Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Often, when we read a story as an adult, it can remind us of another adult book we’ve read. When I read 3 books in 2 months that reminded me of novels I adored as a child, I knew I needed to make a post with adult versions of favorite childhood books!
After reading The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah, I immediately called Jackie to discuss the trend in my reading. We had a quick discussion and realized that, actually, there were quite a few books that reminded us of old favorites. If you are looking for Adult Retellings of Disney Classics, I have a list of those as well!
Maybe it’s because I’m getting into childhood fiction again with my kids, or maybe it’s because some childhood favorites just always have a place in our hearts, but now that I’ve looked for similarities, I can’t stop finding adult novels reminiscent of childhood classics.
I thought it would be fun to compile a list of adult books that I would recommend based on kids’ fiction. Enjoy the lists below and let us know if you agree with our recommendations!
The Best Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
The Best Fiction Novel like Favorite Childhood Books
Orange is the New Black by Piper Kerman- Jump to Section
The Best Historical Fiction Novel like Favorite Childhood Books
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah- Jump to Section
The Best Mystery/ Thriller Novel like Favorite Childhood Books
Beth is Dead by Katie Bernet- Jump to Section
The Best Fantasy Novel like Favorite Childhood Books
Circe by Madeline Miller- Jump to Section
The Best Nonfiction Books like Favorite Childhood Books
Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton- Jump to Section
*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Adult Novels Reminiscent of Childhood Classics: Fiction
Holes by Louis Sachar & Orange is the New Black by Piper Kerman
Both books take place in a prison- One is for delinquent boys and the other is a women’s prison. If you loved Holes, Orange is the New Black is definitely your speed. Who would have thought a book about a prison for boys would be appropriate for kids? It’s actually a favorite in our house!
Why Kirsten loves it
The view of the American penal system was eye-opening. The book is so well-written, it reads like fiction and I am not surprised that Netflix adapted it to the screen.
Find this book in: Best Netflix Books Adaptations / Book With Color in the Title / Books with Food in the Title / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Swiss Family Robinson by Johann D. Wyss & Castle of Water by Dane Huckelbridge
Both books are stories of survival while castaway on an island. While Swiss family is perfect for kids, Castle of Water is the adult version with a far more accurate depiction of what life would be like while stranded and alone.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a wonderful contemporary fiction book about love and survival. It is so much more than it appears on the surface. I cried during the ending and have been singing it’s praises ever since. Everyone I’ve ever recommended this one too has had the same response.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved how the characters developed in this book. It was surprising and moving.
Find this book in: Kirsten’s Favorite Books / Feel-Good Books / Plane Crash Novels / Books Like People We Meet on Vacation / Books Set at the Beach / Books Set in Tropical Locations / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Historical Fiction Novels Like Favorite Childhood Books
My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George & The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah
I adored Jean Craighead George’s tale of a young boy who decides to abandon his large family and their small home to live off the land like his ancestors. Similarly, the family in The Great Alone leaves civilization to homestead in Alaska. They live off the land too, but the problems they face in Alaska are definitely not kid-friendly.
Why Kirsten loves it
This isolation book is so haunting. I could not get it out of my head. Kristin Hannah is an amazing writer with wonderful characters. Her stories feel realistic almost to a fault. They are heartbreaking and heartwarming and utterly unforgettable. I did not think that I would like a book about Alaska but, I could not put it down.
Why Jackie loves it
Another Kristin Hannah story, another NYT best seller – and for good reason! I liked this coming-of-age story set in the Alaskan wilderness. The setting is truly its own character, bringing an element of desperation to that story that wouldn’t exist in another locale.
Find this book in: Books set in the 1970s / Coming-of-age Books for Adults / Isolation Books / Winter Books / Best Books of 2018 / Books Like Where the Crawdads Sing / Books Set in the 80s / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery & The Orphan Train by Christina Baker
These two books are two very different views children moving through foster homes and orphanages. Anne is an uplifting story about a girl we all wish could be our best friend. Orphan Train is a more realistic view of this period of time. Both are books about friendship, love, and resilience.
