Classic kids books with strong female characters – age 3-5

Nothing frightens Madeline—not tigers, not mice, not even getting sick. To Madeline, a trip to the hospital is a grand adventure. Originally published in 1939, Madeline lives on today – along with Caldecott Medal winner Madeline’s Rescue - as a seminal picture book in children’s literature.

The countless lupines that bloom along the coast of Maine are the legacy of the real Miss Rumphius, the Lupine Lady, who scattered lupine seeds everywhere she went. Barbara Cooney’s story of Alice Rumphius, resolved that when she grew up she would go to faraway places, live by the sea in her old age, and do something to make the world more beautiful. She does all those things – the last being the most difficult of all.

Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland has continuously delighted readers, young and old, for more than a century. This classic tale, interpreted by many outstanding artists over the years, is a remarkable story of one little girl who embarks on possibly one of the most amazing adventures in literary history.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is Robert Sabuda’s most amazing, and stunning pop-up creation ever. The text is faithful to Lewis Carroll’s original story, and special effects like a Victorian peep show, multifaceted foil, and tactile elements make this a pop-up to read and admire again and again and again.

Grandma Poss uses her best bush magic to make Hush invisible. But when Hush longs to be able to see herself again, the two possums must make their way across Australia to find the magic food that will make Hush visible once more. Another treat from Mem Fox that is sure to be treasured. The whimsical illustrations are a wonderful complement.

Mrs. Mallard was sure that the pond in the Boston Public Gardens would be a perfect place for her and her eight ducklings to live. The problem was how to get them there through the busy streets of Boston. But with a little help from the Boston police, Mrs. Mallard and Jack, Kack, Lack, Nack, Ouack, Pack, and Quack arive safely at their new home.

This brilliantly illustrated, amusingly observed tale of Mallards on the move has won the hearts of generations of readers. Awarded the Caldecott Medal for the most distinguished American picture book for children in 1941, it has since become a favorite of millions.

“Once upon a time there was a Little House way out in the country. She was a pretty Little House and she was strong and well built.” Virginia Lee Burton won the Caldecott Medal in 1943 for her memorable picture book The Little House - a poignant story of a cute country cottage that becomes engulfed by the city that grows up around it. Young readers will be drawn in by the whimsical, detailed drawings and the happy ending. A classic!