Best Children's Books of 2008

2008 brought with it many interesting, fun, and inspiring children's books. Here are some of what I feel are the best books for children that were published in 2008. From the books on this list, a child can learn about inspiration, hope, love, giving, being happy, how to treat others, and many more important life lessons. In my opinion, these books should be shared together in a Family Reading Circle.

Dewey: A Small Town Library Cat Who Touched The World by Vicki Myron with Bret Witter
This is a heartwarming story about a little kitten who was found in the night drop box in a library. The author, Vicki Myron, is the librarian who found him. He was named Dewey Readmore Books. The kitten grew into a cat that touched the hearts and lives of people in the small town, as well as around the world. Vicki and the town all needed this inspiration, as things were tough at that time. Vicki had also had a rough life. The cat stayed in the library his entire life and in his own way, helped many people until his passing in 2006. Read more about how he changed people's lives in the book. This book made my best children's book list of 2008 because it holds many lessons for children, such as hope, courage, and inspiration. To learn more, visit DeweyReadMoreBooks.com.

Just What Mama Needs by Sharlee Glenn
Just What Mama Needs is a cute story about a little puppy named Abby. She always dresses the way she thinks is needed in order to satisfy her mother. This is a day by day story. In the end, Abby learns that all her mother really wants and needs is her. I chose this children's book as one of the best books for children in 2008 because it helps children learn self-esteem. It also teaches them that looks aren't as important as what's inside. This book can be found at Amazon.com.

Moxy Maxwell Does not Love Writing Thank-You Notes by Peggy Gifford
In order to attend a Hollywood event with her father, Moxy Maxwell must write thank-you notes for each one of her Christmas presents. She does not like writing thank-you notes, even though she appreciates the gifts. But, she is writing the notes anyway because she has not seen her father in three years and she really misses him. Despite her dedication to the note-writing, something else ends up getting in the way of her trip. Something she does not want to come to terms with. This children's book is on my list of best books for children in 2008 because it teaches children to always look at the bright side of things, even in hard times. It also teaches about manners and appreciation. This book can be found on Amazon.com.

Nobunny's Perfect by Anna Dewdney
In this book, children will read about all the "mistakes" being made by the bunnies while learning about sharing and caring. It's all about being your personal best, rather than trying to be perfect (whatever that is). I chose this children's book for my list of best books for children in 2008 because it lets children know that it's ok to be yourself. There are also other lessons to learn, such as sharing, caring, and respect. This book can be found on Amazon.com.

Priscilla and the Hollyhocks by Anne Broyles
Inspired by a true story, this book is one that I feel all children should get the chance to read. It's about a little girl named Priscilla who was a slave. Her mother was sold to another master when she was only four years old. She remembers her mother by visiting the hollyhocks that she planted near a cow pond. Then at the age of ten, she gets sold to another master - a Cherokee family. During her slavery time, she plants hollyhocks all over to keep her mind on hope. When she is forced to march the Trail of Tears, she finally finds her way to freedom. I chose this book because it lets children know that even in the worst of situations, the best can still eventually come. I feel it is a story of courage, inspiration, and hope. This book can be found on Amazon.com.

Sources:

Associated Content, "Family Time How-To: Reading Circle" by Momie Tullottes

Dewey Read More Books, "The Book"

Amazon.com, "Just What Mama Needs"

Amazon.com, "Moxy Maxwell Does Not Love Writing Thank-You Notes"

Amazon.com, "Nobunny's Perfect"

Amazon.com, "Priscilla and the Hollyhocks"