Why Jackie loves it
This is such a sad time in American history and yet, this book is written is such a compelling way, it was hard to put it down. It is the perfect choice to read if you loved Anne of Green Gables.
Find this book in: Adult Retellings of Disney Classics / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books / Books Set in Maine / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett & The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton
If there were ever two books that go together, these would be them. Locked gardens and revealed family secrets are abundant in these two books. In the Forgotten Garden, Morton includes F. Hodgson Burnett as a character who comes to a garden party at the Walker household. The Walkers tell a story about a walled garden built for a sick cousin Rose.
Why Kirsten loves it
I was swept away by this story and found myself dreaming of Cornwall while reading. This gothic fiction is a perfect book for fall. The implication in The Forgotten Garden is that this garden inspired the book The Secret Garden. A lovely connection between two favorites.
Find this book in: Kate Morton Books / Cozy Books / Family Saga / Books set in Cornwall / Historical Mystery / British Books / Best Cozy Mystery Books / Fiction Books About Gardens and Gardening / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder & One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus
If you loved Little House in the Big Woods as a child, then Caroline is the book you need to read as an adult. It is the story of Little House told from Ma’s point of view. This is the captivating story told from an adult’s more mature perspective with all the emotion you would expect.
Why Kirsten loves it
I read Little House on the Prairie for the first time earlier this year, mostly because I wanted the background for this exact book. The entire I was reading of the original series, I found myself wondering about the choices the parents were making.
I wanted to know why certain things were being done, and I finally got my answers in Sarah Miller’s retelling of the story. I didn’t love Little House, but I ADORED Caroline. This book is a must-read if you are looking for books about books.
Find this book in: Books about Books / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Harriet The Spy by Louise Fitzhugh & The Alice Network by Kate Quinn
If you loved Harriet the Spy as a kid, what could be better than an adult historical fiction with female spies? I love that strong female characters are becoming more popular in books for kids and adults alike.
Why Kirsten loves it
This was such a good book to listen to and although the subject matter was serious, there were moments when I was laughing out loud. There was just the right amount of humor to make this a very readable book and a perfect book for book clubs to discuss.
Why Jackie loves it
This was such engaging historical fiction. I liked the characters and immediately wanted to know how the story would come together. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction.
Find this book in: The Best Reese Witherspoon Books / WWI Books / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2017 / Historical Thrillers / WWI Novels / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Mystery/Thrillers Like Your Favorite Childhood Book
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott & Beth is Dead by Katie Bernet
If you loved Little Women, then you will love this retelling with a modern thriller twist. When Beth March is found dead, the sisters vow to find her killer. But as they search for who could do such a thing, they realize that there is more than one person who would benefit from her death, including each one of the March girls. Beth’s story is told in flashbacks next to Meg, Jo, and Amy.
Why Kirsten loves it
I’ve always loved Little Women and retellings of older classics are some of my favorite books to read. The thriller aspect gave this story such a unique spin, and I did NOT see the ending coming. I was kept on my toes in the best way with this story.
Why Jackie loves it
This modern retelling of Little Women grabbed me from the first page. Like Kirsten, I did not see the ending coming at all. I loved that the characters stayed true to the original story, but with a modern edge.
Find this book in: Classic Retellings / YA Thriller Books / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2026 / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Encyclopedia Brown, Boy Detective by Donald J. Sobol & Still Life by Louise Penny
Two brilliant detectives who solve cases with observation and attention to detail. If you loved Encyclopedia growing up, then Chief Inspector Gamache is the perfect hero in Louise Penny’s books.
Why Jackie loves it
This is one of the best detective books I have ever read. You will fall in love with Three Pines and the people who live there. The wonderful community in this series is the best of what cozy books should be. If you love mystery novels and have not read this series, What are you waiting for?
