I had a lot of trouble with reading comprehension as a child. Sounder was the first book I read in one sitting and really enjoyed it.

I remember reading this book as a kid and wanting to be exactly like Pippi: super strong, unworried about beauty standards (Pippi thought freckle-rid creams were dumb- saying there should be cream to grow more freckles,) who did things her own way (like strapping scrubbies to her feet to turn mopping into skating.) She also owned her own home, had extensive an oddity collection, and unusual pets. I think this book influenced adult me... a gym-going, bone-collecting, arachnid-owner...

Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle is a quirky hero for the children in her neighborhood, who also offers help to parents with troubles. With her upside down house, animal friends and pirate husband, Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle stories are heartwarming, funny and memorable.

A great book to remind everyone to love their bodies no matter what they look like.

Pipi Longstocking tells of a child as the hero of their own story.  The strongest girl in the world, lives on her own with a monkey and a horse and stands up to unfair rules. She is a children's champion and shows you can be yourself, and if that means being a bit weird that's not only fine but it's a good thing, and Pipi is right there with you.

I loved history as a kid (& still do) , so of course the Dear America series was a hit with me! These books and the Royal Diaries series, were a great way to learn about historical moments through 'first hand' fictional accounts.

Now is a great time to revisit this classic series or introduce to your children because the first installment in the new movie adaption by Director Greta Gerwig is scheduled to be released in February 2027! The most popular book in the series is The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. While some people choose to start there, you could also start with the prequel, The Magician's Nephew. Either way, you'll be transported to a magical world you won't forget!

12 year old Claudia and her brother run away to NYC and hide out in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. She becomes obsessed with a beautiful statue there and her obsession leads her on an adventure a lifetime. This is a well thought out mystery adventure for middle grade readers by an award winning author. It makes a great read-aloud too. (The book is better than the movie!)

Mandy was a favorite of mine as a kid. It features a girl who is orphaned and finds a secret cottage all her own. While she loves her secret place, Mandy ultimately searches for and finds a permanent home and family. A classic read-alike would be The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. This is written by Julie Andrews Edwards, who starred in Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music. Readers may also enjoy her memoirs.