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Classics

Oldies that parents will remember from their youth

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Classics, Food, Counting

Carle's classic tale of a voracious caterpillar who eats his way through the days of the week and then changes into a eautiful butterfly has been reissued in a sumptuous twenty-fifth anniversary edition with a shiny, silver-coated cover and wonderfully thick, durably pages.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 57042 votes, reviews

Eric Carle

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See

Classics, Rhythmic

A big happy frog, a plump purple cat, a handsome blue horse, and a soft yellow duck--all parade across the pages of this delightful book. Children will immediately respond to Eric Carle's flat, boldly colored collages. Combined with Bill Martin's singsong text, they create unforgettable images of these endearing animals.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 49174 votes, reviews

Bill Martin Jr.

Where the Wild Things Are

Classics, Caldecott Medal

Where the Wild Things Are is fifty years old! Maurice Sendak's Caldecott Medal-winning picture book has become one of the most highly acclaimed and best-loved children's books of all time. A must for every child's bookshelf. Introduce a new generation to Max's imaginative journey with this special anniversary edition. Let the wild rumpus continue as this classic comes to life like never before with new reproductions of Maurice Sendak's artwork. Astonishing state-of-the-art technology faithfully captures the color and detail of the original illustrations. Sendak himself enthusiastically endorsed this impressive new interpretation of his art before his death in 2012. This iconic story has inspired a movie, an opera, and the imagination of generations.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 33010 votes, reviews

Maurice Sendak

Where's Spot?

Classics, Permanence

It's supper time, and Sally the Dog is looking for her puppy, Spot. She looks for him behind doors, under stairs, inside clocks, and other hiding spots and encounters his friends on her search. But where's Spot? Part of the popular “Spot” series of books by Eric Hill, Where's Spot?
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 32146 votes, reviews

Eric Hill

The Gruffalo

Classics, Bravery

Julia Donaldson's trademark rhyming text and Axel Scheffler's brilliant, characterful illustrations come together in this perfect read aloud—a perfect gift for any special occasion! A mouse is taking a stroll through the deep, dark wood when along comes a hungry fox, then an owl, and then a snake. The mouse is good enough to eat but smart enough to know this, so he invents . . . the gruffalo! As Mouse explains, the gruffalo is a creature with terrible claws, and terrible tusks in its terrible jaws, and knobbly knees and turned-out toes, and a poisonous wart at the end of its nose. But Mouse has no worry to show. After all, there’s no such thing as a gruffalo. . . .
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 27298 votes, reviews

Julia Donaldson

Dear Zoo

Animals, Permanence, Classics

Dear Zoo is thrity years old -- and still as popular as ever! And with an updated look, this classic children's storybook about a youngster loooking for a perfect pet is sure to delight a new generation of readers!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 27297 votes, reviews

Rod Campbell

Goodnight Moon

Bedtime, Classic

In a great green room, tucked away in bed, is a little bunny. "Goodnight room, goodnight moon." And to all the familiar things in the softly lit room—to the picture of the three little bears sitting on chairs, to the clocks and his socks, to the mittens and the kittens, to everything one by one—the little bunny says goodnight. In this classic of children's literature, beloved by generations of readers and listeners, the quiet poetry of the words and the gentle, lulling illustrations combine to make a perfect book for the end of the day. This board book edition is the perfect size for little hands.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 26068 votes, reviews

Margaret Wise Brown

The Pout-Pout Fish

Classics, Perspective, Emotions, NY Times Best Sellers

Swim along with the pout-pout fish as he discovers that being glum and spreading "dreary wearies" isn't really his destiny. Bright ocean colors and playful rhyme come together in Deborah Diesen's fun fish story that's sure to turn even the poutiest of frowns upside down.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 24276 votes, reviews

Deborah Diesen

Corduroy

Classics

Don Freeman's classic character, Corduroy, is even more popular today then he was when he first came on the scene in 1968. This story of a small teddy bear waiting on a department store shelf for a child�۪s friendship has appealed to young readers generation after generation.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 16953 votes, reviews

