April 20, 2026

Books I Didn't Read Until I Was a Parent

Some of these books existed when I was a kid. Some didn't. I didn't read any of them until now.

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These are the books featured in this post — tap any cover to find it on Amazon.

Cover of Holes

Holes

by Louis Sachar

Three timelines that shouldn't connect but do — the book that made me understand why people call Sachar a genius.

Cover of Because of Winn-Dixie

Because of Winn-Dixie

by Kate DiCamillo

A lonely girl and a dog who bring a whole town to the same table.

Cover of Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs

by Anne Ursu

A modern Snow Queen retelling about friendship and the moment you realize not everyone is coming with you.

Cover of City of Ember

City of Ember

by Jeanne DuPrau

An underground city running out of light; the sense of discovery is electric.

Cover of Frindle

Frindle

by Andrew Clements

A kid invents a new word and it takes on a life of its own — funny, clever, and quietly moving.

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