Kids Books: Top 10 Classic Novels Your Kids Should Read

by Alisha Webb on January 18th, 2013 | 6 Comments »

With kids today more obsessed than ever with video games and the more recent phenomena of social media, it is getting more and more difficult to get a good book in their hands. The problem might just be that you aren't giving them the right books. Here are 10 classic novels to get your little ones away from the computer and into some quality literature. These titles are so good that you might want to re-read them yourself!

Top 10 Classic Kids Books and Novels

1. Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie

A list like this just couldn't exist without this book. A group of children from Kensington enter into the adventures of Peter Pan and Captain Hook in Neverland. A beautiful, timeless tale.

2. Stig of the The Dump by Clive King

This tale of a caveman who lives in a quarry frequented by fly tippers is another all-time classic. The story of how Barney and Stig come to be friends despite not being able to communicate properly with one another has been adapted for television twice since its publication in 1963.

3. The BFG by Roald Dahl

The undisputed king of children's books, Roald Dahl produced some amazing stories during his lifetime and many consider this to be the best. A wonderful story that is best enjoyed read out loud.

4. Watership Down by Richard Adams

A sad story about rabbits who decide to flee their home after a seer informs them that their current home is going to be destroyed. Make sure you have some tissues at the ready.

5. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

This story, aimed at young readers about a caterpillar who just can't stop eating, has sold over 30 million copies worldwide. A great starter for the little ones.

6. The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

The story of Dorothy and how she is transported to the magical world of Oz by a tornado is perhaps best known as being a film but the book is a great read, too.

7. Junk by Melvin Burgees

A great book but probably best kept until they are teenagers. This story of a group of friends who fall on hard times on the streets of Bristol has been recognized as one of the most important children's books of all time.

8. Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

Another of the most classic of classics. This tale of the little girl who goes looking for adventures on the other side of the looking glass is one of those timeless books that will live forever, probably because it still strikes such a chord with children today as it did when it was first published in 1865.

9. Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

A swashbuckling tale of bravery and treasure for all the young boys out there. A great book loved as much by adults as it is by children.

10. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

The king deserves two mentions simply due to the sheer quality of his work. This tale of a little boy and his trip to Willy Wonka's incredible chocolate factory is another one of those incredible reads that will never grow old.

What are your favorite books to read with your children?

Guest Post By Alisha Webb on behalf of York Notes.com -Revision Books, Guides and Chapter Summaries on English Literature.

Alisha Webb is British writer working out of Barcelona, Spain. She holds an MA in Creative Writing. Her poetry and short-fiction have been published extensively across the world. She is a keen traveler, reader, and moviegoer.