The Greatest American, German "Children's books, Fiction" Books Since 2000

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Children's books

Children's books are a category of literature that is specifically written and designed for children. These books are typically aimed at readers between the ages of 0-12 and cover a wide range of topics, from picture books for toddlers to chapter books for older children. Children's books often feature colorful illustrations, simple language, and engaging stories that are meant to entertain, educate, and inspire young readers. They can cover a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and more, and are an essential part of a child's early education and development.

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  1. 1. Inkheart by Cornelia Funke

    The book revolves around a young girl named Meggie and her father Mo, who possesses a unique ability to bring characters from books to life by reading aloud. This gift, however, comes with a price, as they are entangled in a dangerous adventure when a villain from a fantasy book called "Inkheart" is accidentally summoned into the real world. As they struggle to fix the chaos caused by this crossover, they must navigate a treacherous world of magic and betrayal, while attempting to thwart the villain's sinister plans and protect the balance between reality and the fantastical realms of literature.

    The 3185th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

    The book is a young adult novel that explores the themes of nonconformity and self-expression through the story of an eccentric and free-spirited girl who calls herself Stargirl. She arrives at Mica High School in Arizona and immediately stands out for her unique behavior and homemade clothes. Her presence challenges the status quo and prompts varying reactions from the other students, ranging from admiration to hostility. As the protagonist captures the attention of the narrator, a boy named Leo, he finds himself drawn to her authenticity and spirit, but also struggles with his desire for social acceptance. The story delves into the impact of individuality on peer relationships and the courage it takes to be true to oneself in the face of conformity.

    The 3366th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang

    "American Born Chinese" by Gene Luen Yang is a graphic novel that weaves together three distinct storylines to explore themes of identity, cultural assimilation, and self-acceptance. The book follows the lives of Jin Wang, a Chinese-American boy struggling to fit in at school, the Monkey King, a mythical character striving for acceptance among his peers, and Danny, a white American teenager dealing with his Chinese cousin's visit. Through these interconnected narratives, the book delves into the complexities of being an immigrant and the challenges of navigating multiple cultural identities in America.

    The 4069th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. The Miraculous Journey Of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo

    In this heartwarming tale, a china rabbit named Edward Tulane embarks on a miraculous journey of self-discovery. From being lost at sea to finding himself in the hands of various owners, Edward learns the true meaning of love, loss, and the importance of opening one's heart to others. Through his encounters with different people, Edward's once cold and self-centered nature gradually transforms, as he learns to value the connections he forms and the impact he can have on the lives of those around him.

    The 5018th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

    The book is a humorous portrayal of the protagonist's daily life as he navigates the trials and tribulations of middle school. Through his diary entries, the reader gets a glimpse into his struggles with family, friends, and school. With a unique blend of text and cartoons, the book provides an engaging and relatable depiction of the protagonist's attempts to gain popularity and survive the school year, despite his many embarrassing incidents and frequent misadventures.

    The 5466th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Julián Is A Mermaid by Jessica Love

    In this heartwarming and beautifully illustrated picture book, a young boy named Julián is captivated by the enchanting world of mermaids. After spotting a group of glamorous women dressed as mermaids on the subway, Julián dreams of becoming one himself. With his abuela's loving support, he embraces his true identity and expresses his creativity by transforming into a stunning mermaid. This empowering story celebrates self-acceptance, love, and the power of imagination.

    The 6496th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney

    This wordless picture book tells the classic Aesop's fable of a tiny mouse and a mighty lion. When the mouse accidentally disturbs the lion, the lion spares the mouse's life. Later, when the lion is caught in a hunter's trap, the grateful mouse gnaws through the ropes to free him. The story is a beautiful depiction of kindness and reciprocity, showing how even the smallest creature can help someone much bigger and stronger.

    The 6583rd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. Duck, Death And The Tulip by Wolf Erlbruch

    "Duck, Death And The Tulip" is a poignant and thought-provoking illustrated book that explores the themes of life, death, and friendship. The story follows a duck who unexpectedly befriends Death, and together they embark on a journey of contemplation and acceptance. Through their conversations and experiences, the book delicately tackles the existential questions surrounding mortality, while offering a tender and comforting perspective on the inevitability of death.

