Let your inner child rejoice on International Children’s Book Day with these best books for kids that will take you on magical adventures and reignite your love for storytelling!
Books have the power to ignite imagination, spark curiosity, and transport us to different worlds. From talking animals to magical lands, from brave heroes to mischievous villains, children’s books have the ability to captivate readers of all ages.
So, if you’re looking for a way to commemorate this special day, why not pick up one of these 15+ best children’s books and take a journey into a world of wonder and adventure?
So grab a cozy spot, and a cup of hot cocoa, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of children’s literature! Get ready to laugh, learn, and be swept away by these timeless tales and books for children!
19 Best Children’s Books For International Children’s Book Day
1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
“The Very Hungry Caterpillar” is a beloved children’s book written and illustrated by Eric Carle. It tells the story of a little caterpillar who eats his way through various foods until he becomes a beautiful butterfly.
The book has been a favorite among children and adults alike since it was first published in 1969.
In recognition of its popularity and impact on children’s literature, it is often celebrated on International Children’s Book Day, a day that promotes reading and literacy among young people around the world.
2. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
“Where the Wild Things Are” is a classic children’s book that takes us on a wild adventure with a naughty boy named Max. Maurice Sendak wrote and illustrated this tale of imagination and adventure and first published in 1963.
It’s a story that has captured the hearts and imaginations of countless children (and adults!) worldwide, making it a perfect choice to celebrate World Children Book Day. So, let the wild rumpus start and get lost in the fantastical world of this book!
3. Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
Are you looking for a children’s book to read before bedtime? Well, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorites – “Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown.
This classic children’s book is a delightful and soothing tale that follows a little bunny as he says goodnight to all the objects in his room.
From the moon to the stars to the cow jumping over the moon, the simple and repetitive text makes it a perfect book for young children to learn and practice their language skills.
4. Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss
Looking for a fun and quirky book to read with your little ones? Look no further than “Green Eggs and Ham” by the one and only Dr. Seuss!
The story follows a character named Sam-I-Am who is trying to convince another character, simply referred to as “you”, to try a dish of green eggs and ham. The character being asked repeatedly refuses to try the dish, stating various reasons for their refusal.
This classic children’s book is a timeless tale of persistence, adventure, and of course, a little bit of silliness. It’s no wonder that “Green Eggs and Ham” is often regarded as one of the best children books to read. So why not grab a copy and let your imaginations run wild?
Related: 25 Life-Changing Novels To Read Once In Your Lifetime
5. Corduroy by Don Freeman
Corduroy is considered a classic of international children’s books, and has been translated into many languages. The story follows the adventures of a teddy bear named Corduroy who lives in a department store.
This book has been praised for its heartwarming story, charming illustrations, and relatable themes of friendship, perseverance, and acceptance.
It has inspired numerous adaptations, including an animated television series and a stage play, and continues to be beloved by generations of readers around the world.
6. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
Charlotte’s Web is known for its themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycle of life, as well as its memorable characters and heartwarming message.
The story revolves around a pig named Wilbur and his unlikely friendship with a spider named Charlotte. It has been adapted into various stage productions, movies, and TV shows, and continues to be a favorite among readers of all ages.
This book is often read on Children’s Book Day, a holiday that encourages the joy of reading and serves as a reminder of the important role that books have in a child’s education and development.
7. The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Let’s celebrate the joy and wonder that comes from reading books and when it comes to heartwarming children’s stories, few can compare to Shel Silverstein’s beloved classic, The Giving Tree.
This short and sweet tale follows the lifelong friendship between a young boy and a generous apple tree. The tree selflessly gives the boy everything it can, from its apples and branches to its trunk and roots, in order to make him happy.
This story reminds us that true happiness comes not from what we take, but from what we give.
8. The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter
The Tale of Peter Rabbit is a charming children’s story written by Beatrix Potter. It follows the mischievous adventures of a young rabbit named Peter, who disobeys his mother’s orders to stay out of Mr. McGregor’s garden.
Despite warnings from his siblings, Peter sneaks into the garden and gets into all sorts of trouble, narrowly escaping capture by the farmer.
With its whimsical illustrations and lovable characters, The Tale of Peter Rabbit is a timeless classic that has delighted generations of young readers.
9. Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans
This children’s book by Ludwig Bemelmans tells the story of a brave little girl named Madeline, who lives in a Parisian boarding school with eleven other girls and their kind but strict headmistress, Miss Clavel.
The beautiful illustrations and charming rhymes make it a beloved classic that has been enjoyed by generations of children. It is an inspiration to young readers to be strong and fearless.
