Mother Goose Day was founded in 1987 by Gloria T. Delamar, to accompany the publication of her book, Mother Goose: From Nursery to Literature. That was some pretty smart marketing. It’s kind of caught on, too, with May 1st now celebrated as Mother Goose Day in schools and libraries. That’s good news. After all, everyone has memories of Mother Goose stories. Whether we were introduced to them through bedtime stories or from a teacher, these timeless rhymes are ones that many parents find to be necessary reading to or for children.
Thankfully, there is a great selection of Mother Goose books available for every age and reading level to continue to entertain a new generation, as well as bring a smile of remembrance to older ones. Presented below are a few selections that are sure to enhance any family’s library–but we didn’t include Gloria’s book, just for spite…
Mary Engelbreit’s Mother Goose: One Hundred Best-Loved Verses by Mary Engelbreit
With a hundred rhymes, this is an impressive collection to initiate a child into the world of Mother Goose. There are the standards, which are well known and loved, but also some tales that other books leave out. The illustrations are beautiful and whimsical. It is a very popular selection among Mother Goose fans, and very deserving of a place in any child’s library. [Recommended for ages 4–8 years]
Mother Goose Coloring Book by Cathy Beylon
Sometimes, a child isn’t content just having a book read to them. This affordable book allows a child to express their artistic imagination by allowing the child to color a picture to go along with the rhyme. This is certainly an alternative to finding ways of removing crayon marks from treasured books, while still sharing these charming tales. With around 30 coloring pages, a child will find this book entertaining and allows their inner Picasso to come out to play. Your walls will thank you. [Recommended for ages 4–8 years]
The Real Mother Goose [Kindle Edition] by Blanche Fisher Wright
Pressed for time in your family’s schedule? Are the kids complaining that their backpacks are already too heavy and beginning to walk like Quasimodo under the weight? Allow the Digital Age to come to the rescue with this Kindle edition of the rhymes and pictures of our childhood. This version removes the bulk of packing additional physical books by delivering a high-tech format without losing any of its charm. [Recommended for ages 2–6 years]
Mother Goose Manners by Harriet Ziefert
One of the many benefits of Mother Goose rhymes are the lessons we learn from them. As parents, we’re always looking for fun ways to teach children how to better themselves, and this book helps to do just that. Delivering the lessons with humor is often a sure-fire way of making them stick no matter how young or old. This book focuses on the lesson of having good manners in a colorful and witty manner. [Recommended for ages 4–8 years]
