A few of the authors in my writer’s group are talking about their favorite childhood books in their blogs. I’ve decided to steal their idea and write about some of the books that made a big impact on me when I was a kid.
The Three Billy Goats Gruff by Paul Gadone – Did you ever have that one book as a kid that your parents read to you so much that you had it memorized? That was me with Three Billy Goats Gruff. I’m pretty sure it’s the reason I am such an avid reader today. I memorized the book so well, knowing exactly when to use silly voices or turn the page, that I fooled my grandparents into thinking I could read at the age of 2. Thank goodness there is video evidence of this at my parents’ house.
Little Gorilla by Ruth Bornstein – This adorable book was special to me for many reasons. For one, this is a book that I bonded with my mom over. I have vivid memories of listening to her read this book and LOVING it. This book also taught me how to be excited over reading. My mom read with expression and inflection and the most fun voices. Reading has never been a chore for me, it’s always been enjoyable.
Meet Kirsten by Janet Beeler Shaw – Listen. I’m a millennial. Like most girls my age, the American Girls series was an integral part of my childhood. This one meant a lot to me for a lot of reasons. I received this book as a gift from my first grade teacher who bought every one of her students a book she chose for them at the end of the year. I was the only student to receive a chapter book. And it was my first chapter book ever. I felt so proud and smart in that moment, and I devoured the book. I’ll never forget that feeling. I’ve donated all my American Girl books at this point, but I can never give up that enscripted copy of Meet Kirsten.
