35 of the Best Classic Books for Kids by Age
I’ve been collecting the Puffin classic books for kids for years, and I realized that while I like them aesthetically, I’ve also read and enjoyed so many of these tales!
As I was reflecting on my collection of classic children’s books, I realized that there are so many more classics not included in the set. It made me think about all the picture books, baby books, and children’s novels from my youth that I’ve read to my kids.
I thought it would be fun to round up all the classic children’s books by age that I think have stood the test of time. Maybe your favorites made the cut, or maybe you’ll find a new favorite to try!
*classic children’s books by age 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.
Classic Children’s Books by Age
Classic Children’s Books for Babies Ages 1-3
The Little Engine That Could
Author: Watty Piper
Illustrator: Watty Piper
Year: 1930
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 1 – 4
Plot
Of all the classic books for kids on this page, I guarantee you know this one. Who could forget the little blue engine and his determination to get the toys over the mountain, all while saying “I think I Can, I Think I Can.” It’s such a wonderful moral lesson for everyone.
Why Kirsten loves it
My grandmother loved to read me this story. I can still hear her voice saying “I think I can, I think I can.”
Find this book in: Best Books for 2-year-olds / Classic Books for Kids
Each Peach, Pear, Plum
Author: Janet and Allan Ahlberg
Illustrator: Janet and Allan Ahlberg
Year: 1978
Genre: Board Books
Age: 0 – 3
Plot
This adorable eye spy book has wonderful pictures, featuring nursery rhymes and fairy tale characters. It’s a perfect classic children’s book for a 2-year-old.
Why Jackie loves it
The rhyming makes it memorable and easy to recite. This is my favorite book to gift to new parents.
Find this book in: Classic Kids Books / Best Board Books / Books for 1-year-olds / Food Books for Children / Rhyming Books
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Author: Bill Martin Jr. & John Archambault
Illustrator: Lois Ehlert
Year: 1989
Genre: Board Book
Age: 1 – 4
More info: Chicka Chika #1
Plot
Rhyming? check. Letters? check. This classic book checks so many boxes with the added bonus that it is fun to read with your kids. Even the name itself is a perfect example of alliteration in books.
Why Jackie loves it
If you have not picked up yet, it is a must-read for any preschool child and a perfect book to help with reading readiness as well.
Find this book in: Alphabet Books / Rhyming Books / Books for a 1-year-old / Alliteration Books / Classic Books for Kids
But Not the Hippopotamus
Author: Sandra Boynton
Illustrator: Boynton
Year: 1982
Genre: Board Book
Age: 1 – 4
Plot
Animals are all playing together- cavorting in a bog, drinking juice etc. and the hippo is not joining them.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved reading this with my kids. It is utterly ridiculous and completely wonderful. One of my oldest son’s first words was “armadillo!” It is a perfect classic children’s book.
Find this book in: Animal Books for Kids / Books for a 1-year-old / Rhyming Books / Classic Books for Kids
Plot
Rhyming, animals, and the sweet words in this book make it the perfect companion before bed. I loved setting up a routine that let my kids know bedtime was coming.
We would bathe, put on lotion, and snuggle up to read a story. I made sure that my voice was quiet and soothing. Even if you have a new baby, incorporating a book into your nightly routine is a wonderful way to end the day.
Why Jackie loves it
The rhyming for language development and lovely illustrations of animals make this a perfect going-to-bed book for babies.
Find this book in: Bedtime Books / Classic Books for Kids / First Year Reading Tips / Newborn Books / Best Board Books / 1-year-old Books / Animal Books for Kids
 Goodnight Moon
Author: Margaret Wise Brown
Illustrator: Clement Hurd
Year: 1947
Genre: Board Books
Age: 0 – 4
More info: Over the Moon #2
Plot
This classic children’s literature is 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 is one of the most popular bedtime stories for babies ever written.
Why Kirsten loves it
The soothing, repetitive phrases in this book guide children to sleep. I don’t know anyone who hasn’t read this book at least once in their life. It’s a classic that will always stand the test of time.
