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The Most Popular Children’s Book in Each State

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Children’s literature holds a special place in our hearts, and it’s fascinating to see how different stories resonate with young readers in various states across the United States. From timeless classics to modern tales, each region seems to have its favorites.

A new report by literacy experts 95 Percent Group showed us the most popular children’s book in every state in the U.S.

Let’s journey through the country and discover the most beloved children’s books in each state and why they hold such a cherished spot in the hearts of young readers.

Alabama 

Welcome to Sweet Home Alabama Road Sign along Interstate 10 in Robertsdale, Alabama USA, near the State Border with Florida.
Image Credit: Allard One/Shutterstock.

 

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Matilda

 
Alabama’s young readers find inspiration in Roald Dahl’s “Matilda,” a heartwarming story about a little girl with extraordinary talents who triumphs over adversity. Matilda’s love for books and her quest for justice capture the imagination of children in the Heart of Dixie.

Alaska 

Chugach Alaska Range
Image Credit: xavitorrents/Shutterstock.

 

Most Beloved Children’s Book: The Secret Garden

 

Amidst Alaska’s rugged wilderness, Frances Hodgson Burnett’s “The Secret Garden” brings a touch of magic to young readers. The story of Mary Lennox’s discovery of a hidden, rejuvenating garden resonates with Alaska’s appreciation of nature’s beauty.

Arizona 

Sunset view of the desert and mountains near Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
Image Credit: JeniFoto/Shutterstock.

 

Most Beloved Children’s Book: The Giving Tree

 

Shel Silverstein’s “The Giving Tree” is celebrated in the Grand Canyon State. The heartfelt tale of the bond between a boy and a selfless tree has a deep emotional impact on Arizona’s young readers, teaching the value of selflessness.

Arkansas 

Little Rock, Arkansas, USA downtown skyline on the Arkansas River.
Image Credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

 

Arkansas children are enchanted by Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” The story of young Charlie’s extraordinary adventure in Willy Wonka’s chocolate wonderland is a sweet escape that captures the imagination of kids across the state.

California 

California Coast near Carmel .
Image Credit: slickspics
via DepositPhotos.com.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Winnie-the-Pooh

 

California’s little ones find comfort in A.A. Milne’s “Winnie-the-Pooh.” The lovable bear and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood exemplify the spirit of friendship, warmth, and adventure, all qualities cherished in the Golden State.

Colorado 

Maroon Bells and Maroon Lake - A wide-angle autumn midday view of snow coated Maroon Bells reflecting in crystal clear Maroon Lake, Aspen, Colorado, USA.
Image Credit: Sean Xu/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Charlotte’s Web

 

Colorado’s young readers connect deeply with E.B. White’s “Charlotte’s Web.” The heartwarming story of Wilbur the pig and his friendship with the clever spider Charlotte resonates with the state’s love for nature and animals.

Connecticut

A beautiful Autumn morning in Shelton, Connecticut, USA.
Image Credit: LBSimms Photography/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Stellaluna

 

Janell Cannon’s “Stellaluna” enchants young readers in Connecticut. This tale of a baby fruit bat raised by birds teaches lessons of acceptance, diversity, and the importance of family, which resonates with children across the Constitution State.

Delaware 

The rock climbing wall at Alapocas Run State Park, Wilmington, Delaware, USA in the colorful fall.
Image Credit: Bo Shen/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Clifford the Big Red Dog

 

Delaware’s children adore the beloved “Clifford the Big Red Dog” by Norman Bridwell. Clifford’s lovable antics and larger-than-life personality captivate young hearts in the First State.

Florida 

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLORIDA, USA - FEBRUARY 18, 2017: NASA logo on mock Globe on input to NASA Kennedy Space Center, Apollo Saturn V Center at Kennedy Space Center, Orlando, Florida.
Image Credit: NadaK2 via DepositPhotos.com.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Treasure Island

 

In the Sunshine State of Florida, Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island” transports young readers into a world of pirates, treasure maps, and adventure. Florida’s coastline and maritime history make this classic tale a perfect fit for its young adventurers.

