Age 04-08. 5 Stars. The House at Pooh Corner continues the world introduced Winnie-the-Pooh… The writing quality and character development are just as wonderful in as in Winnie-the-Pooh — this book has none of the sequel’s dullness.

Age 04-08. 5 Stars. Winnie-the-Pooh has been beloved by several generations because of the wonderful way Milne captures the imaginative play of children…. Milne’s excellent writing, wonderful use of language, subtle and silly sense of humor, and the unforgettable eccentricities of his characters make the world of Pooh a delightful place. Like other classic children’s stories, Winnie-the-Pooh may not appeal to every reader, but every child ought to have a chance to experience it.

Age 04-08. 4 Stars. Pinkney’s adaptation uses modern language, retaining almost none of Kipling’s masterful language, but telling the story very well. What really makes this book are his lavish, exuberant watercolor paintings which draw the reader in and dramatize the story in a very vivid way.

Age 04-08. This is an outstanding collection of eight of James Herriot’s true stories about his life as a veterinarian in 1940’s Yorkshire, adapted for children and beautifully illustrated.

Age 04-08. This story is masterfully written, in very short chapters that each pack a punch and end with a cliffhanger. The plot points are simple enough that young children will be able to follow them, but clever enough that adults will enjoy the author’s absurd sense of humor. It’s perfect for children transitioning out of picture books. Published in 1947, it reflects mainly wholesome values of kindness, courage, and generosity, with a naivete that will appeal to children who enjoy fantasies.

Age 05-10. This memorable story provides an example of genuine, loving friendship, which blooms among the hard realities of farm life… it is these contrasts that have made this story such an enduring classic — the reality of death and pain make joy and love all the sweeter where they exist.

Age 16-18. 5 Stars. All Things Bright and Beautiful continues the memoirs of James Herriot, newly married to Helen, as he continues his veterinary practice in Yorkshire. This book is simply more of the same witty, incisive commentary on animal ways and human nature, and how they came together in his unique professional life. Utterly enjoyable.

Age 16-20. 5 Stars. All Creatures Great and Small opens an unforgettable series of personal memoirs by a country veterinarian in 1940’s Yorkshire… These are written in engaging chapters that cover brief vignettes, which are written with a warm, wry humor that vividly, affectionately, and sometimes mercilessly captures human nature in the context of this cultural scene. Many descriptions are laugh-out-loud hilarious, and will be spontaneously read aloud to the nearest listener. But Herriot is no cynic — his writing pokes fun at himself at least as often as others, and his self-deprecating wit provides an appeal that is near irresistible.

Age 00-04. 4 Stars. Kate Greenaway’s Mother Goose book, originally published in 1881, includes most of the best-loved nursery rhymes illustrated in beautiful watercolor paintings. Their mood is gently romantic, rather than playful like DePaola’s and Opie’s Mother Goose collections. For parents who want to introduce a little “real” art to their young children, this could be a very nice fit.

Age 00-04. 4 Stars. This story really captures a child’s wonder at experiencing snow for the first time. The collage-type art is interesting and unusual, and it makes a very nice addition to your winter reading basket. Probably best for the 2-4 age range, although older children are also able to appreciate it.