When kids read stories that teach them moral lessons, the children learn the value of sharing, telling the truth and doing their best. Aesop's Fables are among the most famous moral stories, however, they are not the only stories that can be used to teach moral lessons. Parenthood.com created a list of the "100 Best Children's Books" and many include moral lessons for children.
Aesop's Fables
According to legend, Aesop lived more than 2000 years ago. Aesop was a slave who became a freeman. Once Aesop was free, he traveled extensively and during his travels he shared his fables with the people he met. One of Aesop's most famous fables is The Wolf in Sheep's Clothing-- a tale which teaches the moral lesson that appearances can be very misleading. Another of Aesop's famous tales is The Hare and the Tortoise. In this tale, children learn that being the fastest does not mean you are the best. Instead, the moral lesson of this fable is that if you do your best, you can succeed.
The Velveteen Rabbit
When a velveteen rabbit wants to know what is real in the world, he takes the reader on an emotional road of discovery. Children learn the importance of love--both the value of loving others and of being loved. The Velveteen Rabbit was the winner of the IRA/CBC Children's Choice Award.
Charlotte's Web
Named as both a Newbery Honor Book and and an ALA Notable Children's book, Charlotte's Web has been popular with children and parents since it was first published in 1954. A smart spider named Charlotte saves Wilbur, a pig, letting readers discover the value of teamwork and friendship.
