Bringing loads of Valentine’s sugar into a house full of kids is a dangerous combination. And I am ten times worse than my kids. I love the idea of giving books instead. In fact, I have started stocking my gift shelf with high-quality books for a range of ages. It honestly makes giving unexpected gifts a joy instead of a hassle.
On this holiday of love, consider giving books you love to the people you love. Elizabeth, an Usborne book consultant, is back with a guest post, featuring some great book suggestions for all ages!
Ages 3-5
There’s a Mouse About the House by Richard Fowler
My three year old loves this book so much he often sleeps with it. The story line isn’t all that intriguing, but he gets great joy out of moving the mouse through the house and I am happy to have a wiggly boy enjoying a book.
Cuddle Bear Book and Plush Toy
Everyone needs a hug sometimes. I love that this teddy brings hugs to everyone, regardless of who they are. A true tale of pint-sized love.
Ages 5-8
Sticker Dolly Dressing Princesses
Little girls love Sticker Dolly. Seriously. I have had plenty of them buy these books with their allowance money and leave with shimmering eyes of anticipation. I don’t quite get it, but then again I’m a mom to three boys.
Even the boys like the sticker books, although I’d probably lean towards giving them to the five and six-year-olds. Too much older and they become too cool for stickers. Too much younger and their fingers may not be able to pull the stickers off correctly.
The Boxcar Children (Amazon)
I am currently reading this series to my 5-year-old. The four orphans have enough adventure for him to stay engaged, and they consistently surprise me with their resourcefulness, gratitude, and respect. Reading this series made me realize that I have seen too many teenage sitcoms centered on disrespectful and unruly kids. We both really enjoy these refreshing characters.
Hey Jack! by Sally Rippin
This early reader series is full of down-to-earth, real-life, fun and funny stories that boys can relate to. This is perfect for newly independent readers. Buy 1 or the whole set. They can be read in any order.
Ages 8+
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
This is a beautifully illustrated edition of a timeless classic. Reader Donna commented, “The Wind and the Willows enchanted me; it started me on the path to loving books!”
The Complete Anne of Green Gables, Boxed Set (Amazon)
Reader Amanda wrote, “My grandma introduced me to [Anne of Green Gables] when I was young, and I have reread them over and over throughout my life.”
The Little House Collection (Amazon)
A favorite series of many! This particular boxed collection contains lovely colored illustrations.
Reader Beth wrote, “My mom would sit between my sister and I and read [The Little House series] each night. We went through the series twice and it was my favorite part of the evening. My mom loved them so much she would read well past “lights out time” on many occasions! It was just great girl time…I always imagined myself as Laura…I can’t wait to continue the tradition with my soon to come babies.”
Ages 12+
Phoenix Files Complete Collection by Chris Morphew
Don’t tell anyone, but I really enjoyed this teenagers-saving-the-whole-world series. No, I don’t really believe that in times of political crisis we should follow the lead of kids not old enough to drive, but that won’t stop me from enjoying the story. A fun page-turner that is sure to keep teens reading.
History of Valentine’s Day
Saint Valentine (ages 4-7) by Robert Sabuda (Amazon)
Looking for a bit of history to add to your holiday festivities? An Amazon reviewer writes, “While this story is about a saint of the Christian faith, the religious aspect of the story is toned down and not preachy. While Valentine’s faith, and his role as a priest, are woven into the story, the text emphasizes his role as a physician and his relationship with the blind daughter of a Roman jailer who seeks healing.” For less than $7, I’ll be adding this one to my collection.
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What are some of your favorite books to give as gifts?
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I just had an Us borne book party, and use their books a lot. We have The Very First Valentine movie, and enjoy watching it. You have some great picks, and I love Anne of Greene Gables
I’m glad to hear you took advantage of our January hostess rewards. They were generous. I’ll have to look up that movie. I enjoy learning the roots of our traditions. I was sorry to see that “the legend of saint valentine” had gone out of print, although you can still find it used on Amazon.