10 books for children that are equally enjoyed by adults

Most children's books are misunderstood to be meant for only young readers. But many stories written for children are deep and insightful, and can be enjoyed by young minds as well as adults. Some books are so enlightening that no matter what a reader's age might be, there are always some lessons to be absorbed from these enticing stories. Even if you have read the books as a child, re-reading them from an adult's perspective is a unique experience. Here are some children's books that make a good read for adults as well.
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This collection contains 32 short stories that perfectly capture rural life. Set in a fictional village called Malgudi and with recurring characters across the stories, the book is wonderfully insightful. Among the many interesting charcaters that R K Narayan created, Swami, a young boy whose adventures and curiosity is reminiscent of our own childhood, has almost become a household name.
Photo: Indian Thought Publications

These stories take us to a time in history as well as a time in everyone's life which is pivotal. Ruskin Bond witnessed partition as a child and the books give us an idea of what that time was like while reminding us of our blissful days of childhood.
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This classic has had so many adaptations, yet rarely do they capture the essence of the original. The book shows us how the strict and harsh laws of the jungle can sometimes also be kinder (when the situation demands) than man-made diktats. This masterpiece by Rudyard Kipling is a constant reminder of how man is losing touch with nature.
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This modern classic made headlines when it was published with two covers—one meant for children and the other for adults—as the publishers were aware that their readership didn't fall into an age group. Though the books are about a magical world and wizards, they address real issues and are thought-provoking for children and adults alike.
Photo: Bloomsbury Press

This American classic is timeless as it has four sisters who are very different from each other trying to understand and accept their own place in the world. The book is filled with practical lessons that will help one throughout life.
Photo: Vintage Children's Classics

This bitter sweet fable is about a stranded pilot in the Sahara desert who had a chance encounter with a prince from outer space. Although the stories revolve around the prince and the many friends he makes, the narration is often filled with poetic language and philosophical discussions making it a fitter read for adults as wll.
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Not everyone is comfortable in the body they are born in and no book highlights that better than 'George'. The book is about a transgender girl born in the body of a boy. George knows he is a girl and suffers as he is born in a world that doesn't respect transgenders. This book is an eye-opener for all readers irrespective of their age.
Photo: Scholastic

This classic children's book by Lewis Carroll is also popular with adults. In this masterpiece, Carroll has created a unique world, which no reader had experienced before. As the title suggests, the story is about Alice, who falls down a rabbit hole and lands in a wonderland filled with characters like Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts, Humpty Dumpty and others.
Photo: Maple Press

This book was one of its kind at the time it was published because it was the fictional autobiography of a horse. The author Anna Sewall brought to life various characters, both animals and humans, who are difficult to forget. The story of Black Beauty gives its readers insight into a world and time, which perhaps exists no longer. This enticing story is also a lesson on kindness, love and respect.
Photo: Om Books International

Roald Dahl once again created magic with his book 'Matilda', where besides giving us a lovable young protagonist, he also created the larger-than-life headmistress Miss Trunchbull. Armed with telekinetic abilities, the once-bullied Matilda learns to overcome the hurdles in her life. While children relish how Matilda wins over evil with her intelligence, courage and goodness, for adults this book can also be a guide on parenting.
Photo: Penguin UK