1.
Green Eggs and Ham
It won't be a surprise to see Dr. Suess ranked #1, but why this one, when there are so many others? For us, books for pre-readers have to engage an infant, but also the adult reading to them. No book gives adults the chance to be engaged narrators better than Green Eggs and Ham.
2.
Goodnight Moon
While many may argue over the best board book, fewer will challenge the best bed-time book. This Brown & Hurd milestone book captures the cadence of winding down for sleep like no other.
3.
Oh, the Places You'll Go!
Open and honest, with a beguiling rhythmic meter, this classic takes the concept of change and welcomes it in a way that make children (and adults!) less fearful of what lies ahead.
4.
Harold and the Purple Crayon
An absolute classic that erodes the barriers we impose on our imaginations. A top ten on any list.
5.
Moo, Baa, La La La!
No list would be complete without this Sandra Boynton animal noises board book. No accident that she also has a dominant presence as a cartoonist and songwriter as well.
6.
The Velveteen Rabbit
Arguably the greatest of the "message stories" in children's literature. A tale of love outlasting age, first published more than 90 years ago. We are definitely still in love with this book.
7.
Dr. Seuss's ABC: An Amazing Alphabet Book!
Who else but Dr. Seuss could entertain infants while also giving them their first alphabet lesson?
8.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Carle, like many other authors that made this list, takes a fundamental concept and distills it for our youngest minds. The marriage of images and text is also a winner.
9.
The Little Engine That Could
A book (a book for children at that) with a title that has passed into common parlance. This book distills the skill of persistence for children of all ages.
10.
Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?
Another classic from Eric Carle This is one of our favorite titles that falls into a call and response cadence.
11.
The Rainbow Fish
With a unique message of generosity and sharing this tale, with one-of-a-kind iridescent images, quickly became an international best seller and one of our favorites.
12.
The Foot Book
The published age range for this book it 0-2 yrs. Make that 0-99 yrs. Any one of the creations of Dr. Seuss that have this instantly recognizable meter are our instant favorites.
13.
Madeline
Although this book has become a French national treasure, Bemelmans was an Austrian who immigrated to New York City. The concepts in this wonderful series are older, but the equally wonderful illustrations make this accessible to all ages.
14.
There's a Wocket in My Pocket
Ridiculous and nonsensical rhymes; yes, but this book scores points for the message of acceptance; a must.
15.
On the Night You Were Born
A masterpiece for Nancy Tillman's illustrations alone, this book celebrates the arrival of a new life, providing endless opportunities to celebrate, but also to foreshadow the arrival of others.
16.
Stellaluna
Teamwork and friendships theme this whole series. We're in love with this untraditional character.
17.
The Very Busy Spider
This is Eric Carle again, and a wonderful complement to "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" and others.
18.
Big Red Barn
Often the secret of the best board book is matching the content perfectly to the development level of the infant. Few do this more successfully than Margaret Wise Brown, this time with illustrator Felicia Bond.
19.
Harry the Dirty Dog
Our "hero" rebels and gets so dirty his owners don't recognize him, but it isn't long before he is recognized and reunited with them. An enchanting tale and dare we say the illustrations are "spot" on?
20.
The Hat
This is a wonderful tale about "Hedgie" and his curiosity getting the better of him. It deserves a place on any top list, but our hat is also off to Jan Brett for her stunning illustrations.
21.
The Carrot Seed
One of the greatest marriages between the narrative and each illustration, this book appeals to infants and older children alike.
22.
The Monster at the End of This Book
An all-time great from the Sesame Street team, starring the loveable, furry old Grover. A guaranteed hit with infants of all ages.
23.
Little Blue Truck
Schertle's sound effects classic is a perfect length for kids two years and younger. This is one of the most popular board books ever, showing the gifts of friendship and teamwork.
24.
Just in Case You Ever Wonder
Any adult familiar with Lucado's books aimed at helping adults reach their potential, will find the same messages about love, comfort and protection here in this absolute classic.
25.
Opposites
A seriously hilarious book of illustrations and messages that tell reader and listener alike that there is beauty in us all being different. A must.