Find this book in: Newborn Books / Best Board Books / 1-year-old Books / Bedtime Books / Classic Kids Books / Bunny Books
The Snowy Day
Author: Ezra Jack Keats
Illustrator: Ezra Jack Keats
Year: 1963
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 1 – 5
More info: Caldecott Medal Winner
Plot
This classic book about winter depicts a boy exploring his city neighborhood after a snowstorm. It’s the perfect book for a 4-year-old when it’s snowing outside.
Why Jackie loves it
This delightful story is also a great one for teaching sequencing to young children!
Find this book in: Children’s Books About Winter / Best Books for 4-year-olds / Classic Books for Kids
Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See
Author: Bill Martin Jr.
Illustrator: Eric Carle
Year: 1996
Genre: Board Book
Age: 0 – 3
Plot
Brown Bear, Brown Bear is a classic for a reason. It uses Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle’s signature style to teach about colors and animals. The repetitive pattern is addictive.Â
Why Jackie loves it
It’s a great introduction to colors and animals. There are so many activities that can be done with this great book for toddlers. But the colors and pictures are perfect for even the littlest reader.
Find this book in: Color Books / Newborn Books / Best Board Books / 2-year-old Books / Classic Kids Books
Freight Train
Author: Donald Crews
Illustrator: Donald Crews
Year: 1978
Genre: Board Book
Age: 1 – 3
More info: Caldecott Honor Book
Plot
This is another classic book for kids that has both trains and colors. What could be better? The simplicity of this book adds to the fun. If you have a child who can only sit for a very limited time, this book is a perfect choice.
Why Kirsten loves it
With high-contrast images, this story is the perfect introduction to colors for train-loving children. I love this
Find this book in: Color Books / Best Board Books / 1-year-old Books / Classic Kids Books
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Author: Eric Carle
Illustrator: Eric Carle
Year: 1968
Genre: Board Book
Age: 0 – 5
More info: International Bestseller
Plot
There are so many things about this classic book for kids that I love. Not only can you talk about days of the week, food, and counting, but you can follow the caterpillar on his journey to becoming a butterfly. When it comes to books for 3-year-olds, this one is tops.
Why Jackie loves it
This is a gorgeous introduction to nature, food, counting, and days of the week. It’s a classic for a reason!
Find this book in: Classic Kids Books / Preschool Books About Food / Best Board Books / Educational Books for 3-year-olds / Counting Books
Classic Children’s Picture Books for Kids Ages 4-7
Make Way for Ducklings
Author: Robert McCloskey
Illustrator: Robert McCloskey
Year: 1941
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 2 – 6
More info: Caldecott Medal Winner
Plot
This award-winning story is one of the most beloved classic children’s picture books. It tells the tale of Mrs. Mallard and her ducklings who, with the help of the police, can cross the street to get to their new pond home.
Why Jackie loves it
I remember reading this story when I was younger and I adored sharing it with my own kids. It’s such a soothing, lovely tale – perfect for bedtime!
Find this book in: Best Books for 4-year-olds / Classic Books for Kids
Cat in the Hat
Author: Dr. Suess
Illustrator: Dr. Seuss
Year: 1957
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 2 – 6
Plot
This classic book for kids marks the first appearance of one of the most beloved characters in literature. The Cat in the Hat is one of the most well-known classic children’s books because of the cat, Thing 1 and Thing 2, and the funny rhyming phrases within the book.
Why Jackie loves it
This classic book is so silly, it is fun to read. There are also a lot of beginning words that can be sounded out which makes it a great pick if you are looking for something for reading readiness.
Find this book in: Classic Books for Kids / Animal Books for Kids / Best Books for 2-year-olds
Blueberries for Sal
Author: Robert McCloskey
Illustrator: Robert McCloskey
Year: 1948
Genre: Classic Picture Books
Age: 3 – 6
More info: Caldecott Honor Book
Plot
Sal is picking blueberries with her mother when she wanders away and sees a bear. On the other side of the mountain, Sal’s mother is being followed by a baby bear who loves blueberries as much as Sal.
