Editor's Picks

These are the favorite classic stories we read (perhaps many times) and never forget, and they make wonderful gifts for any young reader. They also happen to have adoption-related themes - about children living away from their biological parents (orphans, others), and offer a variety of uplifting life lessons. Listed alphabetically.

1) Anne of Green Gables (Complete Set)
A wonderful story of a young orphaned girl who is sent to live with a brother and sister in Prince Edward Island. The plan is for her to be adopted, but the couple - it turns out - were expecting a boy. This set includes all eight books of this memorable series. Suggested for readers age 9-12.

2) David Copperfield
This is the abridged version of Charles Dickens classic which may be easier for young readers (the unabridged version runs around 900 pages). Basically the story of orphaned David, it’s a wonderfully upbeat book, combining some of Dickens’ best characterizations - who can forget Uriah Heep? - drama, and humor. Teen to adult readers.

3) Little Men
In this sequel to "Little Women," author Louisa May Alcott continues the story of Jo who, with her husband, runs a school for orphaned boys and sons of "busy" fathers. Don’t be deceived by the title - it’s great reading for boys and girls. Suggested for readers age 9-12.

4) Oliver Twist
This Dickens classic about the orphaned Oliver offers a look at the bleak conditions and corrupt systems of child care of the times. The adventure of the story will appeal to younger readers. Suggested for teen to adult readers.

5) Once and Future King, The
This fantasy classic combines four books by T.H. White that tell the tale of King Arthur, Guinevere, Lancelot, the wizard Merlyn, and others. Following the story of the young orphan, Wart, who rises to become King is a glorious experience. Teen reading levels.

6) Pinocchio
This Disney version of the classic puppet-to-boy-to-son story includes wonderful illustrations originally created in the 1950s. To this day, when someone tells a lie, is there an adult, who read the book as a child, who doesn’t think of Pinocchio and his nose? For ages 4-8.

7) Pollyanna
The story of orphaned Pollyanna and her life with her aunt Polly. One of my lasting memories from the book is the Glad Game to help kids overcome adversity. Be sure to include a box of kleenex when you give it to your young readers. Suggested reading age: 8-12.

8) Secret Garden, The
The story of an orphaned girl, Mary, who goes to live with her uncle, is one of my favorites. The garden is a place each reader can find within him/herself and bloom just like the most beautiful flower. Suggested for readers 8-12.

9) Tom Sawyer
Mark Twain’s classic about an orphan living on the Mississippi River is a wonderful choice for both boys and girls, although boys will respond more directly to Tom’s experiences with bullies, his first girlfriend, and the adventures in his life. Great for young-to-mid teen readers.

10) Wizard of Oz, The
Frank Baum wrote the original story over 100 years ago, and this version incorporates the wonderful tale with exceptional art work that bring the characters to life in the imaginations of young readers. Read it to preschoolers, or let the youngest readers enjoy it for themselves. Recommended for ages 4-8.