Timeless Reads: 10 Classics from the 2021 Top 50 Kids’ Books

The 2021 Top 50 Kids’ Booklist is out, and we can’t help but notice the number of classic stories that have returned to the list year after year. There’s a good chance that you read these books as a child, that you read them to your children, and that your children’s children might also read them!

The following ten books have been beloved by generations of readers – both adults and children alike. Decades after publication, they continue to play a role in inspiring children to read and explore imaginary worlds and characters.

Here are ten of our favourite classics from the 2021 Top 50 Kids’ books:

The Magic Faraway Tree by Enid Blyton

Can you believe that this was first published in 1943? It’s the second book in Blyton’s Faraway Tree series, and one of the most loved children’s books of all time. The adventures and fantasy worlds atop the tree live in the minds of generations of young readers.

Ages 6+

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Another book from a classic fantasy series, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe has captivated millions of readers since it was first published in 1949. When four young siblings evacuate London during WWII, they discover a wardrobe that leads to the magical world of Narnia.

Ages 9+

Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

Charlotte’s Web is a time-honoured favourite about a girl Fern, her pet pig Wilbur, and the clever spider Charlotte who concocts a plan to save Wilbur from an unfortunate fate.

Ages 7+

Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

First published in 1907, Anne of Green Gables is a beloved classic about a bad-tempered, naughty, red-haired orphan girl who charms an entire town. It has also charmed generations of readers around the world ever since.

Ages 9+

The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett

A timeless classic that follows young Mary Lennox who, after losing her parents, is sent to live in her uncle’s gloomy mansion on the wild English moors. When Mary uncovers an old key in a flowerbed, and a hidden door in the garden, she enters a world she could never have imagined.

Ages 9+

The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

A previous winner of our Top 50 Kids’ books, Eric Carle’s classic picture book continues to brighten the eyes of younger children with its vivid illustrations and simple yet hopeful story.

Ages 0+

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl

Kids everywhere have dreamed of a trip into Willy Wonka’s wacky and wonderful chocolate factory! When young Charlie Bucket wins a golden ticket to visit the factory with four other children, all sorts of shenanigans follow.

Ages 8+

The Complete Adventures of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie by May Gibbs

First published over 100 years ago in 1918, these delightful tales of iconic Australian folklore have never been out of print. The enchanting world of the gumnut babies and other bush characters continues to be a classic for today’s young readers.

Ages 3+

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr Suess

‘I do not like green eggs and ham. I do not like them, Sam-I-Am!’ This clever rhyme has stuck in the minds of everyone who has enjoyed reading Dr Seuss. At its heart, Green Eggs and Ham encourages kids to try different things before deciding if they like them.

Ages 4+

Matilda by Roald Dahl

Who doesn’t dream of having magical powers? Matilda is another Roald Dahl classic and a firm fixture on our Top 50 list year after year. The character of Matilda, with her special abilities and dislike of the horrible headmistress Trunchbull, continues to resonate with countless kids today.

Ages 8+