KQED's Forum Forum from the Archives: What’s Your Favorite Children’s Book?
Nov 28, 2025
Boris Kachka and Emma Sarappo, senior editors at The Atlantic, dive into the creation of a list of 65 essential children's books, discussing their criteria for selection: distinctiveness and entertainment value. They explore the joys of musicality in storybooks and reflect on timeless classics like The Story of Ferdinand. The duo also shares personal stories, highlighting favorite picks and the challenges of curating such a list. Listeners share their beloved childhood reads, showcasing the deep emotional connections books forge across generations.
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What Makes A Children’s Book Essential
- The Atlantic defined "essential" as distinctive picture books that endure and aren't merely lesson-driven.
- They prioritized entertainment and subtle teaching over bluntly didactic children's books.
Surprised By A Childhood Summary
- Emma remembered being horrified when a teacher summarized Sylvester and the Magic Pebble for her.
- She found the idea of a child turned into a sad rock waiting for parents existentially upsetting.
Musical Language Delights Readers
- Musicality and repetitive language make picture books fun for adults to read aloud and for children to hear.
- Boris cites Green Eggs and Ham's limited vocabulary and rhythm as key to its lasting appeal.