Why Jackie loves it
This Caldecott Honor Book has such gorgeous illustrations with a sweet story. It’s a classic that will connect generations of readers.
Find this book in: Preschool Books about Food / Classic Books for Kids / Best Books for 4-year-olds
Caps for Sale
Author: Esphyr Slobodkina
Illustrator: Esphyr Slobodkina
Year: 1987
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 2 – 5
Plot
This hysterical classic children’s book is about a cap salesman and his run-in with a group of monkeys who love his caps!
Why Kirsten loves it
This was my brother’s favorite book as a child! I remember my mom reading it again and again when we were little.
Find this book in: Best Books for 4-year-olds / Classic Books for Kids
Green Eggs and Ham
Author: Dr. Suess
Illustrator: Dr. Suess
Year: 1960
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 2 – 6
Plot
At 60 years old, this book is a classic that has withstood the test of time. The rhyme, rhythm, and repetition in this book make it so easy to remember and predict what will happen.
Why Jackie loves it
The silliness and the story make it enjoyable for parents to read. Not only is this book hilarious, but it teaches a lesson about trying new food as well.
Find this book in: Books About Food for Kids / Classic Books for Kids / Rhyming Books
Madeline
Author: Ludwig Bemelmans
Illustrator: Ludwig Bemelmans
Year: 1939
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 1 – 5
More info: Madeline #1, Caldecott Honor Book
Plot
Madeline is the smallest of the 12 little girls in 2 straight lines, but nothing frightens her. Join her as she wanders through Paris, which comes alive thanks to Bemelmans’ whimsical illustrations.
Why Jackie loves it
This book is one of my favorites of all time. There is something about the little girls in two straight lines that reminds me of my childhood. The rhythm and rhyme are perfect for any age.
Find this book in: Classic Books for Kids / Rhyming Books / Best Books for 2-year-olds
Plot
The rhythm of the story and the non-sensical rhymes make the book completely captivating. A boy and a bear head out on an adventure to pick berries in this delightful classic kids’ book. Marshmallow Cattails? Waffle and butter lily pads? Yes, please!
As a bonus, there is counting and alliteration in this picture book. No list of books for kids would be complete without this adorable read.
Why Kirsten loves it
This was my favorite book to read to her kids and as soon as you look at the pictures and start reading it, you will understand why. I have a video of reading this to my son when he was 4 months old and his face lit up as I read it. It will forever be in my home.
Find this book in: Alliteration Books / Counting Books / Rhyming Books / Best Board Books / Kids Food Books / Best Books for a 1-year-old
Where the Wild Things
Author: Maurice Sendak
Illustrator: Maurice Sendak
Year: 1963
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 1 – 100
More info: Caldecott MedalWinner
Plot
Maurice Sendek explores the amazing power of imagination in this classic kids’ book about monsters. When Max gets upset with his parents, he imagines traveling to a world to be the kids of the monsters.
Why Jackie loves it
I love this book, the illustrations, and the message within the pages. When Max finally decides to come home, his dinner is waiting for him and it’s still hot. This act of love always touched me. Really this is a book that shows a parent’s unconditional love for their child.
Find this book in: Best Books for 3-year-olds / Classic Books for Kids / Monster Books for Kids
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
Author: Judy Viorst
Illustrator: Ray Cruz
Year: 1987
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 5 – 9
Plot
Alexander and his bad days have been beloved for decades. This classic children’s book is one of the best books about feelings that exists.
Why Jackie loves it
I love this story because it’s funny and has unique illustrations to help with social-emotional learning. I know in my house, that we used this picture book to talk about bad days and how it’s perfectly normal to have them.
Find this book in: Feelings Books / Classic Kids Books / Best Books for 5-year-olds
Classic Books for Kids 8-10 to Read Alone
Stuart Little by E.B. White
Adventure- Check. Animals- Check. Animals who can talk and wear clothes- Check check. This is a tale that everyone loves about a boy who also happens to be a mouse. All my kids love this great story.
Why We Like This Book: Stuart has amazing adventures and displays great bravery in this classic book.
