, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
Date of Publishing: June 26, 1997
Reading Time: 5-6 hours
To Kill a Mockingbird, Harper Lee
Synopsis: Set in the Deep South during the 1930s, To Kill a Mockingbird is a powerful story about racial injustice and moral growth. The novel follows young Scout Finch, whose father, a lawyer, defends a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman. Through Scout’s eyes, readers experience the complexities of human nature and the struggle for justice.
Why should a child read this book? This book introduces children to issues of racism, empathy, and integrity. It also encourages them to think critically about fairness and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
Date of Publishing: July 11, 1960
Reading Time: 6-8 hours
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, C.S. Lewis
Synopsis: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is the first book in The Chronicles of Narnia series. It follows the adventures of four siblings who discover a magical world inside a wardrobe. In Narnia, they encounter talking animals, a wicked witch, and a noble lion named Aslan, who leads them in a battle between good and evil.
Why should a child read this book? This story teaches children about courage, sacrifice, and the triumph of good over evil. It also encourages imagination and introduces them to the concept of allegory.
Date of Publishing: October 16, 1950
Reading Time: 4-5 hours
The Giver, Lois Lowry
Synopsis: The Giver is a dystopian novel about Jonas, a young boy living in a seemingly perfect society. When he is chosen to be the Receiver of Memories, he discovers the dark truths behind his community’s facade and begins to question the meaning of life and freedom.
Why should a child read this book? This book introduces children to complex themes such as individuality, conformity, and the value of emotions. It encourages them to think about the importance of choice and the role of memory in shaping our lives.
Date of Publishing: April 26, 1993
Reading Time: 4-5 hours
Anne of Green Gables, L.M. Montgomery
Synopsis: Anne of Green Gables follows the life of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and spirited orphan who is mistakenly sent to live with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert. Despite her rough start, Anne’s vibrant personality endears her to the community of Avonlea, and she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
Why should a child read this book? This book teaches children the value of imagination, perseverance, and kindness. It also highlights the importance of finding one’s place in the world and the beauty of nature.
Date of Publishing: June 1908
Reading Time: 6-7 hours
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Mark Twain
Synopsis: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a classic American novel that follows the journey of Huck Finn and a runaway slave named Jim as they navigate the Mississippi River. The book is a profound exploration of race, friendship, and freedom set against the backdrop of pre-Civil War America.
Why should a child read this book? This novel provides insight into historical issues of racism and slavery while also emphasizing the importance of friendship and moral integrity. It encourages children to question societal norms and think independently.
Date of Publishing: December 10, 1884
Reading Time: 8-10 hours
Matilda, Roald Dahl
Synopsis: Matilda is the story of a young girl with extraordinary intelligence and telekinetic powers. Despite her neglectful parents and a tyrannical school principal, Matilda uses her wits and powers to stand up for herself and her friends, ultimately finding a sense of belonging.
Why should a child read this book? It inspires children to value intelligence and fight injustice. It also encourages them to embrace their uniqueness and believe in their abilities.
Date of Publishing: October 1, 1988
Reading Time: 3-4 hours
Where the Red Fern Grows, Wilson Rawls
Synopsis: Where the Red Fern Grows is a heartwarming tale of a boy named Billy and his deep bond with his two hunting dogs, Old Dan and Little Ann. Set in the Ozarks, the story follows their adventures and the life lessons Billy learns about loyalty, love, and loss.
Why should a child read this book? This book teaches children about the importance of perseverance, the bond between humans and animals, and how to cope with grief. It also instills a sense of appreciation for nature and the outdoors.
Date of Publishing: September 1, 1961
Reading Time: 6-7 hours
Wonder, R.J. Palacio
Synopsis: Wonder tells the story of August Pullman, a young boy with a facial deformity, as he enters mainstream school for the first time. The book explores themes of acceptance, kindness, and the challenges of being different, all while following Auggie’s journey to find his place in the world.
Why should a child read this book? This book teaches the importance of empathy, kindness, and acceptance of others. It also encourages children to embrace their uniqueness and to stand up against bullying.
