Put down the tabloids and pick up one of these childhood classics:
1. Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans
This classic story about a young girl in France has a message for everyone that size doesn't matter. Despite being the tiniest girl at her school, Madeline is fierce. Bemelmans later went on to write five more books about Madeline and her friends and his grandson wrote six more, all of which have lessons for readers of all ages.
2. Charlotte's Web by E.B. White
This tale about an unusual friendship between a pig and a spider teachers readers what it means to be accepting to those who are different. It also demonstrates the lengths one should be willing to go to in order to help a friend. All adults in today's society can learn from Wilbur and Charlotte.
Telling a story about the relationship between a mother and son, this book has a lesson for everyone about how love can last forever. This book is sure to remind you of your childhood. Perhaps someday you can read it to your own children.
4. Winnie the Pooh by A.A. Milne
This classic tale about the adventures of a young boy and his animal friends has been cherished for generations. Pooh, Tigger, Owl, Rabbit, Kanga, Roo, and Eeyore have lessons for everyone about being a friend when it matters most.
5. Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
A magical story about two friends and their imaginary world, this book has lessons for all ages including kindness, friendship, and overcoming loss.
The message of this book is very direct; share what you have with others. As adults, it can be difficult to do but is just as important for us as it is for the children this book was written for.
7. The Butter Battle Book by Dr. Seuss
Dr.Seuss's entire collection should really be required reading for adults, but this book in particular has a great message about conflict. For a nation as divided as ours, this book does a great job of demonstrating how conflict doesn't solve anything.