Find this book in: Louise Penny Books in Order / Best Mysteries of all Time /Jackie’s Favorite Books / Best Winter Books / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Amelia Bedelia by Peggy Parish & The Maid by Nita Prose
I loved Amelia Bedelia as a child. I found her antics so hilarious because she took everything so literally. While Molly Gray is not quite as literal, she does have a lot of trouble with the nuances of social interactions. I have not doubt that these two literary characters would get along famously.
Why Jackie loves it
Molly Gray works as a maid in a grand hotel and gets joy from leaving things orderly and pristine. Molly struggles with reading social cues and I loved her immediately. Maybe its because she reminded me of Amelia Bedelia! I adored every minute of this story and closed the last page smiling. Molly is such a wonderful character who has more depth than is apparent initially.
Find this book in: Books like Lessons in Chemistry / Best Mystery Books / Feel-Good Books / Books for Book Clubs / Best Cozy Mystery Books / Books With Neurodivergent Characters / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin & The Last Equation of Isaac Severy by Nova Jacobs
The publishers of Nova Jacobs noticed the similarities between Isaac Severy and The Westing Game. Both mysteries are solved with clues that aren’t quite what they appear – clues that can only be deciphered by one specific person.
Why Kirsten loves it
It’s the perfect mystery novel for fans of Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore. This mystery is unique and so smart.
Find this book in: Books About Puzzles / Cozy Mystery Books / Books About Women in STEM / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Fantasy/ Sci-Fi Novels Like Your Childhood Favorite Books
D’aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths & Circe by Madeline Miller
D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths introduced so many kids to Greek Mythology. Circe centers around the character of Circe, child of God Helios. Finally, Greek mythology for adults.
Why Kirsten loves it
The Odyssey is one of my all-time favorite books and I think I read Du’Laires Book of Greek Myths more than any other book when I was in middle school. I ADORED Circe because it has all my favorite things about Greek mythology but for adults!
Why Jackie loves it
I am not a huge mythology buff like Kirsten is so I loved this book without ever reading the Odyssey. I will pause so you can gasp. It is true, I have never read the Odyssey and loved this book for Miller’s fantastic storytelling ability.
Find this book in: Greek Mythology / Books Set at the Beach / Classic Book Retellings / Best Books 2018 / Adult Fantasy Novels / Mythology Books / Historical Fantasy Books / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle & Dark Matter by Blake Crouch
I read these books back to back, coincidentally. I wanted to read A Wrinkle in Time before the movie debut, and my library hold on Dark Matter came through around the same time. Imagine my surprise when they both referenced tesseracts -a term I had never heard of before- and used them as a means for time-travel.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is sci-fi for non-sci-fi fans. Also, it sort of reminded me of a wrinkle in time. Imagine being able to find the different versions of yourself in parallel universes. The science part of the story was easily explained to me and the story was absolutely captivating!
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White & Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstances by Ruth Emmie Lang
I loved Charlotte’s Web as a child and couldn’t stop thinking about it while I was reading Beasts. Charlotte’s Web is the first magical realism book I ever read and it set the stage for my love of this genre. Weylyn Grey is mysterious and misunderstood, loved and feared. These are all similar themes to E.B White’s classic tale.
Why Jackie loves it
This is a book unlike any book that I have read. It has a touch of magical realism that makes it all the more special. The characters and the plot are so well-written, I loved every minute of this book.
Find this book in: Adult Retellings of Disney Classics /Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books / Best Books of 2017
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K Rowling & The Magicians by Lev Grossman
The best way I can describe The Magician series is if Harry Potter was admitted to Hogwarts in College. It has a different, darker feel but it is fun, imaginative, and entertaining. The magic in this school dark and it is definitely a books for adults
Why Jackie loves it
Quentin Coldwater is a high school student obsessed with the made-up world of Fillory. He finds himself admitted to a magical college that is both secret and elite. This one has an almost cult-like following for a reason. This is dark and unique- unlike any book I have read before.
