Book Review of 101 Books to Read Before You Grow Up (Revised Edition)
The Children’s Book Review
101 Books to Read Before You Grow Up (Revised Edition)
Written by Bianca Schulze
Illustrated by Shaw Nielsen and Clémence Langevin
Ages: 6-12 | 144 Pages
Publisher: Walter Foster Jr. (2025) | ISBN: 978-0760397763
What to Expect: Reading lists, classic and modern children’s literature, family reading, book recommendations, literacy, and interactive journaling.
Essential reading guide, beloved classics, and exciting new favorites, journaling and reflection, family connection, literacy, and the joy of stories.
Few books earn the right to be called essential, but 101 Books to Read Before You Grow Up is one of them. This newly revised edition is not just a checklist—it’s a treasure map that helps kids discover the stories that shape imaginations, build empathy, and spark a lifelong love of reading.
Curated with care by Bianca Schulze, this collection pairs timeless classics with fresh, contemporary must-reads, ensuring that every reader finds books that feel both familiar and new. From Where the Wild Things Are and Charlotte’s Web to New Kid and Watercress, the selections celebrate diversity in voices, genres, and perspectives. Each entry includes a short, engaging summary, fun facts, and “what to read next” suggestions, while built-in journaling prompts invite children to make the book uniquely their own.
The playful illustrations by Shaw Nielsen and Clémence Langevin keep the pages buzzing with energy, turning what could have been a simple list into a vibrant, interactive reading adventure. Kids don’t just read about books here—they see themselves as readers, thinkers, and part of a bigger book-loving community.
Perfect for family bookshelves, classrooms, and libraries, 101 Books to Read Before You Grow Up is the kind of guide that grows with children—first inspiring them to pick up stories, and later becoming a keepsake full of their reading memories. This isn’t just a book for kids who already love to read—it’s a must-have for any child who might love to read, because it turns the act of reading into an adventure. A joyful, indispensable companion, it belongs in every young reader’s hands.
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About the Author
Award-winning author Bianca Schulze has captivated young readers worldwide with her beloved picture books, including the international bestseller Don’t Wake the Dragon. As the founder and editor-in-chief of The Children’s Book Review, she has established herself as a trusted voice in children’s literature, championing literacy and quality storytelling for over a decade. As host of the popular The Growing Readers Podcast, Bianca connects authors, educators, and families, sharing her passion for books that inspire young minds. Originally from Sydney, Australia, she now creates, writes, and raises her three children with her husband near Boulder, Colorado.
For more information, check out biancaschulze.com.