With its timeless themes and lovable characters, Madeline remains a must-read for all children and a perfect choice to celebrate Children Book Day.
10. Curious George by H.A. and Margret Rey
Curious George, created by H.A. and Margret Rey, is a beloved children’s book character who has captured the hearts of readers around the world with his mischievous and playful antics.
With his trademark yellow hat and infectious curiosity, George has become a beloved icon in the world of international children’s books, delighting young readers of all ages with his hilarious adventures and playful spirit
Whether he’s exploring the jungle, causing chaos in the city, or simply enjoying the wonders of the world around him, Curious George never fails to bring a smile to the faces of children everywhere.
Related: 11 Great Books To Read And The Mood That Matches Them
11. The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Get ready to be transported to a magical land of talking animals and enchanted forests in C.S. Lewis’s beloved classic, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe.
Follow the adventures of four siblings as they journey through the mystical land of Narnia and face incredible challenges, all while learning the importance of courage, loyalty, and love.
With International Children’s Book Day just around the corner, there’s no better time to introduce young readers to this timeless tale of wonder and imagination.
12. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Celebrate International Children’s Book Day with the timeless classic, The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett! Join Mary Lennox as she discovers the magic of nature and the healing power of friendship
With its engaging characters and beautifully descriptive prose, this heartwarming tale is a must-read for children of all ages and will inspire them to explore the beauty of the natural world around them.
13. The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams
Experience the heartwarming tale of The Velveteen Rabbit, a beloved classic that should be at the top of every list of best children books to read!
This classic tale follows the story of a beloved toy rabbit who longs to become real. With its timeless themes of love, loyalty, and the power of imagination.
14. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
“The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry is a charming and whimsical tale that will transport you to a world of wonder and imagination.
With its simple yet profound narrative style and beautifully illustrated pages, this timeless classic is a true gem that will capture your heart and inspire your soul.
Join the little prince on his journey through the universe as he discovers the true meaning of love, friendship, and life itself. It’s a story that will leave you enchanted and wanting more.
15. Harold And The Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson
“Harold and the Purple Crayon” is a beloved children’s book written by Crockett Johnson. The story follows a young boy named Harold who, armed only with a purple crayon, sets off on an imaginative adventure.
As Harold draws with his crayon, he creates a world full of surprises and obstacles for him to overcome. The story is a testament to the power of imagination and the limitless possibilities that can be created with a simple tool like a crayon.
16. Kiki’s Delivery Service by Eiko Kadono
This International Children Book day, join Kiki’s Delivery Service and embark on a delightful adventure. This children’s book by Eiko Kadono is what inspired the very loved and famous animated series of the same.
It is about a young witch named Kiki who sets off on her own to start her own delivery service along with her black cat Jiji.
Kiki navigates through the ups and downs of running a business, while also making new friends and discovering her own strengths and abilities.
Full of whimsy and magic, humor, and heart, this fun and exciting read is perfect for young readers and adults alike. So grab a copy and get ready for an unforgettable adventure of Kiki’s Delivery service!
17. The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond
This International Children’s Book Day read “The Blue Umbrella” by Ruskin Bond, a delightful tale that will capture your heart with its simplicity and charm.
Set against the backdrop of a small Himalayan village, this international bestseller follows the story of a young girl named Binya who becomes the proud owner of a beautiful blue umbrella.
With vivid descriptions of the lush mountains and the colorful characters that inhabit the village, Bond weaves a magical world that will transport you to a simpler time. Perfect for children and adults alike!
18. Caps for Sale by Esphyr Slobodkina
Join in on the fun and celebrate the joy of reading with “Caps for Sale” – a beloved tale this International Children’s Book Day.
This classic by Esphyr Slobodkina is a fun story that follows a cap seller and his mischievous monkey as they navigate through a colorful marketplace, encountering a group of pesky monkeys along the way.
With its playful illustrations and repetitive phrases, it is sure to capture the imagination of young readers and adults alike.
19. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
“Little Women” is a classic novel by Louisa May Alcott that follows the lives of the four March sisters – Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy – as they grow up in the mid-19th century.
Through their various adventures and struggles, from dealing with the challenges of poverty and illness to navigating love and relationships, the sisters learn the importance of family, friendship, and staying true to oneself.
Full of heartwarming moments and unforgettable characters, this is a timeless tale that has captivated readers for generations.
Related: 14 Must Read Books As Recommended By Emma Watson
Whether you’re a child or an adult, there’s always something magical about curling up with a good book and getting lost in a story.
With so many incredible books for kids to choose from, there’s no better time to discover a new favorite or revisit an old classic. Happy reading, this International Children’s Book Day!!
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