Don Freeman

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

Classics

A voracious guest makes a surprise visit in this ferociously popular tale, first published more than fifty years ago. When the doorbell rings unexpectedly one afternoon, Sophie and her mummy can’t imagine who might be there. Much to their surprise, a tiger with a very large appetite has come to tea! First published in 1968, this classic and whimsical picture book from beloved children’s author and illustrator Judith Kerr is a delightful (and delicious!) story about the best way to entertain an unexpected houseguest, even when that guest just so happens to be a tiger.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 12798 votes, reviews

Judith Kerr

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We're Going on a Bear Hunt

Classics, Sounds

Now the very youngest readers can join in the fun with this Classic Board Book edition of We're Going on a Bear Hunt. Full of delightful comedy and high drama, this tale of a brave family's joyous romp through sweeping landscapes is sure to win new fans.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 12088 votes, reviews

Helen Oxenbury

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie

Classics, Slippery Slope

If a hungry little mouse shows up on your doorstep, you might want to give him a cookie. And if you give him a cookie, he'll ask for a glass of milk. He'll want to look in a mirror to make sure he doesn't have a milk mustache, and then he'll ask for a pair of scissors to give himself a trim.... This book is a great first introduction to Mouse, the star of the If You Give... series and a perennial favorite among children.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 11349 votes, reviews

Laura Numeroff

The Tale of Peter Rabbit

Classics

A sturdy, colorful board book edition of The Tale of Peter Rabbit that’s perfect for little hands everywhere! In this generously-sized book, young children can experience the enchantment of Beatrix Potter's famous tale of naughty Peter Rabbit's adventures in Mr. McGregor's garden. Simple text and beautiful illustrations bring the classic story to life, making this a great gift for the holidays, to welcome a new baby, or as a must-have for every family's bookshelf!
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 10138 votes, reviews

Beatrix Potter

The Snowy Day

Classics, Diverse Leads, Caldecott Medal

No book has captured the magic and sense of possibility of the first snowfall better than The Snowy Day. Universal in its appeal, the story has become a favorite of millions, as it reveals a child's wonder at a new world, and the hope of capturing and keeping that wonder forever. The adventures of a little boy in the city on a very snowy day.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 9393 votes, reviews

Ezra Jack Keats

The Story of Ferdinand

Classics, Being Yourself

A true classic with a timeless message, The Story of Ferdinand has enchanted readers since it was first published in 1936. All the other bulls would run and jump and butt their heads together. But Ferdinand would rather sit and smell the flowers. So what will happen when our pacifist hero is picked for the bullfights in Madrid? This new edition contains the complete original text of the story and the original illustrations.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 8126 votes, reviews

Munro Leaf

The Kissing Hand

Going to School, Classics

School is starting in the forest, but Chester Raccoon does not want to go. To help ease Chester's fears, Mrs. Raccoon shares a family secret called the Kissing Hand to give him the reassurance of her love any time his world feels a little scary. Since its first publication in 1993, this heartwarming book has become a children's classic that has touched the lives of millions of children and their parents, especially at times of separation, whether starting school, entering daycare, or going to camp. It is widely used by kindergarten teachers on the first day of school. Stickers at the back will help children and their parents keep their Kissing Hand alive.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 7054 votes, reviews

Audrey Penn

From Head to Toe

Classics, Movement

Giraffes can bend their necks, monkeys can wave their hands, and donkeys can kick their legs. And so can you! Throughout this interactive board book, the animals of From Head to Toe invite young readers to copy their antics as they play. Through Carle’s vibrant collages and simple instructions, children will learn the importance of listening, exercising, and taking on a new challenge. Join the giraffes, monkeys, donkeys, seals, and more for a frolicking, fun adventure!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 6169 votes, reviews

Eric Carle

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

Classics

Alexander could tell it was going to be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. He went to sleep with gum in his mouth and woke up with gum in his hair. When he got out of bed, he tripped over his skateboard and by mistake dropped his sweater in the sink while the water was running. He could tell it was going to be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. It was a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. Nothing at all was right. Everything went wrong, right down to lima beans for supper and kissing on TV. What do you do on a day like that? Well, you may think about going to Australia. You may also be glad to find that some days are like that for other people too.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 6138 votes, reviews