    The 6874th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. Last Stop On Market Street by Matt de la Peña

    "Last Stop On Market Street" is a heartwarming children's book that tells the story of a young boy named CJ and his grandmother as they embark on their weekly bus ride across town. Along the way, CJ learns valuable life lessons about gratitude, empathy, and the beauty in the world around him, ultimately realizing that the journey itself is just as important as the destination. With its vibrant illustrations and poignant narrative, this book celebrates the power of perspective and the joy of finding beauty in unexpected places.

    The 7009th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Out Of My Mind by Sharon M Draper

    "Out of My Mind" is a captivating and heart-wrenching story that follows the life of Melody, a brilliant and determined girl with cerebral palsy. Trapped in a body that does not cooperate with her brilliant mind, Melody struggles to communicate and is often overlooked by those around her. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she gains access to a communication device that allows her to finally express herself. Through perseverance and the support of her family and friends, Melody embarks on a journey to prove that she is more than her disability and has the ability to achieve greatness.

    The 7858th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. The Tale Of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo

    This enchanting narrative follows the adventures of Despereaux Tilling, a small mouse with oversized ears, born in a castle and in love with music, stories, and a princess named Pea. Unlike other mice, Despereaux is not timid; he seeks out adventures that break the strict rules of the mouse world, leading to his banishment to the dungeon—a place crawling with rats and devoid of light. His journey intertwines with that of a servant girl who wishes for a different life and a devious rat who desires the world above. Together, their stories weave a tale of bravery, forgiveness, and the importance of following one's heart, challenging the traditional roles and expectations placed upon them by society and their own kinds.

    The 8501st Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. The One And Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

    This children's novel centers around Ivan, a captive gorilla who lives in a shopping mall, spending his days on display for the public and his nights conversing with his animal friends, including an elderly elephant named Stella and a stray dog named Bob. Ivan's routine existence is upended with the arrival of Ruby, a young elephant taken from the wild, prompting him to see his environment through new eyes. Inspired by Ruby's plight and Stella's passing wish, Ivan taps into his long-dormant creativity and empathy to hatch a plan to give Ruby a better life, leading to a poignant journey of friendship, art, and the quest for a place to call home.

    The 8517th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Black Inventors For Children by Charles Jones

    This book offers a compelling introduction to the world of African American inventors and their significant contributions to science, technology, and everyday life. It highlights the stories of brilliant minds who, despite facing racial barriers, developed groundbreaking inventions that have had lasting impacts. Aimed at young readers, the book not only educates about these important figures but also inspires creativity and perseverance by showcasing how these inventors overcame challenges to improve the world. Through engaging narratives and illustrations, children are encouraged to appreciate the diversity of innovation and the power of determination.

    The 8708th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. The Higher Power Of Lucky by Susan Patron

    This children's novel follows the story of ten-year-old Lucky Trimble as she navigates life in the small desert community of Hard Pan, California, population 43. After the death of her mother, Lucky lives with her guardian, Brigitte, who has come from France to care for her. Yearning for stability and a true home, Lucky fears that Brigitte will return to France and leave her behind. Throughout the story, Lucky eavesdrops on the town's residents, searching for the "higher power" that she hears mentioned in the 12-step program meetings held at the Found Object Wind Chime Museum and Visitor Center where she works. Her journey is one of self-discovery, friendship, and finding her own "higher power," culminating in an act of bravery that helps her understand where she belongs and what family truly means.

    The 8980th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Sea Of Monsters by Rick Riordan

    In this thrilling sequel set in a modern world where Greek mythology is reality, a young demigod embarks on a perilous quest to save his endangered summer camp, Camp Half-Blood. The magical borders protecting the camp are failing, and to prevent its destruction, our hero and his friends must journey into the treacherous Sea of Monsters to find the mythical Golden Fleece, the only thing powerful enough to heal the land. Along the way, they face numerous mythological foes and discover startling truths about their own identities and destinies. This action-packed adventure not only tests their bravery and friendships but also sets the stage for further challenges in the unfolding saga of their extraordinary lives.

    The 8981st Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 16. Elijah Of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis

    This novel is set in the mid-19th century in Buxton, Canada, a real-life community established for escaped slaves. It follows the story of Elijah, the first child born into freedom in Buxton. Known for being fragile and skittish, Elijah embarks on a journey that transforms him as he encounters the realities of slavery firsthand. Through his eyes, readers experience the challenges and triumphs of a community of escaped slaves, and Elijah's growth into bravery and understanding. The narrative combines humor, historical detail, and emotional depth to explore themes of freedom, courage, and the impact of the past on the present.

