Top 10 Hidden Gems in Children’s Literature
The world of children’s literature is incredibly vast and expansive, making it easy to lose or overlook some of the best works in the shuffle. From big publishers to small presses, there’s always something new on the way, and it can be easy to miss the needle haystack, especially as the number of writers continues to grow. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a list here of our favorite “hidden gems” in children’s literature. These special picks highlight a diversity of thought and writing that helps to provide a new lens of engagement whether you’re searching as a parent, educator, or reader yourself!
In an exciting, wordless, expedition of exploration and intrigue, a lonely girl uses a red marker to draw her way into incredible new worlds. However, there’s still danger in this fantastical world, and after her capture by a villainous emperor, she’ll have to discover unwavering courage to escape his clutches.
2. Sidewalk Flowers by JoArno Lawson and Sydney Smith
Follow a little girl as she attempts to beautify her urban environment, while her dad fails to pay attention to her. This delicate, wordless book demonstrates the power of a natural gift, transforming both the giver and receiver in the process.
3. Lila Lou’s Little Library by Nikki Bergstresser and Sejung Kim
This inspiring story follows a young girl and her indomitable love for reading. However, when Lila finds that she has too many books Lila has to find a creative solution to save her precious reading materials, teaching the value of sharing and community through creativity and activism, complete with instructions to create your own at-home library!
Explore the mysteries of the ocean with a young boy who finds himself surrounded by all sorts of flotsam on the beach. His greatest discovery, though, is an underwater camera that contains gorgeous portraits of sea life. This often-overlooked book from a Caldecott-winning author contains an incredibly imaginative exportation of the deep, through accessible, everyday means! Love these books and want to share the love? This Family Book Study Night from CPR, can help you out!
This lyrical exploration of self-acceptance stands out with its enticing illustrations of a girl exploring the capacity of her heart and its guidance. Luyken’s work here demonstrates the power of trusting yourself, demonstrating that love and self-acceptance are the ultimate guide.
In this investigative book, a child imagines the mysteries that are held by the river she sees every day from her bedroom window. Find out how far you can go, as you move through cities, forests, and more in this lush, immersive book!
7. The Night Gardener by Terry and Eric Fan
Mysterious topiaries keep popping up all over WIlliam’s town, thanks to a night gardener who disappears as soon as he’s arrived, in this enchantingly quiet book about the changing power of art and nature. With breathtaking illustrations and sparse text, it’s the perfect book to explore how creativity can inspire beautiful change.
Help teach young readers about overcoming the overwhelming power of stress, in this fable-style novel, following a young girl who awakens to find dark leaves falling from her ceiling. After investigating the alienating world around her and the emotions it brings, she discovers that a seedling has begun to grow, demonstrating the power of light in the dark.
9. The Storm Whale by Benji Davies
A lonely boy attempts to find someone who will listen to him, in this inspiring novel about the importance of supporting wildlife and being a good listener. The boy works together with his father to save a whale that washed ashore and discovers how his family can offer support.
10. The Night World by Mordicai Gerstein
This striking book follows a young boy and his cat companion, as they explore the world while everyone else is sleeping. With illustrations that transition from black and white to color as the sun rises, and an incredible narrative of discovery, it’s the perfect book for inspiring early adventurers.
Each of these “hidden gem” books demonstrates the importance of growing and learning, inspiring positive change through investigations and action. So, while they may not be the most recognized books right now, each of these stories demonstrates they have something valuable to say and are a worthy inclusion to your library!
Did these books excite you? Here’s an ultimate character book list for more recommendations on books.
Logan May is a senior at Bowling Green State University, where he’s studying English while double minoring in marketing and writing. In his free time, he can be found reading or performing on stage, promoting his passions on and off the page.
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