Judith Viorst

Harold and the Purple Crayon

Classics, Thinking Big

From beloved children’s book creator Crockett Johnson comes the timeless classic Harold and the Purple Crayon! This board book edition features sturdy pages and is just the right size for young dreamers. One evening Harold decides to go for a walk in the moonlight. Armed only with an oversize purple crayon, young Harold draws himself a landscape full of wonder and excitement. Harold and his trusty crayon travel through woods and across seas and past dragons before returning to bed, safe and sound. Full of funny twists and surprises, this charming story shows just how far your imagination can take you.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 5781 votes, reviews

Crockett Johnson

Good Night, Gorilla

Bedtime, Wordless, Classics

A must-have board book for all babies. Good night, Gorilla. Good night, Elephant. It's bedtime at the zoo, and all the animals are going to sleep. Or are they? Who's that short, furry guy with the key in his hand and the mischievous grin? Good night, Giraffe. Good night, Hyena. Sneak along behind the zookeeper's back, and see who gets the last laugh in this riotous good-night romp.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 5697 votes, reviews

Peggy Rathmann

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

Classics, Gratitude, Environment

If food dropped like rain from the sky, wouldn't it be marvelous! Or would it? It could, after all, be messy. And you'd have no choice. What if you didn't like what fell? Or what if too much came? Have you ever thought of what it might be like to be squashed flat by a pancake?
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 4398 votes, reviews

Judi Barrett

Each Peach Pear Plum

Classics, Nursery Rhymes

Each Peach Pear Plum - the classic picture book by Janet and Allan Ahlberg. Each Peach Pear Plum is a timeless picture book classic from the bestselling illustrator/author team Janet and Allan Ahlberg, creators of Peepo!. Each beautifully illustrated page encourages young children to interact with the picture to find the next fairy tale and nursery rhyme character. This board book edition is perfect for little hands. In this book With your little eye, Take a look, And play 'I spy' Praise for Each Peach Pear Plum: 'Deceptively simple. Each Peach Pear Plum is a work of genius' Elaine Moss 'This familiar rhyme has been given the brilliant Ahlbreg treatment to which no young child can fail to respond. It's a book which will be read over and over again . . . just perfect!' Child Education 'A charming, pictorial fantasia...a warm, sunny, delectable picture book' Brian Alderson, The Times Allan Ahlberg has published over 100 children's books and with his late wife Janet, created many award-winning children's picture books.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 4383 votes, reviews

Allan Ahlberg

Caps for Sale

Classics

Caps for Sale is a timeless classic beloved by millions...one of the most popular picture books ever published! Children will delight in following the peddler’s efforts to outwit the monkeys and will ask to read it again and again. This board book edition features sturdy pages, perfect for little hands. Caps for Sale is an excellent easy-to-read book that includes repetition, patterns, and colors, perfect for early readers. This tale of a peddler and a band of mischievous monkeys is filled with warmth, humor, and simplicity and also teaches children about problem and resolution.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 4214 votes, reviews

Esphyr Slobodkina

The Little Engine That Could (Classic Edition)

Classics, Thinking Big, Perseverance

"I think I can, I think I can, I think I can..." Discover the inspiring story of the Little Blue Engine as she makes her way over the mountain in this beloved classic—the perfect gift to celebrate the special milestones in your life, from graduations to birthdays and more! The kindness and determination of the Little Blue Engine have inspired millions of children around the world since the story was first published in 1930. Cherished by readers for over ninety years, The Little Engine That Could is a classic tale of the little engine that, despite her size, triumphantly pulls a train full of wonderful things to the children waiting on the other side of a mountain.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 3845 votes, reviews

Watty Piper

The Little Engine That Could

Classics, Growth Mindset, Perseverance

The story of a train filled with toys and gifts for little boys and girls that breaks down before reaching the children. After asking several passing trains for help over the hill, a little blue train agrees to help the stranded toys. Even though she is small, the blue train tries her best to bring the toys to the children on the other side of the hill.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 3739 votes, reviews

Watty Piper

Miss Rumphius

Classics, Travel, Gardening

A beloved classic is lovelier than ever! Barbara Cooney's story of Alice Rumphius, who longed to travel the world, live in a house by the sea, and do something to make the world more beautiful, has a timeless quality that resonates with each new generation. The countless lupines that bloom along the coast of Maine are the legacy of the real Miss Rumphius, the Lupine Lady, who scattered lupine seeds everywhere she went. Miss Rumphius received the American Book Award in the year of publication. To celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of two-time Caldecott winner Barbara Cooney's best-loved book, Viking has reoriginated the illustrations, going back to the original art to ensure state-of-the-art reproduction of Cooney's exquisite artwork. The art for Miss Rumphius has a permanent home in the Bowdoin College Museum of Art.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 2918 votes, reviews

