5 Beloved Children’s Books from the 70s That Still Spark Joy
Children’s books from the past have a special charm.
They transport you to different worlds and fill your imagination with fantastic stories.
The 70s were a time of wonderful tales that have stood the test of time.
Why do these books still capture the hearts of readers? They remind you of the simple joys of childhood and the power of imagination.
This article explores five beloved children’s books from the 70s that continue to delight both young and old.
1) The Very Hungry Caterpillar
You might remember “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” from your childhood.
This book, written by Eric Carle, first came out in 1969.
It’s about a caterpillar that eats its way through different foods before turning into a butterfly.
The book stands out with its colorful illustrations and simple, engaging story.
Kids love flipping through the pages and touching the different holes in the foods.
This classic has been translated into 70 languages and sold over 55 million copies.
It’s a great pick for teaching young children about counting, days of the week, and the life cycle of a butterfly.
2) Where the Wild Things Are
“Where the Wild Things Are” by Maurice Sendak is a classic children’s book that first hit shelves in 1963.
It tells the story of a young boy named Max who, after being sent to his room, escapes to a fantastical land filled with wild creatures.
The book stands out because it addresses emotions like anger and frustration, which weren’t commonly explored in children’s literature at the time.
Max’s adventures in the wild land give him a chance to confront and understand these feelings.
The illustrations are another highlight, bringing the wild creatures to life in vivid detail.
They create a visual story that complements the text, making it engaging for kids.
Published by HarperCollins, “Where the Wild Things Are” won the 1964 Caldecott Medal for its distinguished illustrations.
This recognition helped cement its place in children’s literature.
Whether you’re revisiting it or reading it for the first time, the book’s blend of imagination and emotion continues to captivate readers of all ages.
The timeless story remains a favorite and is often considered one of the best picture books ever created.
3) Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day
You might have heard of Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.
This classic children’s book was written by Judith Viorst and illustrated by Ray Cruz.
Published in 1972, it quickly became a favorite.
Alexander’s day starts badly when he wakes up with gum in his hair and just keeps getting worse.
The book captures the feeling of having an awful day perfectly.
Alexander thinks about moving to Australia to escape his troubles.
It’s a funny and relatable story.
Kids love it because they get to see that everyone has bad days.
The illustrations by Ray Cruz add charm and humor to Alexander’s misadventures.
This book has been recognized with several awards, including being named an ALA Notable Children’s Book.
It’s also a Reading Rainbow book.
In recent years, it was turned into a movie starring Steve Carell and Jennifer Garner.
The story remains popular across generations.
4) Corduroy
Corduroy, written and illustrated by Don Freeman, was first published in 1968.
This book has been a favorite among children for over five decades.
The story follows a cute teddy bear named Corduroy who lives in a department store.
One night, he goes on an adventure to find his missing button.
You will love how Corduroy explores the store, climbing escalators and finding fun places.
It’s a simple tale but full of charm and excitement.
Corduroy’s adventure captivates kids and teaches them about perseverance and friendship.
The illustrations are colorful and bring Corduroy’s world to life.
If you haven’t read this classic yet, it’s a must-have for any children’s book collection.
5) Frog and Toad Are Friends
“Frog and Toad Are Friends” by Arnold Lobel is a classic children’s book from 1970.
The book is a collection of short stories about two best friends, Frog and Toad.
You’ll enjoy the simple and heartwarming tales that highlight the bond between the two characters.
Each story carries a gentle lesson about friendship, making it perfect for young readers.
The illustrations add to the charm, bringing Frog and Toad’s world to life.
You’ll find it easy to get lost in their adventures, whether they’re writing letters or finding lost buttons.
This book remains special because of its timeless themes and enduring characters.
If you haven’t read “Frog and Toad Are Friends,” it’s a must-read for you and your family.
Cultural Impact of 70s Children’s Books
Children’s books from the 1970s left a lasting mark on readers with their rich themes and unique illustration styles.
Themes and Messages
The 1970s saw children’s books tackle a variety of important subjects, making them relatable across generations.
Stories often focused on self-discovery and friendship, helping kids navigate their emotions and relationships.
In books like Fantastic Mr Fox by Roald Dahl (1970), themes of cleverness and resourcefulness were highlighted through the story of a fox who outwits three greedy farmers.
This book encouraged readers to think creatively and stand up to bullies.
Another example is Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson, where themes of imagination, loss, and coping with grief are central.
When Jess loses his friend Leslie, the story comments on facing emotional challenges and building resilience.
Illustration Styles
Illustrations played a big role in bringing these stories to life.
The 70s featured a range of styles, from whimsical to stark and atmospheric.
For example, Maurice Sendak, known for Where the Wild Things Are (though published in 1963, its influence continued strong in the 70s), used detailed and expressive drawings to capture the emotion and imagination of the narratives.
In The Lorax by Dr. Seuss (1971), the colorful and vibrant illustrations were not just eye-catching but also emphasized the environmental themes, making the story’s message more impactful.
The blend of text and visuals in these books created an immersive experience, enhancing the storytelling and engaging young readers in a magical way.
Authors Who Shaped 70s Children’s Literature
The 1970s brought many talented writers who created stories that have become timeless classics.
While some authors are well-known, others have remained relatively under the radar.
Prominent Figures
Roald Dahl stands out as one of the most influential children’s authors of the 70s.
His book Fantastic Mr. Fox (1970) tells the fun and adventurous tale of a clever fox who outsmarts three mean farmers.
Dahl’s ability to create unique characters and thrilling plots made him a favorite for many young readers.
Judy Blume is another big name.
She wrote Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret (1970), which tackles the challenges of growing up.
Blume’s relatable storytelling has helped many children and teens navigate their own experiences.
Katherine Paterson also made a significant mark with Bridge to Terabithia (1977).
This touching story explores friendship and loss, resonating with readers of all ages.
Lesser-Known Authors
Rachel Isadora published Ben’s Trumpet in 1979.
Though not as famous as Dahl or Blume, Isadora made a name for herself with this heartwarming story about a boy dreaming of becoming a trumpet player.
Her realistic yet hopeful depiction of a child’s aspirations struck a chord with many.
Patricia MacLachlan is remembered for Arthur, For the Very First Time (1980).
This story, though less known, captures the curiosity and adventures of a young boy discovering the world.
K.M. Peyton might not be a household name, but her Flambards series, starting in 1967 with Flambards, gained popularity for its engaging stories about life in Edwardian England.
The adventures and growth of the main character captured the imaginations of many young readers.
These authors, whether widely recognized or not, have all contributed uniquely to the rich landscape of children’s literature in the 70s.
Legacy and Influence on Modern Children’s Books
Books from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s have had a big impact on today’s children’s literature.
Roald Dahl, with books like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and James and the Giant Peach, brought fantasy and adventure to kids’ books.
These stories showed that it’s okay to be different and that magic can happen in everyday life.
Dr. Seuss used rhyme and colorful illustrations to engage young readers, making reading fun and easy to remember.
Books like Green Eggs and Ham and The Cat in the Hat still help kids learn to read today with their simple, catchy language.
Judy Blume tackled real-life issues that kids face, like bullying and family changes.
Her stories like Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret help children understand and talk about their own feelings and challenges.
Eric Carle used bright pictures and simple words to tell stories that captivate young minds.
His book The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a favorite that helps kids learn about counting, days of the week, and the life cycle of a butterfly.
The Berenstain Bears series by Stan and Jan Berenstain taught lessons about family and morals in a fun way.
Titles like The Berenstain Bears and the Messy Room help kids learn the importance of cleanliness and responsibility in a way they can relate to.
