Classic children's books stand the test of time

When parents read to their young children, they hope to instill a love of reading that will carry through their youth into adulthood. Often, the first books that are introduced are books that the parents remember dearly from their own childhoods.

"The qualities that make a book memorable - unforgettable characters, top-notch writing, outstanding art work or just plain silliness - often determine whether it will stand the test of time and reach classic status," states KidsReads.com. "A book's staying power - its ability to remain popular with young readers and children's book professionals generation after generation - is another clear indication that a book is destined for classical endowment."

Some of the books on the website's classics list for various age groups aren't as famous as the hilarity of Dr. Seuss tales or popularized in films like Mary Poppins or the Chronicles of Narnia. But they have stood the test of time for their emotional impact, unique characters and timeless dilemmas that all children face.

For parents and other adults who wish to include these young reader gems on their holiday list, many are available at affordable prices by using a Half.com promotion code.

Ages 1 to 3: The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats. Winner of the prestigious Caldecott Medal for children's literature, this is the story of a boy's adventures on a crisp, snowy day. It was the first picture book to feature a young African-American character.

Ages 3 to 8: Along with his better-known Where the Wild Things Are, author Maurice Sendak's The Nutshell Library is included on the website's classics list. It is actually four small books in one volume: Alligators All Around: An Alphabet, Chicken Soup with Rice: A Book of Months, One Was Johnny: A Counting Book and Pierre: A Cautionary Tale in Five Chapters and a Prologue.

A memorable animated video has also been made of the Nutshell Library stories with music by singer-songwriter Carole King.

Ages 8 to 10: The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden. A group of talking animals who live in bustling New York City share adventures with Chester, a cricket who plays lovely music to soothe his friends.

Ages 10 to 12: A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle. Winner of the Newbery Medal for children's literature, this tale of time travel includes fantasy, family loyalty and a lesson in the battle between good and evil.  

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