Find this book in: Books Set in College / Dark Academia Books / Best Witch Books / Adult Books Similar to Harry Potter / Best Adult Fantasy Novels / The Best Books Like Fourth Wing / Books Like Ninth House / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Matilda by Roald Dahl & Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman
Matilda is a little girl who learns magic to focus her brilliant mind and escape her horrible parents. Practical Magic is another story perfect for every child who wished they could grow up to do magic. The Darker undertone in both is similar. I loved both of these books.
Why Jackie loves it
This is truly an iconic witch book and is one of the cases where the movie has become iconic as well. I love the story but also the unbreakable bond between Sally and Gilly. This story is about truly finding yourself
Why Kirsten loves it
I love Practical Magic as part of a series and as a stand-alone novel. The bonds of sisterhood are so strong that the magic and the story leave me with that feeling you get after an amazing book. This is also my go-to Halloween movie along with Hocus Pocus.
Find this book in: Practical Magic Books in Order / Alice Hoffman Books / Books About Sisters / Witch Books / Books By Jewish Authors / Best Adult Fantasy / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell & Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire book #1) by George R. R. Martin
Both of these books are filled with action, adventure, and of course, Dragons. Martin’s books have a little more death and gore, but both have been made for the screen. For anyone who ever wanted to ride a Dragon, these books will inspire you.
Why Jackie loves it
This book is EPIC and the series is completely EPIC as well. This is definitely a lot darker than How to Train Your Dragon, but it is a fantasy series that you must read. For the record, having the title “Daenerys Stormborn of the House Targaryen, First of Her Name, the Unburnt, Queen of the Andals and the First Men, Khaleesi of the Great Grass Sea, Breaker of Chains, and Mother of Dragons” is pretty much the coolest title ever.
Find this book in: Best Adult Fantasy Novels / The Best Books Like Fourth Wing / Dragon Books for Adults / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Nonfiction Books Like Childhood Favorites
The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter & Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton
During the Covid lockdown, Chloe discovered a leveret, aka a baby hare, and decided to rescue it from death. She nursed it to health, working hard not to domesticate it, and watched it grow and thrive, eventually having babies of its own in her backyard in the English countryside. If you loved reading about Peter Rabbit as a child, this is almost like the true story, but for grownups!
Why Kirsten loves it
This cozy read is a bestseller in the UK for a reason. Chloe’s narrative was soothing and interesting as she details the hurdles and highlights of rescuing a leveret and watching it mature. I felt her compassion and care in her narrative — it gave me new respect for these wild creatures. #gifted by Penguin Random House
Find this book in: Nonfiction Books About Animals / Best Beach Reads 2025 / Giftable Books / Best Nonfiction Books of 2025 / Feel Good Nonfiction Books / The Best Queen Camilla Book Club Books / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books
Complete List of Favorite Childhood Books Mentioned
Expert Tip
When we are younger, we read books that we like. We don’t feel pressure to finish a book that is not enjoyable. There is no peer pressure from social media or Book Club’s to read something that isn’t fun. Of course, I am not talking about school required reading. I am talking about free time, sit down with a good book kind of reading. As we get older, it’s easier to get into a reading slump. A great way to find a new book to read, even if you are just looking for a great book, it to find a book that reminds you of your favorite childhood books.
- I divided this book by genre of the adult version of the book. See if your favorite is on the list!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some adult novels reminiscent of childhood classics?
There are so many fantastic books for adults that feel like some of my favorite childhood books. The minute I read The Great Alone, it reminded me of My Side of the Mountain.
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Epilogue
What are your favorite childhood books? Did you find the adult version on this list?
I love this! I often see/feel the DNA of my favorite children’s books in my current adult reading. I thought A GENTLEMAN IN MOSCOW by Amor Towles was reminiscent primarily of A LITTLE PRINCESS by the incomparable Frances Hodgson Burnett. With a little SWISS FAMILY ROBINSON or ROBINSON CRUSOE thrown in for good measure.
I never thought of A Gentleman in Moscow as having those qualities, but now you’ve got me thinking about it and it does! I love the feeling of finding modern stories that remind me of the books I loved when I was younger.