You can never go wrong giving a classic book to the children and young adults on your gift giving list. But why not really dazzle them with the latest and greatest book reads?

 

 

I love giving books for the holidays. I gave books to my children every year when they were growing up and I’m continuing that tradition by giving books to my grandchildren. Books are a lasting reminder of how much I adore sharing the gift of literature with those I care the most about.

If you aren’t around children and young adults regularly, it is hard to know what books for these age groups are new, popular, and meaningful to give and receive. Being on a school board, belonging to the community of Good Reads, talking with other book lovers, attending the LA Times Festival of Books, and checking the current NY Times Bestseller list all provided me with some great titles to investigate. The following are my latest  favorite choices; books that would make great gifts for the children and youth on anyone’s list:

Board Book (Age 18 months-2 Years)

The Baby Lit Series by Jennifer Adams

The Baby Lit Book Series are a fashionable way to introduce children to basic concepts through the world of classic literature. This title uses Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland to teach colors.

Early Reader/Read Along Book (Age 3-5)

The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak

“At once disarmingly simple and ingeniously imaginative, The Book With No Pictures inspires laughter every time it is opened, creating a warm and joyous experience to share—and introducing young children to the powerful idea that the written word can be an unending source of mischief and delight.”

Early Chapter Book (Age 7-11)

The Princess In Black by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale

A new chapter book series starring Princess Magnolia, who, when trouble calls, trades her frilly dresses and glass slippers for a black mask and cape to become The Princess In Black.

Young Adult Book (Age 13 and above)

Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

“A masterfully told true story… nothing less than a marvel (Washingtonian). The new Common Core Standards requires young adults to be able to read and understand non-fiction. This book spent three years on the New York Times Best Seller List and is soon to be a major motion picture. Inspiring, powerful, and moving.

These books will engage the young readers on your list and provide pleasurable reading experiences for years to come. Give and enjoy!!

What is your favorite children’s or young adult book to read and/or give away?