When it comes to children's books, I'm a fan of the classics. You can't go wrong with a story like Good Night Moon or Charlotte's Web. But with every passing year, more and more books hit the shelves, and it turns out that some of these newer ones are pretty great too.
Wondering which children's books from 2013 deserve a place on your child's nightstand? Parents, editors, librarians and kids have all spoken, and the following are among the books that they consider to be the best of the best.
Wonder, by R.J. Palacio
This story about a 5th grade boy with a facial deformity who heads to mainstream school for the first time has landed at the top of many prestigious book lists. Wonder is a chapter book told from multiple perspectives, and is geared towards children ages 8-12.
Mr. Wuffles, by David Wiesner
When it comes to creative and imaginative picture books, David Wiesner is considered a master. His latest — about a cat who plays with a spaceship full of aliens — is another gem. Though there is little text, Mr. Wuffles is best for early elementary readers, as preschoolers may not understand the somewhat complex storyline.
Let's Go For a Drive, by Mo Willems
Mo Willem's Elephant and Piggie books are favorites among the preschool set, and the newest addition to the series is as entertaining as its predecessors.
Liar and Spy, by Rebecca Stead
This well-written and engaging young adult novel follows the story of seventh grader George as he navigates school, friendship, and family. Liar and Spy, an instant New York Times bestseller, will engage young readers and keep them guessing, right up until the surprising twist at the very end.
Three Times Lucky, by Sheila Turnage
In her debut novel, Sheila Turnage manages to perfectly combine mystery, suspense and Southern humor. Three Times Lucky is a 2013 Newberry Honor Winner, and is geared toward readers ages 10 and up.
Z Is for Moose, by Kelly Bingham
Kelly Bingham's fun and beautifully illustrated picture book offers a great way for early readers to learn and practice the alphabet. Z Is for Moose isn't your typical ABC book, but it is one you should definitely read aloud with your kids.
Charley's First Night, by Amy Hest
Readers in grades K-2 will love this sweet and simple story about a puppy named Charley and his first night in his new home with a little boy named Henry.
The Day the Crayons Quit, by Drew Daywalt
Can crayons have feelings too? In this "out-of-the-box" picture book, they can and they do, and kids ages 3-7 will enjoy reading what the various colors have to say. As one critic wrote "kids who already attribute feelings to their playthings will never look at crayons the same way again."
The One and Only Ivan, by Katherine Applegate
The One and Only Ivan is based on the true story of a real-life gorilla who spent most of his life in a small glass enclosure in a local mall. Katherine Applegate's first-person narrative brings Ivan's story to life, and encourages young readers to think more compasssionately about our animal friends.
See the complete list of 2013 Notable Children's Books at the American Library Association website.
