10 picture books that are a lot of fun

1. Curious George by H. A. Rey

It's funny, colorful, and sweet. You'll smile every time you read it.

2. Eloise by Kay Thompson


This isn't really a kids' book but rather a book for "precocious grown-ups" as Thompson says. Eloise is the child I wish I had had the guts to be.

3. Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey


My dad's favorite. Every morning when he dropped me off at school, he used to say "Don't forget to make way for ducklings!"

4. Strega Nona by Tomie DePaolo


A clever old witch, a trouble-making teenager, and a magical pasta pot star in this funny, unique fable.

5. Babar by Jean de Brunhoff

There are some criticisms of these books, notably that they are imperialist, present an idealistic view of the world which is unsafe for today's kids, etc. I don't know how true those are. All I know is that I loved Babar when I was a kid. What's not to love about an elephant in a suit?

6. Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey


A very simple story, but one that my friends and I all loved as kids. A short, easy book for begninning readers.

7. The Boo Baby Girl Meets the Ghost of Mable's Gable by Jim May

This little-known book is hard to find but it's absolutely hilarious at any age. Adults and kids will have a good laugh.

8. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle


This classic book may be too plain for older kids, but will be hugely popular with little ones. They'll probably want to pretend to be the caterpillar. It's also a good way to get them to finish their veggies- "Pretend you're the very hungry caterpillar! Now, wouldn't he eat his spinach?"

9. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak


My dad actually has this book memorized from reading it to us so many times. It's that good. Warner Bros. is making a movie, and I hope it lives up to the creativity and magic of the book.

10. Winnie the Pooh by A. A. Milne


No words can describe its sweetness and universal appeal. Just read it.