    The 9068th Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 17. When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

    This novel unfolds in 1970s New York, where a young girl begins receiving mysterious notes that predict the future and seem to hint at a connection to her favorite book about time travel. As she navigates her daily life, dealing with the complexities of friendship, family, and growing up, she must also unravel the mystery of the notes. The story masterfully blends elements of science fiction with the poignant coming-of-age narrative, leading to a surprising and deeply satisfying conclusion that ties together the seemingly disparate elements of her life in an unexpected way.

    The 9229th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 18. Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney

    In this humorous installment of a popular children's series, the protagonist, a middle-school boy, navigates the challenges of adolescence with a mix of awkwardness and misguided attempts at self-improvement. His father, concerned about his son's lazy habits, decides it's time for tough love, pushing him towards sports and other activities to toughen him up. The boy, however, has other plans, mainly involving his crush and finding ways to avoid his dad's new regime. Through a series of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings, he learns valuable lessons about responsibility, friendship, and the importance of being true to oneself.

    The 9228th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 19. Earth Heroes by Bruce Malnor, Carol Malnor

    "Earth Heroes" is a collection of inspiring stories that highlight the lives and achievements of twenty individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental conservation. Each chapter delves into the biography of a different environmentalist, exploring their motivations, the challenges they faced, and the impact of their work on preserving the natural world. From scientists and activists to policymakers, the book showcases a diverse range of heroes who have each played a pivotal role in advocating for sustainable practices and protecting Earth's ecosystems for future generations.

    The 9465th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 20. Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul by Jeff Kinney

    In this humorous and engaging installment of a popular children's series, the story follows a young boy and his family as they embark on a road trip that is supposed to be fun and memorable. However, the journey quickly turns into a series of misadventures and disasters, including unexpected detours, vehicle mishaps, and bizarre encounters with other travelers. Through a blend of text and comic illustrations, the narrative humorously explores themes of family dynamics, the chaos of travel, and the trials and tribulations of growing up. Despite the challenges, the protagonist navigates through the chaos with a mix of wit, resilience, and a bit of luck, making it a relatable and entertaining read for young readers.

    The 9631st Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 21. Wonder by R.J. Palacio

    The book is a heartwarming and thought-provoking story about a young boy with a facial difference who, after being homeschooled for years, enters fifth grade at a mainstream school. The narrative explores his journey of facing the challenges of being different, dealing with bullying and the struggle to be accepted by his peers. It's a tale of empathy, resilience, and the importance of kindness, told through multiple perspectives that include the boy's own viewpoint as well as those of his classmates, family members, and others in his community. The story encourages readers to look beyond appearances and find the wonder in everyone's uniqueness.

    The 9751st Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 22. Journey by Aaron Becker

    "Journey" is a captivating wordless picture book that takes readers on an extraordinary adventure. It follows a young girl who uses a magical red crayon to escape her mundane reality and enter a breathtaking world filled with wonder and danger. Through stunning illustrations, the book explores themes of imagination, friendship, and the power of creativity, as the girl embarks on a quest to save a captured bird and ultimately find her way back home.

    The 9990th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 23. Spirit Hunters by Ellen Oh

    "Spirit Hunters" is a gripping tale of a young girl who moves into a new house with her family, only to discover that it harbors dark secrets and restless spirits. As eerie events unfold and her younger brother's behavior becomes increasingly strange, she must confront the chilling truth about the supernatural forces at play. With the help of her grandmother and her own burgeoning abilities as a spirit hunter, she embarks on a perilous journey to save her brother and put the troubled spirits to rest, uncovering her family's hidden past and her own connection to the spirit world in the process.

    The 9996th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 24. The Book With No Pictures by B. J. Novak

    "The Book With No Pictures" is a creative and interactive children's book that breaks the traditional mold of storytelling by relying solely on words to captivate young readers. With its humorous and imaginative approach, the book encourages laughter and engagement as it explores the power of words and the joy of reading.

    The 10033rd Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 25. The Great Good Thing by Roderick Townley

    "The Great Good Thing" is a fantasy novel that follows the story of Princess Sylvie, a character in a book who becomes self-aware and realizes that she and her fellow characters exist only within the confines of their storybook. As Sylvie becomes conscious of the world beyond the pages, she leads her fellow characters in an adventurous quest to ensure their survival. They must think creatively and act courageously as they interact with the Reader and navigate the challenges of their existence, ultimately seeking a permanent escape from the threat of oblivion that comes with being forgotten.

    The 10091st Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download