My Top 5 Favourite Children’s Books (And Why I Loved Them as a Kid!)

When I was little, these books weren’t just stories—they were whole worlds I could step into. Some were full of colour and adventure, while others made me see things in new ways. Here are five books that left a big impression on me and why I still love them today.

Animalia – Graeme Base

A book that felt like a treasure hunt! I could stare at the illustrations for hours, trying to find all the hidden details. Every page was packed with surprises, and I loved how you had to find young Graeme on each page. Best page? Letter A – I was so impressed with how Graeme Base illustrated the alligator’s tongue so realistically! 

The Color Kittens – Margaret Wise Brown

This was my favourite Classic Golden Book. Pure magic—kittens mixing colours and making a mess? Yes, please! It was my first introduction to the wonder of colours and how they blend, and it sparked my love for painting and creativity.

There’s a Sea in My Bedroom – Margaret Wild

I remember reading this and feeling completely transported. It captured the feeling of being afraid but also the wonder of imagination. I loved how the ocean seemed to spill into the real world, making even an ordinary bedroom feel magical. And Jane Tanner’s glorious illustrations inspired my pencil illustration style.

Window – Jeannie Baker

No words, just pictures—yet it told such a powerful story! I loved flipping through the pages and seeing how the world outside the window changed over time. It made me think about nature, cities, and how things grow and evolve.

A Fish Out of Water – Helen Palmer

This book made me laugh—and maybe also made me a little nervous about overfeeding fish! I loved the idea of a tiny pet turning into something HUGE, and it taught me that sometimes, rules exist for a reason (even if they don’t always make sense at first). And interestingly, Helen Palmer was Dr. Suess’ wife!