November 14 is celebrated as Children’s Day in India to mark the birth anniversary of the country’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who was fondly known as Chacha Nehru for his affection for children. On this occasion, we present seven children’s books featuring magical adventures and stories of belonging and self-discovery that have continued to find readers across generations. They introduce readers to unforgettable characters, take them to extraordinary places and offer lessons about friendship, courage, kindness and growing up.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll (1865)
A curious young girl follows a white rabbit down a rabbit hole and finds herself in a wonderfully strange world. From the eccentric Mad Hatter to the mysterious Cheshire Cat, Alice encounters characters and situations that constantly challenge her understanding of reality. Lewis Carroll’s imaginative tale celebrates curiosity, absurdity and the freedom of looking at the world differently.
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943)
A young prince travels from one planet to another, meeting unusual inhabitants before arriving on Earth. Along the way, he reflects on friendship, love, loneliness and the responsibilities that come with caring for someone. Through its deceptively simple storytelling, The Little Prince invites readers to look beyond appearances and recognise the importance of human connections.
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The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain (1876)
Set along the Mississippi River, this novel follows Tom Sawyer, a mischievous boy whose days are filled with adventures, pranks and unexpected discoveries. Alongside his friend Huckleberry Finn, Tom explores caves, gets caught up in mysteries and finds himself in situations that test his courage. Mark Twain’s story captures the excitement, mischief and restless imagination of childhood.
Heidi by Johanna Spyri (1880)
Set in the Swiss Alps, Heidi tells the story of a young orphan who goes to live with her grandfather in the mountains. Surrounded by nature, fresh air and new friendships, she gradually brings warmth into the lives of those around her. The novel explores kindness, compassion, belonging and the healing power of nature, making it a beloved story for readers of different ages.
Anne of Green Gables by LM Montgomery (1908)
Anne Shirley is an imaginative and talkative orphan who is mistakenly sent to live with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert on Prince Edward Island. Her vivid imagination, spirited personality and determination gradually transform the lives of those around her. Through Anne’s experiences, the novel explores friendship, family, individuality and the experience of finding a place where one truly belongs.
Matilda by Roald Dahl (1988)
Matilda is an exceptionally intelligent young girl with a deep love for books, but she grows up in a family that fails to appreciate her abilities. At school, she encounters the intimidating Miss Trunchbull, while finding support and affection in her teacher, Miss Honey. With humour, imagination and a touch of magic, Roald Dahl’s novel celebrates curiosity, courage and the power of education.
The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling (1894)
Set in the Indian jungle, The Jungle Book follows Mowgli, a young boy raised by wolves after being separated from his family. Guided by Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther, he learns the ways of the jungle while facing the threat of Shere Khan. Through Mowgli’s adventures, Rudyard Kipling explores courage, loyalty, survival and the question of where one belongs.
These books have endured because they offer more than memorable adventures. They allow young readers to explore unfamiliar worlds, understand different perspectives and recognise emotions that are often difficult to put into words. Whether discovered for the first time or revisited years later, these stories continue to remind us of the imagination and wonder that make childhood so special.
Compiled by Namasvi