Appropriate for Ages: 5-8
Find This Book in Read Aloud Children’s Books / Best Classic Books for Kids Animal Book for Kids
My Father’s Dragon
Author: Ruth Stiles Gannett
Illustrator: Ruth Chrisman Gannet
Year: 1948
Genre: Classic Early Reader
Age: 4 – 7
More info: My Father’s Dragon #1, Newbery Honor Book
Plot
This is the story of Elmer, a runaway who headed to Wild Island to rescue a baby dragon, being taken advantage of by the lazy animals of the island. It is such a great story and continues with two more books after. Elmer and the Dragon and The Dragons of Blueland complete this trilogy.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love this book. It was my kid’s first fantasy chapter book. This is a wonderful book with a wonderful message as well as a perfect read-aloud bedtime story.
Find this book in: Classic Books for Kids / Best Books for 5-year-olds / Best Books to Read Aloud
The Tale of Peter Rabbit
Author: Beatrix Potter
Illustrator: Beatrix Potter
Year: 1901
Genre: Classic Short Story Collection
Age: 4 – 7
Plot
Beatrix Potter’s Tales of Peter Rabbit are some of the most beloved stories in children’s literature. Her fantastic illustrations and Peter’s engrossing escapades have stood the test of time.
I was so pleased when I learned there would be a movie adaptation of the series. This book should be on every kid’s bookshelf! And don’t forget to watch the Netflix book adaptation!
Why Jackie loves it
It is a classic that withstands the test of time. There is nothing cuter than talking animals and the illustrations are beautiful and so realistic.
Find this book in: Best Rabbit Books / Best Animal Books for Kids / Best Books for 5-year-olds
Ramona Quimby, Age 8
Author: Beverly Cleary
Year: 1981
Genre: Early Reader
Age: 4 – 8
More info: Newbery Honor Winner
Plot
Ramona is another adorable character who is perfectly imperfect. She is sweet and lovable and gets into her share of trouble. Whether reading to boys or girls, every child can relate to Ramona.
Why Kirsten loves it
When it comes to first chapter books Ramona can’t be beaten! Cleary’s classic has stood the test of time.
Find this book in: Realistic Fiction / Books for 6-year-olds / Kids Audiobooks / Newbery Award Winners / Back to School Books
Matilda by Roald Dahl
Matilda is a magical little girl who loves books. Stuck in a family that doesn’t value education, her life is changed when she meets Ms. Honey at her new school.
But the principal, Miss Trunchbull hates children. When she terrorizes the kids at her new school, Matilda finds the power to fight back. The Netflix book adaption of this one is a musical!
Mr. Popper’s Penguins
Author: Richard and Florence Atwater
Illustrator: Robert Lawson
Year: 1938
Genre: Classic Children’s Fiction
Age: 6 – 9
More info: Newbery Honor Winner
Plot
This Newberry Honor book is a classic. Originally published in 1938, it tells the story of a painter who finds himself in a house full of penguins.
Why Jackie loves it
This hilarious tale is sure to keep the kids entertained. It is funny and sweet and has withheld the test of time.
Find this book in: Best Classic Books for Kids / Read Aloud Children’s Books / Children’s Books About Winter / Newbery Award Winners
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Author: Roald Dahl
Illustrator: Quentin Blake
Year: 1964
Genre: Middle Grade Classic
Age: 6 – 9
More info: Charlie Bucket #1
Plot
Charlie is thrilled when he gets a golden ticket to see inside Willy Wonka’s amazing chocolate factory, but this is no ordinary candy factory. The machines and recipes behind the walls of the factory are what dreams are made of. Step into the wonderful world of Willy Wonka and you’ll never be the same again.
Trigger Warnings
Fatphobia
Why Kirsten loves it
This story is quite the classic and it revolves around all things candy! With its creeptastic vibes, it’s also wonderful for Halloween. I’ve loved this story for a long time, but I don’t love the author. Please be advised that he is a known for incredibly problematic comments about women, Jews, and minority groups.