Georgia

Jekyll Island, Georgia/USA - March 30, 2016: The stone entrance sign surrounded by water and palm trees Jekyll Island.
Image Credit: Kim Lewis Photography/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Curious George

 

Georgia’s children share their hearts with the mischievous monkey in “Curious George” by H.A. Rey and Margret Rey. George’s curiosity and charm mirror the inquisitive nature of young Georgians.

Hawaii 

Little Beach, Maui, Hawaii
Image Credit: Pierre Leclerc/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: The Rainbow Fish

 

With the picturesque beauty of Hawaii’s coastlines, children are enchanted by Marcus Pfister’s “The Rainbow Fish.” This story about sharing, friendship, and the sparkling beauty of the deep blue sea resonates with Hawaii’s young readers.

Idaho 

View of the Sawthooth mountains of Idaho in the fall in the evening light.
Image Credit: OLya_L/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Anne of Green Gables

 

L.M. Montgomery’s “Anne of Green Gables” finds a special place in the hearts of young readers in Idaho. Anne’s adventures in the charming countryside of Prince Edward Island are appreciated by Idaho’s nature lovers.

Illinois

Chicago suburban neighborhood.
Image Credit: Burlingham/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Clifford the Big Red Dog

 

Illinois children share their love for the “Clifford the Big Red Dog” series. Clifford’s lovable escapades in the fictional Birdwell Island teach important life lessons, which children across Illinois cherish.

Indiana 

Indianapolis, IN - August 5: Indiana state fair ground are prepared for opening on August 6.
Image Credit: Alexey Stiop/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Matilda

 

Indiana’s young readers find inspiration in Roald Dahl’s “Matilda.” Matilda’s love for books, resilience, and determination to stand up against injustice are qualities that resonate with children in the Hoosier State.

Iowa 

Des Moines Iowa skyline and public park in USA (United States).
Image Credit: f11photo/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Clifford the Big Red Dog

Children in Iowa wholeheartedly embrace “Clifford the Big Red Dog,” reveling in the adventures of the lovable oversized canine. Norman Bridwell’s tales of Clifford, the red Labrador Retriever, resonate with young readers, teaching valuable life lessons while fostering a deep love for reading and kindness in this heartland state.

Kansas 

Wichita, Kansas, USA downtown city skyline at dusk.
Image Credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Little House on the Prairie

 

Kansas, the setting of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s beloved series, holds “Little House on the Prairie” dear. The pioneering spirit of the Ingalls family resonates deeply with young readers across the state.

Kentucky 

Thoroughbred horses grazing at sunset in a field in Kentucky.
Image Credit: Patrick Jennings/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Little House on the Prairie

 

“Little House on the Prairie” also captures the hearts of young Kentuckians. Laura Ingalls Wilder’s tales of family, adventure, and the American frontier hold timeless appeal in the Bluegrass State.

Louisiana 

NEW ORLEANS - MAY 6: Central Business District and French Quarter skyline as seen from Algiers Point in New Orleans on May 6, 2014.
Image Credit: Mark Van Scyoc/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Clifford the Big Red Dog

 

Louisiana’s children join the nationwide admiration for “Clifford the Big Red Dog.” The lovable red canine and his loyal companion, Emily Elizabeth warm young hearts in the Pelican State.

Maine 

A wood hand painted and carved sign advertising fresh Maine lobster.
Image Credit: Darryl Brooks/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Blueberries for Sal

 

Young Mainers cherish Robert McCloskey’s “Blueberries for Sal.” Set against a backdrop of Maine’s natural beauty, this heartwarming story teaches the joy of simple pleasures, like picking blueberries in the summer.

Maryland 

Baltimore, Maryland, USA Skyline.
Image Credit:
sepavone/DepositPhotos.com.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Goodnight Moon

 

Margaret Wise Brown’s “Goodnight Moon” is a beloved bedtime story for children in Maryland. With its soft lyrics and calming illustrations of familiar things, this famous classic has the magical power to lull little ones into a peaceful slumber, making it a treasured tradition for families across the state.

