How to Choose Literary Classics for Girls

Certain books ring a chord for girls especially. The Narnia series may appeal to both genders equally. However, other classics have found a popular audience with girls, and the books remain cherished in many girls' hearts on into adulthood...with or without the film version! Mothers often pass the beloved titles on to daughters even today. Here are ways to find some titles that might work for the girl in your life.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Locate on the Internet the University of Calgary's recommendations of classics for young people. Pay special attention to the books by women authors.

2. Ask your local bookstore clerk or children's librarian for ideas about girls' classics. If you have a specific theme, character or place in mind--or if you are considering an older, modern or contemporary book--be sure to mention this.

3. Look in the award-winning section of the children's area at a Borders bookstore for ideas. These books have literary awards embossed on their covers. Also, be sure to check out the section (in any bookstore) of boxed or packaged books in a series, especially those featuring girls as main characters. Books issued in a series may indicate classic status.

4. Suggest Frances Hodgson Burnett for her classics "The Secret Garden" and "A Little Princess". These old-fashioned novels engrave themselves on hearts and memories, and they also provide positive moral models and standards. "Anne of Green Gables" by Lucy Maud Montgomery is another favorite. Try the long beloved "Black Beauty" by Anna Sewell for horse or animal lovers. And don't forget Louisa May Alcott's "Little Women", a tried and true classic featuring four sisters growing up in a single parent household with their mother (their father is a soldier in the Civil War).

Tips & Warnings

• For more modern girls' classics, select the Judy Blume books. These are thirty years old but still relevant.
• Don't forget to let the young girl lead in her reading choices.

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