Barbara Cooney

Clifford the Big Red Friend Story Box (6 Books)

Classics, Pets

Join Clifford and his best friend, Emily Elizabeth, in this box set of six classic stories! Young readers can now carry their favorite Clifford the Big Red Dog storybooks with them wherever they go in one convenient box set with a handle! The story box includes six bestselling 8x8 paperback books, including Clifford’s Manners, Clifford’s Good Deeds, Clifford and the Grouchy Neighbors, Clifford and the Big Storm, Clifford Grows Up, and Clifford’s Pals.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 2760 votes, reviews

Norman Bridwell

Clifford the Big Red Dog

Pets, Classics, Nostalgia

Clifford the Big Red Dog is back in this classic jacketed hardcover! "I'm Emily Elizabeth,and I have a dog.My dog is a big red dog."This is how it all began -- in 1963, Norman Bridwell published his very first Clifford book, and kids have loved Clifford ever since. He's an adorable dog whose well-meaning bumblings have great kid appeal. Clifford is Emily Elizabeth's, and everyone's, favorite big red dog!This charming jacketed hardcover edition is finally back in print and makes the perfect gift!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 2646 votes, reviews

Norman Bridwell

Peter Rabbit Gift Set

Classics, Animals

Peter Rabbit is back again, and this time he's brought some friends! Titles include: The Tale of Peter Rabbit, The Tale of Mr. Jeremy Fisher, The Tale of Tom Kitten, and The Tale of Jemima Puddle- Duck. Perfect for holidays, baby showers, birthdays, collectors and more! This brand-new eco-friendly boxed set includes four classic Beatrix Potter tales that meet "naturally better" criteria and showcase their "green" appeal with the eye catching vine cover design.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 2614 votes, reviews

Beatrix Potter

Curious George Classic Collection

Classics

All seven Curious George classic stories in one delightful slipcased boxed set in celebration of the 75th birthday of everyone's favorite inquisitive monkey! Contains: Curious George, Curious George Takes a Job, Curious George Rides a Bike, Curious George Gets a Medal, Curious George Flies a Kite, Curious George Learns the Alphabet, and Curious George Goes to the Hospital.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 2078 votes, reviews

H. A. Rey

The Little Engine That Could (Little Golden Book)

Classics, Thinking Big, Perseverance

Make family reading a regular and cherished activity with The Little Engine That Could and READ TOGETHER, BE TOGETHER, a nationwide movement developed by Penguin Random House in partnership with Parents magazine. The kindness and determination of the Little Blue Engine have inspired millions of children around the world since the story was first published in 1930. Cherished by readers for ninety years, The Little Engine That Could is a classic tale of a little engine that, despite her size, triumphantly pulls a train full of wonderful things to the children waiting on the other side of a mountain. Now parents and educators can introduce the importance of determination and kindness to younger readers with this classic picture book!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 1761 votes, reviews

Watty Piper

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The Tale of Peter Rabbit (Little Golden Book)

Classics, Animals

Share Beatrix Potter's most popular and well-loved tale with rabbit lovers everywhere this Easter! Follow the story of naughty Peter Rabbit as he squeezes under the gate into Mr. McGregor's garden and finds himself in all kinds of trouble!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 1571 votes, reviews

Beatrix Potter

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A Sick Day for Amos McGee

Classics, Friendship, Caldecott Medal

THE BEST SICK DAY EVER and the animals in the zoo feature in this striking picture book debut. Friends come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. In Amos McGee's case, all sorts of species, too! Every day he spends a little bit of time with each of his friends at the zoo, running races with the tortoise, keeping the shy penguin company, and even reading bedtime stories to the owl. But when Amos is too sick to make it to the zoo, his animal friends decide it's time they returned the favor. A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead and Erin E. Stead is a 2011 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year and the winner of the 2011 Caldecott Medal. This title has Common Core connections.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 1267 votes, reviews

Philip C. Stead

Oso pardo, oso pardo, ¿qué ves ahí?

