We asked the team at ISEB to tell us about the books that first inspired a love of reading for them or their children and families. Take a trip down memory lane and explore some fantastic books! 

ANT and BEE by Angela Banner

“This was my favourite book growing up and I still own a copy today!” – Vikki

A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett

“My favourite book when I was little was The Little Princess. I was a mega fan of Shirley Temple and watched her in the film, then was given the book at Christmas. I love the story to this day.” – Gugu

Avocado Baby by John Burningham

“This was my favourite book when I was little and I’ve bought it for all my friends when they’ve had their first baby!” – Asha

Handa’s Surprise by Eileen Browne

“An absolute favourite to read for my girls was Handa’s Surprise” – Lisa

Mrs Armitage, Queen of the Road by Quentin Blake

“I have very fond memories of my mum reading this to me putting on all sorts of funny voices bringing the characters, especially little Breakspear, to life!” – Zoe

What Katy Did by Susan Coolidge

“I struggled to pick just one, but What Katy Did was handed down from Granny to my mum and to me, my copy is turning 100 years old this year!” – Anna

Chimp and Zee by Catherine and Laurence Anholt

“Both my children loved reading this book together.” – Vikki

Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

“For me, Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak was a favourite of my brother and me and was one of the first books I got my son as a present to mark 6 months. He loved it and was the theme for his first birthday party!” – Carolyn

The team at ISEB also curated some suggested reading suitable for young children through to 11-13 years old, explore the collection!

– It’s never too early to develop a love for reading

– Building reading habits

– Book recommendations for 9-11 year olds

– Book recommendations for 11-13 year olds