As adults and educators, we all know about the power and magic of reading. Books and the knowledge they bring open so many doors to enlightenment, intelligence, opportunity, and simple joy.

We know this. But how can we convey the beauty and power of literacy to students who may see trashy talk shows, racy role models, and violent video games as good entertainment? Well, the answer again lies in literature.

Below, you'll find a list of children's books that explore and celebrate the joys of reading. Young readers will find themselves caught up in these amazing stories that carry a powerful and important message: Reading is Essential to a Fulfilling Life.

Pull one of these books off the shelf when you need to spark a renewed love for books in your classroom. Special thanks to Cindy Marten, a phenomenal reading specialist, for her work in pulling together this list.

Books That Celebrate Reading

• Richard Wright and the Library Card by William Miller
• More Than Anything Else by Marie Bradby
• I Can Read With My Eyes Shut by Dr. Seuss
• The Wednesday Surprise by Eve Bunting
• Tomas and the Library Lady by Pat Mora
• Read for Me Mama by Vashanti Rahaman
• Oh How I Wished I Could Read by John Gile
• Jeremiah Learns to Read by Jo Ellen Bogart
• The Girl Who Hated Books by Manjusha Pawagi
• Wolf! by Becky Bloom
• Word Wizard by Cathryn Falwell
• BOOK by George Ella Lyon
• The Old Woman Who Loved to Read by John Winch
• Thank You Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco
• The Ink Drinker by Eric Sanvoisin
• A Weave of Words by Robert San Souci
• Old People, Frogs and Albert by Nancy Hope Wilson
• Library Lil by Suzanne Williams
• Stella Louella's Runaway Book by Lisa Campbell Ernst