Spanish, Classics

The beloved classic in a Spanish language edition, now available in board book format. Edición en español del clásico libro ilustrado Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?. Bill Martin Jr.'s rhythmic text speaks directly to young children, and Eric Carle's gorgeous illustrations hold children enraptured reading after reading. With this translation of Oso pardo, oso pardo, ¿qué ves ahí?, Spanish-speaking and bilingual children will now be able to share the magic of the beloved Brown Bear and his friends.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 1172 votes, reviews

Bill Martin Jr.

The Classic Adventures Of Paddington Bear (Set)

Classics

Book set contains these Paddington Bear Books : A Bear Called Paddington More About Paddington Paddington Helps Out Paddington Abroad Paddington at Large Paddington Marches On Paddington at Work Paddington Goes to Town Paddington Takes the Air Paddington on Top Paddington Takes the Test Paddington Here and Now Paddington Races Ahead Love from Paddington Paddington Finest Hour
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 769 votes, reviews

Michael Bond

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The Complete Adventures of Curious George (75th Anniversary Edition)

Classics

This handsome hardcover collection includes complete editions of all seven of the original Curious George titles in one complete volume. Perfect for sharing and gifting—this is a book that belongs on every little monkey's shelf. Books included in this collector’s edition are Curious George, Curious George Takes a Job, Curious George Rides a Bike, Curious George Gets a Medal, Curious George Flies a Kite, Curious George Learns the Alphabet, and Curious George Goes to the Hospital. This edition also includes an original illustrated map of Curious George’s world, as well as a new scrapbook biography of H. A. and Margret Rey’s creative journey written by the historian Louise Borden. Also includes access to a bonus downloadable audio read by the actor, producer, and director John Krasinski. Access code can be found inside the book on page 2. Curious George has delighted millions of readers for seventy-five years. This collection is a great way to share the fun and makes for a great gift for baby showers, birthdays, and other holidays and events.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 730 votes, reviews

H. A. Rey

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Mortimer

Classics, Canadiana

With over half a million copies in print, Mortimer is one of Robert Munsch’s most popular and beloved books. Mortimer is the story “... of a little boy who won’t go to sleep at night and who drives his family crazy with his rowdiness ... [It] reads as though it was written by a parent driven frantic by one of the contemporary but compulsive stages of childrearing ... [It is] of tremendous appeal to kids and parents at the same stage.”—Globe and Mail
average rating is 4.1 out of 5, based on 525 votes, reviews

Robert Munsch

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A Kiss for Little Bear

Grandparents, Classics

Little Bear is so pleased with the picture he has drawn that he asks Hen to take it to his grandmother. Grandmother is so happy with it that she sends him back a thank-you kiss. How the kiss is passed from Grandmother, to Hen, to Cat, to Little Skunk, to a pretty girl skunk, and back to Little Skunk, and how eventually it comes again to Hen and finally to Little Bear, will delight children just learning to read. A Kiss for Little Bear is among the beloved classic Little Bear books for beginning readers from Else Holmelund Minarik and Maurice Sendak. The first, Little Bear, launched the I Can Read early reader series in 1957. An ALA Notable Children’s Book and New York Times Best Illustrated Book!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 298 votes, reviews

Else Holmelund Minarik

Curious George (75th Anniversary Edition)

Classics

This treasured classic is where it all began for the curious, loveable monkey. Special anniversary cover with foil and spot gloss make this edition a must-have for any children's book collection. Includes bonus downloadable audio read by the actor, producer, and director John Krasinski.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 176 votes, reviews

H. A. Rey

The Tale of Samuel Whiskers

Classics

The first farm that Beatrix Potter owned, Hill Top, was an old house with thick walls and many hiding places for rats and mice. In The Tale of Samuel Whiskers this farmhouse is Tom Kitten's home and the story tells what happens when Tom accidently comes upon the rat Samuel Whiskers living in a secret hideout behind the attic walls. The Tale of Samuel Whiskers is number 16 in Beatrix Potter's series of 23 little books.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 131 votes, reviews

Beatrix Potter

Classics

meaningful additions

Children learn and hear more than we think.  Books provide context for new and potentially confusing topics, and give caregivers a way to approach complex topics.

Balanced Rocks
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