Books can be a good friend to anyone. It is just a repository of knowledge. Books give us values, identify us from the civilization where we have our foundation. It is the responsibility of parents to encourage their kids to read books beyond the syllabus. Initially, Kid stories books create interest in reading them.

25 books children should read before they are 14

Here are some must-read storybooks for kids and classic children’s books for ages 9-12:-

1. The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe:

"The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe" is a timeless fantasy novel and the first book in C.S. Lewis's classic "The Chronicles of Narnia" series. Set during World War II, it follows the adventures of four siblings who discover a magical world through a wardrobe. In Narnia, they encounter talking animals, mythical beings, and embark on a quest to defeat the White Witch and restore peace. This enchanting tale of courage, loyalty, and the battle between good and evil has captured the hearts of readers across generations. The classic children’s books by the age of 9-12, is full of ups and downs of life.

2. Winnie The Pooh by A.A. Milne:

"Winnie The Pooh" is a timeless children's book written by A.A. Milne, cherished for its endearing characters and whimsical adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood. The charming tales of Pooh Bear, Piglet, Eeyore, and their friends, accompanied by the captivating illustrations of E.H. Shepard, have enchanted both children and adults for decades. The stories impart gentle wisdom and celebrate the joys of friendship, nature, and imagination, earning a beloved place in literary history. This storybook for kids gives children immense pleasure.

3. Harry Potter series by J. K Rowling:

Rowling’s series is a classic storybook for kids, covering the magical world. The Harry Potter series, penned by J.K. Rowling, delves into the enchanting world of wizardry, following the extraordinary journey of a young wizard, Harry Potter, and his friends at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. With themes of courage, friendship, and the eternal battle between good and evil, the series has captivated readers of all ages and has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Through its richly detailed magical universe and compelling narrative, the series continues to inspire and enthrall millions of readers worldwide. This is one of the finest classical children’s books for ages 9-12.

4. The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling:

"The Jungle Book" by Rudyard Kipling is a classic collection of captivating stories set in the lush jungles of India, featuring Mowgli, a young boy raised by wolves, and a host of unforgettable animal characters. The tales brim with adventure, friendship, and the timeless wisdom of the jungle, offering readers a glimpse into the enchanting world of the wild. Kipling's evocative prose and the enduring appeal of Mowgli's adventures have secured the book's place as a beloved literary treasure for readers of all ages. The classic kid stories book is also made into various movies and cartoons.

Anne frank- the cover picture of her book

5. The Diary of A Young Girl by Anne Frank:

"The Diary of A Young Girl" is a poignant and introspective firsthand account penned by Anne Frank during the Holocaust. This enduring memoir illuminates the experiences and thoughts of a young Jewish girl living in hiding during World War II, offering profound insights into the human spirit, resilience, and the atrocities of the Holocaust. Anne's heartfelt narrative continues to resonate with readers worldwide, serving as a timeless testament to the enduring power of hope and the unyielding pursuit of compassion amidst adversity.

6. Funnybones by Janet and Allan Ahlberg:

"Funnybones" by Janet and Allan Ahlberg is a delightful children's book that takes young readers on a whimsical journey with the mischievous skeletons, Big Skeleton, Little Skeleton, and Dog Skeleton. With its engaging narrative and charming illustrations, the book introduces children to the concept of humorously spooky adventures, inspiring giggles and igniting their imagination. The Ahlbergs' creative storytelling and playful characters have made "Funnybones" a beloved classic, enchanting generations of young readers with its blend of humor and gentle thrills. The book can be listed in the must-read storybook for kids.

7. Great Expectations by Charles Dickens:

"Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens is a timeless classic that follows the life of a young orphan named Pip as he navigates through the challenges of social class, love, and identity in Victorian England. Through vivid characters and intricate storytelling, Dickens weaves a tale of ambition, moral growth, and societal expectations. The novel's enduring relevance and rich literary depth have solidified its status as a beloved masterpiece, captivating readers with its exploration of human nature and the complexities of society. As classic children’s books, it gives them some lifelong lessons.

8. Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson:

"Treasure Island" by Robert Louis Stevenson is a timeless adventure novel that unfolds a thrilling tale of pirates, treasure hunts, and high-seas escapades. Through the eyes of young Jim Hawkins, readers are transported to a world of swashbuckling excitement as he sets sail on a daring quest to discover hidden riches. Filled with unforgettable characters, secret maps, and daring escapades, this classic tale has captured the imagination of readers for generations, earning its place as a beloved adventure story in literary history. The book can be a classic children’s book for ages 9-12 if they love the iconic character of Captain Jack Sparrow played by Johnny Depp.

9. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle:

"The Very Hungry Caterpillar" by Eric Carle is a beloved children's book that charmingly narrates the journey of a ravenous caterpillar's transformation into a beautiful butterfly. Through vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, the book introduces young readers to the concepts of numbers, days of the week, and the life cycle of a butterfly. With its enduring appeal and whimsical narrative, "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" has captured the hearts of children worldwide, making it a cherished classic in children's literature. The book is the highest-selling book. Around 50 million copies have been sold worldwide so far.

10. Panchatantra by Vishnu Sharma:

The Panchatantra, a renowned collection of fables, is attributed to Vishnu Sharma, an ancient Indian scholar. These poignant tales, predominantly featuring animal characters, impart timeless wisdom and moral lessons on topics such as governance, friendship, and moral conduct. Through engaging narratives, the Panchatantra captivates readers with its enduring relevance and profound insight, making it an essential piece of world literature. The book is a collection of stories written on animals woven interestingly.

11. Ramayana & Mahabharata by C Rajagopalachari:

"Ramayana and Mahabharata" by C. Rajagopalachari are retellings of the timeless Indian epics, presenting the captivating narratives of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata in a lucid and engaging manner. Rajagopalachari's renditions of these epics aimed to make the profound tales more accessible to a wider audience, ensuring that their timeless wisdom and moral teachings endure through generations. With eloquent storytelling and deep insight, these retellings have become cherished literary works, preserving the rich heritage and cultural significance of these epic tales. Our children should read these stories, not just religiously but to take inspiration.

12. Malgudi Days by R.k. Narayan:

malgudi days cover picture of the story book

"Malgudi Days" by R.K. Narayan is a delightful collection of short stories that artfully depict the everyday lives and experiences of characters in the fictional town of Malgudi. Through Narayan's evocative storytelling, readers are transported into a world brimming with humor, warmth, and the vibrant tapestry of human emotions. The tales offer poignant insights into the human condition and the unique charm of small-town India, making "Malgudi Days" a beloved classic in Indian literature. It is a collection of 32 stories. These stories are related to the fictional city of Malgudi in South India, the distinct activities there, and interesting characters. This book is a famous one between children of the age group 9-12.

13. Wise and otherwise:

A salute to life’ by Sudha Murty: This storybook for kids deals with the struggles of Sudha Murthy in her personal life. "Wise and Otherwise" is a thought-provoking collection of stories by Sudha Murty that offers insightful glimpses into human nature, morality, and the diverse tapestry of Indian society. Through her engaging narratives, Murty skillfully weaves together anecdotes that carry profound life lessons while shedding light on contemporary societal issues. This acclaimed work has resonated with readers, offering compelling perspectives on various human experiences and prompting reflection on the complexities of life. I must say this is the most recommended one of the classic children’s books.

14. The Vedas and Upanishads for children by Roopa Pai:

"The Vedas and Upanishads for Children" by Roopa Pai is an insightful and engaging adaptation that brings the profound wisdom of ancient Indian scriptures to young readers. Through vibrant storytelling, Pai presents the essence of the Vedas and Upanishads, making the spiritual and philosophical teachings accessible and relatable to children. The book serves as an excellent introduction to these sacred texts, offering young readers a deeper understanding of Indian culture, spirituality, and timeless wisdom.