Massachusetts 

George Washington Monument at Public Garden in Boston, Massachusetts..
Image Credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Make Way for Ducklings

 

Massachusetts celebrates “Make Way for Ducklings” by Robert McCloskey. This heartwarming tale about a duck family in Boston’s Public Garden captures the essence of the state’s historical and family-oriented culture.

Michigan 

Sunset at Mackinac Island Michigan.
Image Credit: Michael Deemer/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Clifford the Big Red Dog

 

Michigan’s young readers, like many others, are charmed by “Clifford the Big Red Dog.” Clifford’s big heart and adventures teach important life lessons for children in the Great Lakes State.

Minnesota 

Minneapolis downtown skyline in Minnesota, USA at sunset.
Image Credit: f11photo/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Treasure Island

 

Minnesota’s connection to “Treasure Island” by Robert Louis Stevenson continues the adventurous spirit of the state. The quest for hidden treasure resonates deeply with young Minnesotans.

Mississippi 

Jackson, Mississippi, USA 11-11-2020 Capitol Hill.
Image Credit: magraphy/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: The Cat in the Hat

 

Dr. Seuss’s classic “The Cat in the Hat” finds a special place in the hearts of Mississippi’s children. The whimsical and rhyming world of Dr. Seuss sparks the imagination of young readers across the Magnolia State.

Missouri 

View of the Osage River during the autumn season. It is located in the Lake of the Ozarks area of Missouri.
Image Credit: TommyBrison/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

 

Judi Barrett’s amusing story “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” has piqued the interest of young readers in Missouri. The unique image of a community where food falls from the sky instead of rain catches children’s interest and amazement, making it a valued favorite throughout the state.

Montana 

Obnoxious blonde woman does a duck face with pouting lips, hands on hips, in Glacier National Park, near Polebridge, Montana, in a field.
Image Credit: melissamn/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Fantastic Mr. Fox

 

In the scenic landscapes of Montana, young readers embark on exhilarating adventures with Roald Dahl’s “Fantastic Mr. Fox.” The cunning and clever Mr. Fox’s escapades align perfectly with the adventurous and nature-loving spirit of Montana’s children, making it a beloved choice in the state.

Nebraska 

Welcome to Nebraska.
Image Credit: Michael Kaercher/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Horton Hears a Who

 

In the heart of the United States, Dr. Seuss’s “Horton Hears a Who” resonates with the young readers of Nebraska. This cherished tale imparts valuable lessons of kindness, empathy, and the importance of standing up for others, making it a beloved choice among children in the state.

Nevada 

photo Las Vegas, Nevada, USA at the back of the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign reminding you to drive carefully and come back soon. Las Vegas, Nevada, USA at the back of the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign reminding you to drive carefully and come back soon. Las Vegas, Nevada, USA at the back of the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign reminding you to drive carefully and come back soon. images Download this image Image size / format Large · 8256 × 5504 pixels 28 × 18 in·300 DPI·JPG License type Standard license 1 credit Limited usage in print, advertising, and packaging. Unlimited web distribution. Plan FLEX 750 Subscription - Annual Billed Monthly Credits left 614 / 750 Plan expires: July 17, 2023 1 credit for a Standard License will be deducted from this plan. Used credits are non-refundable. Top choice! • High demand, loved by users Join the crowd, make this sought-after asset yours Stock Photo ID: 1925132639 Las Vegas, Nevada, USA at the back of the Welcome to Las Vegas Sign reminding you to drive carefully and come back soon.
Image Credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Treasure Island

 

Nevada’s desert landscapes and love for adventure make Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island” an ideal choice for young readers. This tale of pirates and hidden treasure ignites the imagination of Nevada’s children.

