Many of my own fondest childhood memories revolve around reading. Reading some of my treasured childhood books brings me back to that simple magical time. Here are five of my favorites that I couldn’t wait to share with my children, small nieces and nephews.

This is THE classic board book and has been loved by generations. If you are a new mom-to-be, you likely will get a copy of this as a gift. Pat the Bunny is an interactive book that encourages toddlers to explore the world with actions like patting soft fur, smelling flowers and looking into a mirror. The books have “fur” or a “shiny” material so toddlers can put their tiny fingers on and experience the textures for themselves.

The story follows a very young boy named Peter, who spends his day playing. He discovers the pleasures of touching, feeling and watching newly falling snow. He is African-American, but race is never mentioned. The book won a Caldecott Medal for the most distinguished picture book for children in 1963. The illustrations are created with beautiful block-like colors almost like a stained glass window.

This is a rhythm book, “Dum ditty dum ditty dum.” Centered on a bunch of wild and crazy monkeys playing drums, this book introduces children to rhythm and the pleasure of rhyme. You might even find yourself singing the words in the shower, as it is that catchy.

A caterpillar eats his way through various food stuffs, before spinning a cacoon and then emerges as a glorious and beautiful butterfly. The book has sold 30 million copies worldwide and it is no wonder. Eric Carle also did the illustrations, which are collage-like, colorful and very distinctive.

Dogs, dogs and more dogs are the heroes of this book. These dogs work, play, swim and have parties. From big dogs and little dogs to red, green, and blue dogs, dogs going up and dogs going down, these dogs are on the move. And then there is the dog who keeps asking the “Do you like my hat?” which becomes more and more elaborate as the story goes on.

This is the story of a baby bird who happens to peck out of his shell while his mother has gone off to find food. He is determined to find her. He searches and searches asking a kitten, a hen, a dog, and a cow if they are his mother. They each say “No.” Then he asks an old car and a boat and a plane and finally a steam shovel. Of course, eventually he and his bird mother are reunited. It is a sweet story and one I loved as a child and loved even more when I read it to my son.

Enjoy and Happy Reading!