Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

"From the few hundred words that tell such a beautiful story of anger, love, acceptance, and home, to the illustrations that transport us into the imagination of Max, Where the Wild Things Are remains one of my favorite books of all time."

- Caitlin Cassaro, Executive Director

The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien

“The Hobbit is one of my favorite stories because it focuses on an unlikely and reluctant hero that finds his courage and strength throughout a traditional epic Journey“

- Monica Valentin, Program Operations Manager

The Day You Begin by Jaqueline Woodson

"I remember reading this book to my cousins. It led to a candid conversation about fitting in and being proud of yourself that helped us feel closer to each other as a family"

- Amber Peterson, Director of Program Innovation

The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum

"I had the most wonderful second-grade teacher, Mrs. Hoffman. She read out loud frequently to our class and she always used different voices for each character! She read Charlotte’s Web, James and the Giant Peach, The Wind in the Willows, The Trumpet of the Swan and Where the Sidewalk Ends. So many stories, so many voices. She literally instilled in me a true love for reading out loud!"

- Gigi Verkaik, Director of Fundraising & Communications

Frog and Toad Are Friends by Arnold Lobel

"Despite being published in the 70s, the Frog and Toad series is truly timeless. These stories simultaneously teach about the power of friendship while embracing the minutiae of everyday life. Frog and Toad will help remind me, amidst the world's chaos, that the most important things in life are often the simplest during this World Read Aloud Day!"

- Deanna Gondek, LitWorld Program Associate