Find this book in: Best Classic Books for Kids / Best Books for an 8-Year-Old / Read Aloud Children’s Books / Kids Food Books / Books about Candy
Harriet The Spy
Author: Louise Fitzhugh
Year: 1964
Genre: Middle Grade Mystery
Age: 8 – 11
More info: Harriet the Spy #1
Plot
Harriet the Spy has been a classic children’s book for over 50 years. The 11-year-old is never without a notebook in which to write her observations. When the notebook falls into the hands of her friends, they all get very angry with Harriet. Will she be able to right her wrongs?
Why Jackie loves it
There is a reason this realistic fiction book for a 10-year-old has been adapted repeatedly for the screen. It’s got life lessons for every child.
Find this book in: Best Mystery Books for Tweens / Best Books for 9-year-olds / Realistic Fiction / Classic Books for Kids
Middle Grade Classic Books for Kids
The Giver
Author: Lois Lowry
Year: 1993
Genre: YA Science Fiction
Age: 12+
More info: The Giver #1, Newbery Medal Winner
Plot
Set in a dystopian world, the main character Jonas is special because he is the Receiver. In his idyllic community, he is the one who holds the secrets. As he meets with the Giver to receive the secrets and learn about life before his community began, his eyes are opened to the kind of world he is living in and just how different it is to the way the world used to be.
Trigger Warnings
Child death, Death, Suicide
Why Kirsten loves it
This classic book for kids is one of the most influential novels of our time and one of the best sci-fi books ever written. I vividly remember the ending of this story and how emotional I got while reading it as a preteen in school. The movie is not my favorite adaptation, but it’s also worth watching.
Find this book in: Books Like the Hunger Games / YA Dystopian Novels / Coming-of-Age books for Teens / Best Books for 12-year-olds / Best Sci-Fi Books of All Time / Newbery Award Winners
Charlotte’s Web
Author: E.B. White
Illustrator: Garth Williams
Year: 1952
Genre: Children’s Classic
Age: 5-8
More info: Newbery Winner
Plot
This is such a wonderful story of unconditional love and friendship. When Fern saves the life of Wilbur, the runt of the pig litter, she promises to take care of him. As Wilbur grows, he befriends Charlotte, a spider, who ultimately saves his life a second time.
Why Jackie loves it
This is such a heartwarming classic book for kids. We dare you to read it without crying.
Find this book in: Best Classic Books for Kids / Read Aloud Children’s Books / The Best Family Audiobooks / Animal Books for Kids / Newbery Award Winners
A Wrinkle in Time
Author: Madeleine L’Engle
Year: 1962
Genre: Middle Grade Sci-Fi
Age: 8 – 11
More info: Time Quintet #1, Newbery Medal Winner
Plot
This classic sci-fi book for tweens tells the story of Meg, a high school student, who must travel through space and time to rescue her father.
Along with her younger brother and her friend, Meg learns about the tesseract- a wrinkle in time and space that she must travel through to save her father from Evil.
Why Jackie loves it
I remember loving this science fiction book as a kid. As far as classic sci-fi books go, this is a must-read.
Find this book in: Classic Books for Kids / Kids Audiobooks / Best Sci-fi Books / Middle Grade Books / Best Books for 10-year-olds / Newbery Award Winners
The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
Author: C. S. Lewis
Year: 1950
Genre: Classic Children’s Fantasy
Age: 6 – 10
More info: Chronicles of Narnia #2
Plot
When four children discover a secret passage from a wardrobe into the Land of Narnia, they find a land enslaved by the White Witch. They find friends, enemies, and magic in this book that has withstood the test of time. Just when things are dire, the Great Lion, Aslan, makes his return setting off a series of events that spans several books.
Trigger Warnings
War
Why Jackie loves it
The iconic book is actually the second book in the Chronicles of Narnia Series. However, since the first book is technically a prequel, I consider this the first and it can be read independently of the rest of the books in the series.
Find this book in: Witch Books for Kids / Fantasy Books for Tweens / Classic Kids Books / Children’s Books About Winter / Christmas Chapter Books / Best Books for 11-year-olds
Plot
Mary Lennox, selfish and spoilt, was sent to stay with her hunchback uncle. She finds her way into a secret garden and begins to tend to it, and a change comes over her and her life.
