I can admit it. I am a sucker for books that make me cry or tug at the heartstrings. Last year when I was compiling the list of our Top 10 Read-Alouds, I realized just how much I liked these kinds of sentimental books when many of them made that list as well!
You know those books that have you so choked up that it’s hard to keep reading as you try to swallow the lump in your throat? These are some of our all-time favourite sappy kids’ books.
Our Favourite Sentimental Kids’ Books:
Snuggle Puppy!
Just In Case You Ever WonderJust the Two of UsI Promise I’ll Find YouI Love You As Much…I Love You, Stinky FaceI Love You More Than RainbowsTell Me Again About the Night I Was BornI Love You Like Crazy CakesOh, the Places You’ll Go!
Snuggle Puppy by Sandra Boynton – This book had to make the list! It’s part of how our “Snuggle Puppy” got his pseudonym! This book is fun and sweet and what kid doesn’t like a book that can be read or sung and encourages hugs and kisses?!
Just in Case You Ever Wonder by Max Lucado is kind of a less creepy version of Love You Forever. It also presents a tiny introduction to the topic of Heaven. It’s a really nice book to read one on one to your child.
Just the Two of Us by Will Smith is a wonderful book for a father to read to his son. It has great illustrations and the message is heartwarming.
I Promise I’ll Find You by Heather Ward is a book I’ve been reading the kids since my oldest (now 18) was a toddler. Its message is relevant for any child but I think after we began adopting, the words took on a whole new meaning as I read them to children who were looking for safety and security and a feeling of belonging.
I Love You as Much…by Laura Krauss Melmed is just one of those books that you have to read to your baby. It’s simple and sweet and so affirming.
I Love You Stinky Face by Cyd Moore makes the kids giggle and want to be tickled as they are reminded that I love them no matter what!
I Love You More Than Rainbows by Susan Crites has become much more than a book around here. It has become a way that we talk to each other. “I love you more than Slurpees.” “I love you more than chocolate.” “I love you more than my favourite stuffy.”
Tell Me Again About the Night I Was Born by Jamie Lee Curtis and I Love You Like Crazy Cakes by Rose Lewis are just a few examples of the adoption books for kids that we seem to read again and again. I have a growing list of favourite adoption children’s books!
Oh, The Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss is a nice everyday read, but it’s especially beautiful for events like your child’s baptism or milestones in their lives such as graduation or their first job.
What are the children’s books that tug at your heart strings?
Great list. I LOVE LOVE Snuggle Puppy. My friend once said she’d like to see a video compilation of all the different ways mamas sing it to their babes. That would be too fun! 🙂
That is a video that would be fun to watch. When I sing it, I often think, “I wonder what tune it’s SUPPOSED to have”!
You have a Snuggle Puppy in your house too? My 2 year old was singing the song at lunch today. It’s one of our favorites.
Hi Sharla~ thanks for your book list! I am always looking for superior children’s lit – and I SO agree with you that Love You Forever is creepy! lol What a very strange book and I can’t wait to look at an alternative one written by Pastor Lucado. I will be checking out those on your list I haven’t read. Thanks again!