10 Children’s Picture Books To Re-Read As An Adult

Because you probably missed something the first time.

1. The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister

NorthSouth

Why it’s worth a re-read: You loved this book as a kid because there were sparkles and glitter on each of the pages, however, the story also shines for another reason. The Rainbow Fish teaches us that sharing leads to happiness and friendship: “The rainbow fish shared his scales left and right. And the move he gave away, the more delighted he became."

2. Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson

Harper & Brothers

Why it’s worth a re-read: Imagination is everything to a child, but is majorly lost as we become adults. Harold lets his imagination run wild as he draws with his purple crayon. He’ll make you want to dig out your old box of crayons and think of simpler times.

3. Diary of a Fly by Doreen Cronin

HarperCollins

Why it’s worth a re-read: Diary of a Fly is a funny book that teaches us to consider things from someone else’s perspective. It shows that everyone has their own dreams and own personal struggles, which is often forgotten when we only focus on ourselves. It’ll definitely make you think twice before you pull out the fly swatter. “The world needs all kinds of heroes."

4. The Lorax by Dr. Seuss

Random House Books for Young Readers

Why it’s worth a re-read: The Lorax shows us how the environment is destroyed by the greed of the Once-ler- a very important message for our lifestyle of consumerism. It reminds us that we have to take care of our own earth: "UNLESS someone like you cares a whole awful lot… Nothing is going to get better… It's not."

5. The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams

Doubleday Books for Young Readers

Why it’s worth a re-read: You’ll never fully appreciate the story of The Velveteen Rabbit until you read it as an adult. The story shows the power of love: “Once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand."

6. The Paperbag Princess by Robert Munsch

Annick Press

Why it’s worth a re-read: When the Ronald the prince says “Come back and rescue me when you’re dressed like a real princess," The Paper Bag Princess teaches us that is okay to let go of people who treat us poorly.

7. Something From Nothing by Phoebe Gilman

Scholastic

Why it’s worth a re-read: This Jewish folktale shows how an item can be recycled and reused and gain sentimental value. It’s a good story to think about if you’re someone who always throws out something as soon as a newer version is released.

8. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day by Judith Viorst

Atheneum Books for Young Readers

Why it’s worth a re-read: You’ll be able to relate to Alexander because everyone, everywhere, has experienced a bad day: "Some days are like that... Even in Australia.”

9. The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

HarperCollins

Why it’s worth a re-read: Upon first read, The Giving Tree is a story of caring, love, and complete selflessness. As an adult re-reading this book, you may begin to feel some disdain towards the boy in the book, who is unappreciative towards the tree who gives him everything. It’ll make you think about your own relationships and whether they're more give or take.

10. Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems

Disney-Hyperion

Why it’s worth a re-read: This book is fairly new, so you probably didn’t read it as a kid... but it's included on this list because it'll give you a good laugh.