New Hampshire 

Fall colours in Franconia Notch State Park | White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire, USA.
Image Credit: Winston Tan/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Anne of Green Gables

 

New Hampshire’s children connect with the enchanting world of L.M. Montgomery’s “Anne of Green Gables.” Anne Shirley’s charm and her delightful adventures in Avonlea resonate deeply with young readers in the Granite State.

New Jersey 

Panoramic view of New Jersey City skylines.
Image Credit: Clari Massimiliano/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Frindle

 

Young readers in New Jersey have a soft spot for “Frindle” by Andrew Clements. This story about the power of words and imagination appeals to children’s creativity and curiosity in the Garden State.

New Mexico 

Ancient dwellings of UNESCO World Heritage Site named Taos Pueblo in New Mexico. Taos Pueblo is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in USA.
Image Credit: Nick Fox/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: The Cat in the Hat

 

Dr. Seuss’s “The Cat in the Hat” brings joy and laughter to children in New Mexico. The Cat’s whimsical antics, along with Thing 1 and Thing 2, capture the imaginations of young New Mexicans.

New York 

new york city skyline cityscape with statue of liberty over Hudson river.
Image Credit: shutterupeire/Shutterstock,

Most Beloved Children’s Book: The Little Prince

 

New York’s children find inspiration in Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s “The Little Prince.” This timeless tale of a young prince’s interstellar journey encourages young readers to explore their own imaginations.

North Carolina 

Public Beach access on Kure Beach on North Carolina's Atlantic coast.
Image Credit: Gary C. Tognoni/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: The Lorax

 

Dr. Seuss’s “The Lorax” teaches young North Carolinians the importance of environmental conservation and taking a stand for nature. This timely tale resonates with the state’s appreciation for its natural beauty.

North Dakota 

Aerial View of Grand Forks, North Dakota in Autumn.
Image Credit: Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Little House on the Prairie

 

“Little House on the Prairie” by Laura Ingalls Wilder captures the hearts of North Dakota’s young readers. The story of the pioneering Ingalls family’s life on the prairie continues to inspire young North Dakotans.

Ohio 

DAYTON, OHIO - 11 JUNE, 2013: A view of the skyline of Dayton, Ohio at sunset.
Image Credit: David Harmantas/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Matilda

 

The spirited and intelligent Matilda in Roald Dahl’s “Matilda” is an inspiration to young readers in Ohio. Matilda’s love for books and her bravery resonate with children across the Buckeye State.

Oklahoma 

Oklahoma landscape at sunset. Wichita Mountain Wildlife Preserve, Lawton, Oklahoma, United States.
Image Credit: Sarah Quintans/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Little House on the Prairie

 

Oklahoma’s children find connection and inspiration in “Little House on the Prairie” by Laura Ingalls Wilder. The resilience and adventures of the Ingalls family in the territory that would become Oklahoma have a special place in young hearts.

Oregon 

The towering cliffs at Smith Rock State Park near Bend, Oregon, USA at sunset.
Image Credit: Sarah Quintans/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Fantastic Mr. Fox

 

Young readers in Oregon join in on the adventures with Roald Dahl’s “Fantastic Mr. Fox.” Mr. Fox’s cleverness and resourcefulness capture the imaginations of children in the Beaver State.

Pennsylvania 

Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Philadelphia.
Image Credit: Songquan Deng/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

 

Pennsylvania’s children embark on a whimsical adventure in Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” The magic of Willy Wonka’s factory and the lessons learned by the lucky golden ticket winners resonate with young Pennsylvanians.

Rhode Island 

Beautiful sunset in Block Island, Rhode Island, USA.
Image Credit: WBHPhotos/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Goodnight Moon

 

In the Ocean State of Rhode Island, Margaret Wise Brown’s “Goodnight Moon” is a beloved bedtime story. The soothing narrative and comforting illustrations help young Rhode Islanders drift into sweet dreams.

