Back To The Future

BACK TO THE FUTURE
REVISIT THESE CHILDREN'S CLASSICS WITH YOUR KIDS FOR A WALK DOWN MEMORY LANE

There are some books that you read as a child that still resonate with you today. You know, the tales
that made you actually look forward to bedtime and, in retrospect, defined some of the most salient
moments in your childhood. We picked out a few classic must-reads, or re-reads, as the case may be.
There are so many reasons why these books made TFG’s list, but despite the catchy choruses,
breathtaking illustrations and valuable lessons, these old favorites not only make for a great literary
escape but also afford you a chance to make your children’s bedtime rituals ones that they’ll never forget
—and maybe even pass on to their children, too.

The Sailor Dog by Margaret Wise Brown
This tale of a resourceful pup of the seas is a must-read for animal lovers. Scupper's theme song (I'm Scupper the Sailor Dog/I'm Scupper the sailor dog/I can sail in a gale/right over a whale) will be stuck in your head for days, but the book has a positive can-do attitude that you definitely want to teach your tot.
($2.99, www.amazon.com)

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
This beautifully illustrated classic has inspired elementary school art projects, grown-up tattoos and countless other ideas, and it's sure to rouse your child's imagination. We won't be surprised if your son or daughter asks to be sent to bed without supper (just like Max, the main character) after becoming engrossed in this legendary book.
($17.95, www.amazon.com)

The Very Quiet Cricket by Eric Carle
Another book known for its innovative and magnificent illustrations, The Very Quiet Cricket is just one of Eric Carle's well-loved (and well respected) classics. We must admit, out of all the children’s book, this one takes first prize for its colorful brigade of insects and resounding chirp of a finale.
($22.99, www.amazon.com)

Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson
This story, a tale of imagination and make-believe, will captivate your mind's eye right along with your little babe. Who knew so much fun could come from a simple, purple crayon?
($6.99, www.amazon.com)

The Missing Piece by Shel Silverstein
Shel Silverstein's epic might just be the perfect analogy for life, reminding you to stay true to yourself while taking the time to stop and smell the roses. Whether you’re four, 14 or 44 years-old, the search for the missing piece is a journey you won’t forget—and often need to reminded of.
($19.99, www.amazon.com)

Love You Forever by Robert N. Munsch and Sheila McGraw
This heart-felt story of a mother-son bond, is not only a real tear-jerker for mom, but an amazing read. Even if your toddler doesn't completely grasp the magnitude of the story's main refrain ("I'll love you forever /I'll love you for always /As long as I'm living /My baby you'll be."), he'll definitely appreciate the tale's steady rhythm as it follows a young mother lovingly taking care of her infant son throughout all the season’s of his life, up until he's an adult taking care of his elderly mother. Grab the tissues before you sit down to read it.
($5.95, www.amazon.com)

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin
Help your youngster learn the alphabet with this catchy rhyme of a book that leaves you wondering, "Chicka chicka boom boom, will there be enough room?" The kaleidoscope of bright, tropical colors will transport you to another world—one where letters speak to each other as they race to meet at the top of the coconut tree. Its cadence and phrases will stick in your heads well after your kids have their drivers' licenses—and there’s nothing wrong with that, mama!
($10.99, www.amazon.com)

Scary Stories To Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz
For your grammar-school-aged child, the Scary Stories series are part humor, part spook, part smart and all fun. With their repeating refrains and quirky characters, they lend themselves to reading out loud. Most of these stories are modeled after classic folk tales and are sure to be told at campfires for years to come.
($5.99, www.amazon.com)

—Erin Scottberg