When was the last time you read a child’s book for your own personal interest? This question is for parents, educators, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and especially for those people who hate reading.

This is the best time to read children’s books. The books that are available are so rich in content, and the art! The illustrations are brilliant!

I’m advocating for adults to read childrens books, yet I have a confession: I have to admit that I had never read the book: The Wind and the Willows. While this book is not a new book (it was first published in 1908), it was recently illustrated, and also, recently brought to my attention. The book has such rich vocabulary, and it’s hilarious! I find myself cracking up over the funniest, and sweetest characters in this book. It teaches patience, respect, friendship and so many other great qualities.

Unfortunately, I can not say that I read this book for my own amusement, I have a child, and so of course, every book I buy or borrow from a library is directed towards my kid. The Wind and the Willows, was also meant for my little. I always make the mistake of reading the best books during bedtime. And this book is one of those great books, because even though it is wonderful, it is very heavy. The pages are long, the conversations are thorough and just like Beatrix Potter’s books, a little advanced. It’s great sleeping material, though. Here’s a revelation: I end up reading the book long after my child is asleep, so I actually can say that I choose those books for my own amusement.

Choosing good books is a difficult task. Not only are there numerous books, but there are also a tremendous amount of subjects. The books you think are going to interest your child, don’t even keep them entertained for their 2 minute attention span. You really just have to take them to the library to find their interests. Sometimes I get lucky, and this blog is all about those lucky books.

All the books I’m about to recommend, have also not been read for my own amusement. So don’t judge, just listen, and read children’s books.

Karl, Get Out of The Garden! By Anita Sanchez is beautifully illustrated by Catherine Stock and details the life of Carolus Linnaeus and explains how he was able to catalog and organize the animals in the world. It’s written beautifully and is interesting enough for parents to be engaged, as well.

One Beetle Too Many by Kathryn Lasky, Illustrated by Matthew Trueman, is also a great read. It might be a little more detailed for smaller children, but it tells the life of Charles Darwin in a smart way.

M is for Movement by Innosanto Nagara teaches children about corruption, collusion and nepotism. My six year old really enjoyed this book. We read it through it’s entirety because of it’s great message and well written story.

All of these books are not about fictional characters. They are written and illustrated in ways that engages children and allows them to embrace truth and history in a way that will forever stay in their minds through the power of written and illustrated words.

We are living in the Information Age. It’s a great time to find powerful and educational resources that will inspire and help us grow. Even though these books are for kids, I entreat adults to keep an eye out for books like these, even though you feel you’re too mature for kid things.