South Carolina 

Historical downtown area of Charleston, South Carolina, USA at twilight.
Image Credit: f11photo/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Clifford the Big Red Dog

 

Young South Carolinians share their love for “Clifford the Big Red Dog.” Clifford’s big heart and endearing adventures create lasting memories in the Palmetto State.

South Dakota 

Sunset over Mount Rushmore, South Dakota, U.S.A..
Image Credit: jovannig via DepositPhotos.com.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Little House on the Prairie

 

Young readers in South Dakota are captivated by “Little House on the Prairie” by Laura Ingalls Wilder. The story of Laura and her family’s pioneering spirit resonates with the state’s rich history.

Tennessee 

Downtown Nashville, Tennessee cityscape at night.
Image Credit: photo.ua/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Little House on the Prairie

 

Tennessee’s children, like their neighbors in Kentucky and Oklahoma, cherish “Little House on the Prairie” by Laura Ingalls Wilder. The enduring tales of the Ingalls family remain timeless favorites in the Volunteer State.

Texas 

Brownsville, Texas, USA - February 26, 2022: Charro Days Grand International Parade, a group of Classic Ford trucks part of the parade.
Image Credit: Roberto Galan/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

 

The whimsical world of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory in Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” enchants young readers in Texas. The story’s magical wonder and lessons learned through the golden tickets have a special place in the hearts of young Texans.

Utah 

Narrows in Zion National Park, Utah
Image Credit: Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Matilda

 

Young readers in Utah are inspired by Roald Dahl’s “Matilda.” Matilda’s intelligence and determination to stand up against adversity resonate with children in the Beehive State.

Vermont 

Moutain hills and lakes lined with vibrant fall colors trees with orange red and yellow leaves in the vermont and new hampshire rural countryside white mountains.
Image Credit: Don Donelson/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Fantastic Mr. Fox

 

Vermont’s children join the adventure with Roald Dahl’s “Fantastic Mr. Fox.” Mr. Fox’s clever schemes and the camaraderie among the animals create lasting memories in the Green Mountain State.

Virginia 

Mount Vernon in Virginia .
Image Credit:
cfarmer via DepositPhotos.com.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: The Secret Garden

 

Virginia’s young readers find solace in Frances Hodgson Burnett’s “The Secret Garden.” The story of Mary Lennox’s transformation and the healing power of nature resonates deeply with children in the Old Dominion.

Washington 

Volcano of Mount St Helens, Washington.
Image Credit:
jovannig via DepositPhotos.com.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Fantastic Mr. Fox

 

Roald Dahl’s “Fantastic Mr. Fox” continues to be a beloved tale in Washington. The cunning and clever fox’s adventures inspire young readers in the Evergreen State.

West Virginia 

New River Gorge, West Virginia, USA autumn morning landscape at the Endless Wall.
Image Credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: The Cat in the Hat

 

In the Mountain State of West Virginia, young readers delight in Dr. Seuss’s “The Cat in the Hat.” The Cat’s playful antics and rhyming charm capture the hearts and imaginations of children in West Virginia.

Wisconsin 

Madeline Island is the largest of the Apostle Islands.
Image Credit: Hoogz Photography/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: Clifford the Big Red Dog

 

Wisconsin children share their love for “Clifford the Big Red Dog.” Clifford’s lovable adventures and life lessons inspire young hearts in the Badger State.

Wyoming 

Devils Tower, Wyoming - May 26, 2020: The trading post at Devil's Tower National Monument.
Image Credit: Logan Bush/Shutterstock.

Most Beloved Children’s Book: The Lorax

 

Wyoming’s children learn the importance of environmental stewardship from Dr. Seuss’s “The Lorax.” The Lorax’s message of conservation and environmental responsibility strikes a chord with young readers in the Equality State.

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Young indian handsome man in glasses reading book at cafe.
Image Credit: Dean Drobot/Shutterstock.

 

Hi! I am a millennial mom with a passion for personal finance. I have always been “into” personal finance but got inspired to start my blog after a period of extended unemployment. That experience really changed the way I viewed my relationship with money and the importance of accessible personal finance education.