There are perhaps no days of our childhood we lived so fully as those we spent with a favourite book. —Marcel Proust

I still remember the first classic I picked up when I was thirteen—Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. It wasn’t just a story; it was a whole world that welcomed me in, filled with characters that felt real, witty exchanges that made me laugh, and a society that was both foreign and strangely familiar. Every page brought me deeper into the lives of Elizabeth Bennet, her spirited family, and the enigmatic Mr Darcy. The novel opened my eyes to the subtleties of human nature, love, and social expectations, and sparked a lifelong appreciation for classics. Now, as an Editorial Coordinator, I realise how important it is to bring the magic of these classics to young readers everywhere.

So, what makes a book a classic? Classics are stories that have stood the test of time, captivating readers across generations. Classic literature goes beyond simple storytelling. These books—whether they feature talking animals, magical lands, or real-life adventures—carry themes that resonate across ages. They introduce children to big ideas like courage, empathy, resilience, and the beauty of imagination. Stories like Charlotte’s Web, for instance, teach valuable lessons about friendship and loss, while Peter Pan celebrates the joy and freedom of childhood. Classics have a way of connecting deeply with readers, encouraging them to see the world through new perspectives and reflect on their own experiences.

Reading these stories early on also helps nurture a lifelong love for books. Classic literature introduces children to rich language, expansive vocabulary, and varied storytelling styles, which not only builds literacy skills but also fosters a sense of curiosity and imagination. This early exposure to great literature creates a foundation for lifelong learning, sparking interests that go beyond the pages and into the real world.

The impact of great classics on children is profound. Engaging with these stories helps foster a love for reading that can last a lifetime. From an early age, children are introduced to language in a meaningful context, enriching their vocabulary and enhancing their comprehension skills. The characters and plots often reflect real-life situations, allowing children to learn valuable life lessons while developing empathy and understanding. Classics serve as a bridge to explore complex emotions, encouraging children to think critically about the world around them.

When choosing classics for young readers, it’s essential to consider their age and maturity. Look for simplified adaptations that maintain the original spirit of the story but are more accessible in language and themes. Beautiful illustrations can also bring these stories to life, helping children visualise the story and keeping them engaged. Choosing stories with relatable characters and uplifting themes—like friendship, bravery, and adventure—ensures that children connect with the stories on a meaningful level.

Here’s a list of beloved classics that are perfect for young readers, with stories that balance age-appropriate language and themes while keeping the essence of each tale alive:

1. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
2. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain
3. Daddy-Long-Legs by Jean Webster
4. The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
5. Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
6. The Story of Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting
7. Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift
8. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
9. Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens
10. Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery