Anita Silvey -- Children's and Young Adult Book Expert

The books we read as children stay with us all of our lives. If we miss books when we are young, we'll never have a true appreciation of their content. By choosing only 100 books, Anita Silvey provides a list that all children can read, ensuring a literary heritage that will last a lifetime. In additon to giving an age range and plot, she relates the fascinating, often hilarious, story behind the story, told from an insider's point of view. The product of thirty-five years of work with children's books, 100 Best Books for Children also includes extensive lists of books to meet special needs, selected by ages. This unique book is not only useful -- it is inspiring as well.

"Whether you're a parent or teacher introducing the best books to your children, a Constant Reader checking to make sure that you've read The Best, a student of children's literature, or someone who would like to give a really helpful gift for a shower or birthday, you'll find this list of books and Mrs. Silvey's thoughtful commentary to be the ideal resource. If you thought you knew about these books, be ready for a treat with her story-behind-the-story. This book belongs in every home." Children's Literature Network

"It would be hard to find a more authoritative voice...than Anita Silvey, who has spent 35 years publishing and evaluating children's books....Divided into age groups, Silvey lists classics old and new. Extensive background information and interesting anecdotes provide further context for the books." Publishers Weekly.

"What a wonderfully balanced, truly engaging selection -- from standards for young children like Goodnight Moon and The Very Hungry Caterpillar to more off-beat or unusual selections for older kids. You find terrific chapter books and engrossing novels for older readers. And then there are those powerful reading experiences like Lois Lowry's The Giver and possibly the best wizard book of all, Ursula Le Guin's A Wizard of Earthsea." John Cech on "Recess!"

"Librarians and teachers will find plenty of fascinating tidbits to share with their students. The text reads more like a narrative than a reference source, and children's literature enthusiasts will find it an enjoyable read in and of itself." Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books


From the Introduction to 100 Best Books for Children :

"All of the hundred books in this volume are my old friends. In the essays, I am trying to convey my enthusiasm for these friends. In doing so, it is my hope that readers will grow to love these books as much as I do. I also hope that this guide inspires adults to take these magnificent books and pass them on to children. 'Only the rarest kind of best in anything can be good enough for the young,' said the English poet Walter de la Mare. This single volume discusses the creme de la creme of children's books -- the books that can truly make a difference in the life of a child."