I just ordered a pile of books for an upcoming baby shower. I always get books. I love picking them out, I love supporting the authors, and I love giving a gift that will be cherished and used over and over again. Plus, kid's books are expensive and I want every kid to have a ginormous library so I feel I have to do my part.

I always, always, give Don and Audrey Wood's THE LITTLE MOUSE, THE RED RIPE STRAWBERRY AND THE BIG HUNGRY BEAR. I've read that book so many times, I can recite it from memory. I own my own copy as an adult, though I first discovered it when my brothers were small (they're 22 now). The illustrations are incredible.

My latest fave to give is Neil Gaiman's INSTRUCTIONS. I want a copy of this for myself, too. Such fantastic advice for any age. :)

The book I would give if it wasn't out of print? Steven Kellogg's THE BOY WHO WAS FOLLOWED HOME, which you may recall me mentioning recently.

I also own A ROSE FOR PINKERTON by Steven Kellogg, THE ALWAYS PRAYER SHAWL by Sheldon Oberman, and THE BUTTER BATTLE BOOK by Dr. Seuss, which is my very favorite Seuss book (but which isn't really a kids book at all).

What are some of your favorite children's books? Do you still own any as an adult?