15. Hitopadesha:

This book is somewhat similar to the Panchatantra book. Hitopadesha, composed by Narayana Pandit, is an ancient Indian collection of fables that imparts timeless wisdom through engaging animal allegories. The stories offer moral lessons on governance, friendship, and ethical conduct, serving as a guide for principled living. With its insightful narratives, the Hitopadesha continues to captivate readers with its enduring relevance and profound teachings, making it an essential piece of world literature.

16. The history of India for Children by Archana Garodia Gupta & Shruti Garodia:

"The History of India for Children" by Archana Garodia Gupta and Shruti Garodia is an engaging and informative book that introduces young readers to the rich tapestry of India's history. Through captivating narratives and vibrant illustrations, the book offers a compelling journey through India's ancient civilizations, empires, and diverse cultural heritage. It serves as an excellent resource for children to gain a deeper understanding of India's fascinating history, fostering a sense of appreciation for the country's legacy and cultural richness. This is the book that explains Indian historical backgrounds through stories in an easy way so that it can be classified as a must-read storybook for kids.

17. Rusty series by Ruskin Bond:

Bond’s fictional character Rusty narrates interesting and inspiring stories of his past. "Rusty" is a beloved series of novels and short stories written by renowned Indian author Ruskin Bond. The series follows the adventures of Rusty, a young Anglo-Indian boy, and captures his experiences, friendships, and escapades in the picturesque backdrop of the Himalayas. Through vivid storytelling and poignant reflections on nature and human relationships, Bond's "Rusty" series has enchanted readers of all ages, earning its place as a cherished classic in Indian literature. The novel is listed as a classic children’s books for ages 9-12.

18. Grand Ma’s Bag of Stories by Sudha Murthy:

The author penned the story around the grandmother. "Grandma's Bag of Stories" by Sudha Murthy is a delightful collection of heartwarming tales that reflect the rich tapestry of Indian culture and traditions. Through captivating storytelling, Murthy weaves together narratives that resonate with wisdom, compassion, and the enduring values that shape human relationships. The book offers young readers a treasure trove of delightful stories that inspire empathy, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for the world around them, making it a cherished addition to children's literature. The book fills the void and gives immense pleasure to any child who is deprived of grandparents.

19. Gulliver’s Travel:

Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift is a classic work of satirical fiction that recounts the daring journeys of Lemuel Gulliver to imaginary lands inhabited by curious creatures and societies. Through Gulliver's adventures, Swift delivers a commentary on human nature, politics, and society, employing wit and humor to offer insightful critiques of 18th-century European civilization. Counted among stellar stories book for kids, written by Irish author Jonathan Swift. The story revolves around a traveler Gulliver who reached islands of tiny. Gulliver, for them, is a giant man who can solve their problems. The novel continues to captivate readers with its inventive storytelling and thought-provoking satire, securing its place as a timeless literary masterpiece. One of the classic children’s books by the age of 14.

20. Pashu by Devdutt Pattanaik:

This kid stories book is based on the importance of Hinduism animals."Pashu" by Devdutt Pattanaik is an evocative tale that interweaves mythology and the animal kingdom, offering readers a captivating exploration of human-animal relationships and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Through insightful storytelling and beautiful illustrations, Pattanaik presents a thought-provoking narrative that delves into the symbolic significance of animals in ancient Indian mythology, fostering a deeper understanding of the cultural and spiritual connections between humans and the natural world. The book serves as a compelling introduction to mythology and folklore, inviting readers to contemplate the profound wisdom embedded in these timeless stories. Seeing the picture of any God and Goddess, children will have many questions in their minds; this book is capable of answering some of those questions.