Date of Publishing: February 14, 2012
Reading Time: 5-6 hours
The Secret Garden, Frances Hodgson Burnett
Synopsis: The Secret Garden is a classic tale of transformation and healing. The story follows Mary Lennox, a sour and neglected girl who discovers a hidden garden at her uncle’s estate. As she tends to the garden, Mary’s heart begins to heal, and she forms deep bonds with the people around her.
Why should a child read this book? This book teaches children about the power of nature, the importance of compassion, and the possibility of personal growth. It also encourages an appreciation for the beauty of the natural world.
Date of Publishing: 1911
Reading Time: 5-6 hours
Bridge to Terabithia, Katherine Paterson
Synopsis: Bridge to Terabithia is a poignant story about friendship and loss. It follows Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke, two friends who create an imaginary world called Terabithia. The novel explores themes of creativity, courage, and the harsh realities of life.
Why should a child read this book? This book helps children understand the complexities of grief and loss while celebrating the power of imagination and friendship. It encourages emotional resilience and the importance of cherishing meaningful relationships.
Date of Publishing: October 21, 1977
Reading Time: 3-4 hours
Holes, Louis Sachar
Synopsis: Holes is a unique tale about a boy named Stanley Yelnats, who is sent to a juvenile detention camp where he must dig holes daily as punishment. The story weaves together multiple narratives, including family curses and buried treasure, to create a compelling adventure with themes of justice and redemption.
Why should a child read this book? This book teaches about the power of perseverance, the value of friendship, and the idea that everyone has the potential for growth and change. It also encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.
Date of Publishing: August 20, 1998
Reading Time: 4-5 hours
Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
Synopsis: The Lightning Thief is the first book in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. It follows Percy Jackson, a young boy who discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon. Percy embarks on a journey to prevent a war among the gods, facing mythical creatures and uncovering ancient mysteries.
Why should a child read this book? This book introduces children to Greek mythology in a modern context while teaching lessons about bravery, loyalty, and the importance of knowing one’s identity. It also encourages a love for adventure and learning about different cultures.
Date of Publishing: July 28, 2005
Reading Time: 5-6 hours
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Synopsis: The Little Prince is a philosophical tale about a young prince who travels from planet to planet, meeting various inhabitants and learning profound life lessons. The story explores love, loss, and the search for meaning in life.
Why should a child read this book? This book encourages children to see the world with wonder and curiosity. It also teaches about the importance of love and friendship and the deeper meaning of life beyond materialistic pursuits.
Date of Publishing: July 28, 2005
Reading Time: 5-6 hours
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Lewis Carroll
Synopsis: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland* is a fantastical tale of a young girl named Alice who falls down a rabbit hole into a bizarre and whimsical world. The story has strange characters, illogical events, and playful language, making it a timeless classic that celebrates imagination.
Why should a child read this book? This book encourages creativity and thinking outside the box. It also teaches children to question the world around them and embrace life’s absurdity and wonder.
Date of Publishing: November 26, 1865
Reading Time: 3-4 hours
The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien
Synopsis: The Hobbit is the tale of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is reluctantly drawn into an adventure with a group of dwarves to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug. Bilbo encounters trolls, elves, and other mythical creatures along the way and discovers his courage and resourcefulness.
Why should a child read this book? This book teaches about the importance of bravery, adventure, and self-discovery. It also introduces children to fantasy and the joy of exploring richly imagined worlds.
Date of Publishing: September 21, 1937
Reading Time: 7-8 hours
Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
Synopsis: Goodnight Moon is a classic bedtime story that gently lulls children to sleep with its rhythmic text and soothing illustrations. The book follows a young bunny’s bedtime ritual of saying goodnight to everything in his room and the world around him.
Why should a child read this book? This book provides a calming and comforting reading experience for young children. It helps establish bedtime routines and fosters a sense of security and peace as they drift off to sleep.
Date of Publishing: September 3, 1947
Reading Time: 5-10 minutes
Books can shape our minds, build our character, and open up worlds of possibilities. The 18 books listed here are more than just stories; they are life lessons wrapped in the beauty of literature. They teach values, spark imagination, and provide comfort and inspiration to young readers.
After all, encouraging children to read these books before adulthood is one of the best gifts we can give them, laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning, empathy, and adventure.
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