Award-Winning Treasures for Young Hearts
Grandparents hold a special place in a child's heart, often adorning their lives with love, wisdom, and cherished memories. One of the most precious gifts they can impart is a love for reading. In our book-buying guide designed exclusively for doting grandparents, we've curated a selection of award-winning children's books that will delight and inspire the young minds in your life.
These literary gems aren't just ordinary tales; they're award-winners celebrated for their captivating stories, beautiful illustrations, and valuable life lessons. Whether you're seeking heartwarming picture books for bedtime stories or engaging chapter books for young readers, our listicle will guide you through the world of children's literature, helping you find the perfect gift to foster a lifelong love for reading in your beloved grandchildren. It's time to embark on a literary journey that will create lasting bonds and ignite imaginations.
The Alphabet's Alphabet by Chris Harris, Illustrated by Dan Santat
"A is an H that won't stand upright, and B is really a D with a belt that's too tight" will teach your child that every letter is unique but connected to another – like a family. This silly, fun alphabet book will make your little one giggle with the fanciful illustrations and cute rhymes.
Hello Neighbor: The Kind and Caring World of Mister Rogers by Matthew Cordell
Colorful illustrations explore Fred Rogers' life and the events that led him to create his enduring show. Share the profound respect, care, and quiet joy with the only authorized picture book biography of Mister Rogers. Your little ones can get to know him, where he grew up, how he started his Neighborhood, and exactly what his legacy was.
Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera by Candance Fleming, Illustrated by Eric Rohmann
Journey through the lifecycle of a honeybee. From hatching to protecting her hive, cleaning combs, and adventuring outside to her life's end. Experience the beauty of one of the most essential life-sustaining species.
Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Pena, Illustrated by Christian Robinson
A must-have for every child's home library! This book is an inclusive ode to kindness, empathy, gratitude, and finding joy in unexpected places. It celebrates the bond between a curious young boy and his loving grandmother. This energetic ride through a bustling city gives the perspective that only a grandparent and grandchild can share.
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
Inspired by the true story of a captive gorilla known as Ivan, this illustrated book is told from the point of view of Ivan himself.
Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis
It's 1936 in Flint, Michigan, and ten-year-old Bud, a motherless boy on the run, has a few things going for him. He escapes a bad foster home and sets out searching for the man whom he believes to be his father.
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
This iconic children's book has become one of the most highly acclaimed and best-loved books of all time. It's a must for every child's bookshelf. From the moment Max puts on his wolf suit and creates havoc in the house to being sent to bed, Max's adventure is just beginning on an island where the wild things are.
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
Hugo, an orphan, clockkeeper, and thief, lives in the walls of a busy Paris train station, where he depends on secrets. Suddenly, his world connects with a girl and an old man who runs a toy booth in the station. Hugo's secret life and his most precious secret are put in jeopardy.
Criss Cross by Lynne Rae Perkins
Lynne Rae Perkins explores the crisscrossing lives of four teens on the verge of adulthood. These teens from a small town in the 1960s experience new thoughts and feelings, question their identities, connect and disconnect as they search for the meaning of life and love.
The Tale of Despereaux by Katie DiCamillo
Welcome to the adventures of Despereaux Tilling, a small mouse of unusual talents. A mouse who loves music and stories, and a Princess named Pea. Embark on an adventure, including a devious rat and a servant girl, with an impossible wish. Open the cover and turn the page. It is your destiny to find out what happens.
Toofer & The Giblet by Paulette LaBlanc
At the heart of Toofer & The Giblet is a deep friendship, revealed through the innocence and wisdom of its characters. On the surface, these books will teach children to value friendship, prize honesty, and act with integrity.
Toofer & The Giblet in The Big City by Paulette LeBlanc
Toofer & The Giblet in the Big City brings an excitement-filled adventure, sure to strike the heartstrings as well as the funny bone, as the characters travel outside Nimblewood for the first time. The Big City offers both Toof and Gib a chance see life from other perspectives, ultimately teaching them more about who they really are, and who they want to be.
Toofer & The Giblet The Season of Light by Paulette LeBlanc
Available for Pre-Sale just in time for the Holidays!
Season of Light is Nimblewood’s holiday celebration. Peppered with the main character’s typical banter, with an added layer of amusement and concern, Season of Light is the first segment in the series that offers the residents of Nimblewood the chance to gain a fresh perspective of their surroundings and what it might mean if everything were to change.
As our book-buying guide for grandparents comes to a close, we've embarked on a journey through the enchanting world of award-winning children's literature. These carefully selected books are more than just stories; they are keys that unlock the doors to imagination, empathy, and lifelong learning.
By choosing these books as gifts for your grandchildren, you're not just giving them pages to turn; you're offering a world of adventure, wisdom, and wonder. You're creating moments of togetherness, snuggled up for bedtime stories, or engaged in animated discussions about the characters and their journeys. These shared experiences will become treasured memories, etching your love and guidance into their hearts.
So, whether you're exploring the magic of picture books, venturing into the realms of chapter books, or diving into the imaginative worlds of middle-grade fiction, remember that each story holds the potential to enrich your grandchild's life. With these award-winning tales, you're not just gifting a lifelong love for reading and a deeper connection with your beloved grandchildren.
Happy reading! And may your book choices continue to nurture bonds that last a lifetime.