21. The giving tree by Shel Silverstein:

This storybook for kids revolves around a child and an apple tree. "The Giving Tree" by Shel Silverstein is a poignant and timeless children's book that tells the story of a selfless tree and a boy who grows up with her. Through simple yet profound storytelling and evocative illustrations, the book explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the transformative nature of relationships. With its heartfelt narrative, the book teaches invaluable lessons about empathy, kindness, and the enduring power of giving, making it a cherished classic that resonates with readers of all ages. This book is written on the relation of a tree and a human. For a child to understand what nature love is, it is a must-read kid storybook.

22. Black Beauty by Anna Sewell:

Anna Sewell wrote this story in her last days. "Black Beauty" by Anna Sewell is a timeless classic that has captivated readers for generations. Through the eyes of the horse, Black Beauty, the novel offers a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of animal welfare and empathy. Sewell's advocacy for humane treatment of animals and her evocative storytelling have secured the book's status as an enduring and influential work, promoting compassion towards all living beings. This story is about a horse named black beauty who tells her own story. It is interesting to read all the difficulties he faced in his life. Such kinds of stories will fill them with bliss.

23. Luka and the fire of life by Salman Rushdie:

The storybook revolves around the happening incidents and struggles in Luca’s and her father’s life. "Luka and the Fire of Life" by Salman Rushdie is a captivating and imaginative tale that follows the adventures of a young boy named Luka as he embarks on a magical quest to save his father. The novel is filled with enchanting characters and fantastical landscapes, inviting readers into a world brimming with wonder and wisdom. Rushdie's masterful storytelling and rich imagination make "Luka and the Fire of Life" a compelling and enchanting read for both young and adult audiences. It is an interestingly woven classic children’s book for ages 9-12.

24. Letters from a father to his daughter by Jawaharlal Nehru:

The book is a collection of letters sent by Jawaharlal Nehru to his 10-year-old daughter Indira Gandhi in Mussoorie."Letters from a Father to His Daughter" by Jawaharlal Nehru is a collection of heartfelt and insightful letters written by the author to his young daughter, Indira. In these letters, Nehru shares a wealth of knowledge about India's history, culture, and the world, all while imparting valuable life lessons to his daughter. The book serves as an endearing and enlightening testimony to the special bond between a father and his child, offering readers a unique perspective on Nehru as both a leader and a loving parent.

25. The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin bond:

The book revolves around the fate of a girl named Binia and her blue umbrella. "The Blue Umbrella" by Ruskin Bond is a heartwarming and enchanting novella that tells the story of a young girl named Binya and her cherished blue umbrella. Set in the picturesque hills of Garhwal, the narrative beautifully captures the innocence, joys, and challenges of childhood in a rural setting. With its endearing characters and evocative storytelling, Bond's novella serves as a timeless portrayal of human connections and the simple pleasures of life, making it a beloved classic in Indian literature. It is recognized as the classic children’s books by the age of 14.

Conclusion

Now that you have an idea of books for 14-yearolds, Opening worlds of discovery, imagination, and learning to kids, books allow the reader to benefit from both accessibility and common sense when it comes to abstract understanding. A picture book or an exciting chapter book with some real critical thinking will provide a plethora of benefits for reading. Books for kids are a fantastic source that enables them to make science a part of their life, learn history, and explore magical worlds-the building blocks of their understanding and creativity. An excellent method to encourage kids to be lifelong readers is by investing in books that appeal to the kids' interests and reading levels. As you select the books for your child, then you'll not only help them grow in literacy skills but also turn them into lifelong learners of the world.

FAQs

1. Why are books necessary for kids?

Books for children play a vital role in the mental and emotional development of kids. They help improve language skills, enhance imagination, and create a love for learning, making reading an integral part of early growth in a child.

2. How do I choose the right books for kids?

Consider the age of the child, the interests of the child, and his reading level. Younger children would love to read picture books, while older kids may enjoy the chapter books. Ensure to select books with enough mystery to engross their interest and suitable for their age.

3. What are the best genres of books for kids?

Fantasy, adventure, mystery, science fiction, and educational books come at the top of the list as some of the most popular children's book genres. Among them, other popular ones include picture books, graphic novels, and non-fiction books.

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