Best Children’s Literature Books April 2025

Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH

Mrs. Frisby, a widowed mouse, faces a crisis when her youngest son falls ill just as the family must move to avoid the farmer’s plow. Desperate for help, she discovers a colony of extraordinary rats living beneath a rosebush. These aren’t ordinary rodents, but escaped lab subjects with enhanced intelligence. As Mrs. Frisby learns their incredible story, she finds herself caught up in a daring plan that will test her courage and challenge everything she thought she knew about the world around her.

Jacob Have I Loved

Sara Louise Bradshaw’s life on a tiny Chesapeake Bay island is overshadowed by her twin sister Caroline’s beauty and talent. As she grapples with jealousy and self-doubt, Louise finds solace in the island’s rhythms and her crabbing skiff. Paterson’s poignant coming-of-age tale explores the complexities of sibling rivalry, first love, and finding one’s place in the world. Through Louise’s eyes, we experience the bittersweet journey of growing up and learning to love oneself.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw

Greg Heffley’s back, and this time he’s in hot water with his dad. Frank’s had enough of Greg’s lazy ways and decides it’s time to toughen him up. From threats of military school to embarrassing father-son bonding attempts, Greg’s summer is shaping up to be a disaster. As he navigates the perils of adolescence and his dad’s expectations, Greg’s witty observations and stick-figure illustrations bring his world to life. Will he survive his father’s plans, or will this truly be the last straw?

Misty of Chincoteague

Marguerite Henry’s beloved classic “Misty of Chincoteague” whisks readers away to the windswept shores of Assateague Island. Through the eyes of two determined siblings, we witness the magic of wild ponies and the thrill of the annual roundup. Henry’s vivid prose brings to life the salty air, the thundering hooves, and the bond between humans and animals. As I read, I found myself longing for my own pony adventure, feeling the sand between my toes and the sea breeze in my hair.

Anne of the Island

Revisit beloved Anne Shirley as she embarks on her college journey in Kingsport. With her trademark imagination and zest for life, Anne navigates new friendships, academic challenges, and matters of the heart. Montgomery’s vivid prose brings to life the charm of campus life and the bittersweet pangs of growing up. As Anne grapples with romance and self-discovery, readers will find themselves swept up in her world, laughing and sighing along with our plucky heroine. A timeless coming-of-age tale that captures the essence of youth and the power of dreams.

Bud, Not Buddy

Bud’s journey through Depression-era Michigan is a heartwarming tale of resilience and hope. Orphaned and alone, this plucky 10-year-old sets out to find the father he’s never known, armed only with his suitcase of precious possessions and an unshakeable belief. Curtis weaves humor and history into a poignant adventure that had me rooting for Bud every step of the way. It’s a story that lingers, reminding us of the power of family, both found and biological.

The Incredible Journey

Sheila Burnford’s “The Incredible Journey” is a heartwarming tale of loyalty and perseverance. Three beloved pets—a young Labrador, an old bull terrier, and a Siamese cat—embark on a perilous 300-mile trek through the Canadian wilderness to reunite with their owners. As they face hunger, harsh weather, and wild animals, their unwavering bond and instincts guide them home. Burnford’s vivid descriptions and touching moments make this adventure a timeless classic that still tugs at my heartstrings.

Encyclopedia Brown: Boy Detective

Meet Encyclopedia Brown, the ten-year-old sleuth with a knack for solving mysteries that baffle even the adults. In this charming collection of short stories, young readers join Leroy “Encyclopedia” Brown as he cracks cases in his hometown of Idaville. With his encyclopedic knowledge and sharp wit, Encyclopedia unravels puzzles ranging from stolen bicycles to missing pets. Sobol’s clever writing invites readers to put their own detective skills to the test, making this book a delightful blend of entertainment and mental exercise.

The Indian in the Cupboard

Imagine a world where your toys come to life! That’s exactly what happens to Omri when he discovers his old cupboard has magical powers. With a simple turn of a key, his plastic Indian figure transforms into a real, tiny person from the past. As Omri navigates this incredible secret, he learns valuable lessons about responsibility, friendship, and the complexities of different cultures. Banks weaves a captivating tale that will leave readers of all ages spellbound and yearning for their own magical adventure.

Shiloh

Marty Preston’s life changes forever when he discovers a mistreated beagle pup in the hills near his home. Naming the dog Shiloh, Marty forms an instant bond, but soon faces a heart-wrenching dilemma. The dog belongs to Judd Travers, a mean-spirited neighbor known for his cruelty. Torn between his conscience and the law, Marty must decide how far he’ll go to protect Shiloh. This touching tale of a boy’s love for a dog explores themes of loyalty, compassion, and the complexities of right and wrong.