Why Jackie loves it
I re-read this book with my daughter and we loved it. I have not read this book since I was a child and I think I loved it more this time. This classic book for kids is the perfect feel-good book. Yesterday was Daughter’s Day and this is the perfect book to read with your little one.
Find this book in: Books With Secret in the Title / Kid’s Books by Age
Plot
Peter Pan is the flying leader of Neverland, a mythical world on a star, where he fights pirates, plays with mermaids, and frollicks around with the lost boys. When he decides he needs someone to tell him stories, he recruits Wendy, John, and Michael to come live with him. But while the Darling children love their new life at first, they soon begin missing their family and lives at home.
Why Kirsten loves it
Peter Pan is one of my favorite childhood stories. The magical world of Neverland with its pirates, mermaids, and faires captured my imagination and never let me go. I’ve seen every Peter Pan movie and I devour Peter Pan retellings like chocolate.
Why Jackie loves it
The story of Peter Pan and his adventures with the Darling children have inspired countless spin-off books, movies, and theatrical productions for a reason. It’s a must-read classic children’s book for everyone.
Find this book in: Pirate Books / Classic Kids Books / Cozy Books / Tween Fantasy Books / Books for 12-year-olds / Best Middle Grade Fiction
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
Author: J. K Rowling
Year: 1998
Genre: Middle-Grade fantasy
More info: Harry Potter #1 of 7
Age Range: 8+ (note that some of the later books in the series may not be appropriate until a bit older)
Plot
I was in university when this book was published and the first four were sitting on my younger brother’s bookshelf before I picked it up to see what the fuss was about. I read all four books in as many days and was married with a child before the final book was published.
This story introduces us to Harry, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger; our fearless trio. We also meet the other favorite beloved and detested characters that make the Harry Potter book series so special. After all, what would Hogwarts be without Hagrid, Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall, Professor Snape, and Draco Malfoy?
Trigger Warnings
Parental death
Why Jackie loves it
I firmly believe that JK Rowling changed children’s literature more profoundly than any other author. I realize that this is a very strong statement. But, until her, there have never been books that have had such an impact on the world of reading. The books are so brilliantly laid out with easter eggs in book one that are essential for the entire plot. I believe this is one of the best fantasy series ever written.
Why Kirsten loves it
In my opinion, this is the best children’s fantasy series ever written. It features strong lessons on morality, inventive plotlines, and hidden threads woven throughout the entire series. Jim Dale’s audiobook narration of this book is award-winning. He voices over 200 characters, each with distinct accents and my kids have listened to the entire series multiple times.
Find this book in: Halloween Chapter Books / Audiobooks for Kids / Harry Potter Books in Order / Books like Percy Jackson / Fantasy Books for Tweens / Magic School Books / Jackie’s Favorite Books / Kirsten’s Favorite Books / Books to Read Aloud
Anne of Green Gables
Author: L. M. Montgomery
Year: 1908
Genre: Classic
Age: 10+
More info: Anne of Green Gables #1
Plot
I was immediately drawn to Anne upon first reading this story. She is smart, precocious, and has a way of making everyone love her while simultaneously finding new ways to get into trouble.
Anne is an orphan sent to live with siblings Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert who wanted a male orphan to help them on the farm. Anne was sent to them instead. She is bright, loquacious, and wins their hearts.
Why Kirsten loves it
I cherish this entire book series and the TV miniseries inspired by it. I vividly remember watching Megan Follows as Anne completely transfixed. I was so enamored, that I remember asking my grandmother to get me the books to read!
Why Jackie loves it
This is one of my all-time favorite books. Something is comforting about this cozy book that makes me read it repeatedly. It is a beautiful book about friendship and found family. Because of this book, I hope to visit Prince Edward Island one day.
Find this book in: Coming-of-Age Books / Friendship Books / Realistic Fiction / Books with Green in the Title / Fun Books for Teens / Classic Novels / Best Middle Grade Fiction
Which of these classic books for kids have you read?
Book Lists by Age
If you are looking for more amazing book lists, check out these lists sorted by age.
