Seven classic children's books that are perfect for a bedtime story

Disappearing into a fantasy world is something that many children adore.

Those storybooks that we grew up with stay dear to us even as adults because it evokes a kind of nostalgia.

And now, we as parents can recreate that magic that a story at bedtime brings.

But which ones to choose?

Why not delve into the timeless tomes that continue to inspire generation after generation of kids?

Read on to see what classics we've picked out…

1. The Secret Garden 

Published in 1993, this book will transport you to a magical world where a young girl, who is sent to live with her uncle after the death of her parents, stumbles upon a walled garden.

Once a place blooming with colour, it is not decrepit.

However, with the help of a servant boy, they begin to restore it to its former glory. 

2. The Wind in the Willows 

A timeless tale, this was first published at the turn of the century, in 1908.

It stemmed from a series of bedtime stories that British writer Kenneth Grahame wrote for his son.

It tells the story of the adventures of animal friends and neighbours in the English countryside, those being Mole, Rat, Toad, and Badger.

Perfect cosy reading for you and your little ones. 

3. The Bramly Hedge Series

A lesser known one but even for the stunning intricate illustrations alone, it's a must-read.

There are a lot of books in this series, the first one hitting shelves in 1980.

It centers on a family of mice who live together in the tranquil English countryside. 

Summer Story is an especially gorgeous read. 

4. Pollyanna

This is another old book – published in 1913.

But the story is so important and bursting with powerful messages.

An orphan, who is enterally optimistic, is sent t to live with her stern aunt and soon is teaching the townspeople lessons on being grateful for what you have got. 

5. Matilda

Published in 1988, most of us are familiar with the movie version which tells us the story of a gifted little girl who escapes her awful parents and goes to school for the first time.

6. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland

The oldest book on the list, Lewis Carroll penned this in 1875.

A young girl called Alice falls through a rabbit hole into a fantasy world full of weird-but-wonderful characters.

7. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe 

This book is the perfect book for your kids to read before they go to sleep.

It's set in a magical land that is only accessible at the back of a wardrobe.

Cue the four Pevensie siblings – Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy – exploring the land of Narnia and meeting both good and bad characters.