These books were written specifically for younger readers, but that doesn’t mean adults can’t enjoy them. Just because a book is accessible to a younger person doesn’t prohibit adult readers from enjoying its whimsical and comforting stories. A good children’s or young adult book can and should appeal to all ages. If you would like more from this list, please enjoy my expanded list, Cozy Children’s Books Every Reader will Love.
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Ideal for Ages 8-11
A very entitled young girl loses her parents and is sent to live with her estranged uncle on his grand gothic estate. There she finds an enchanting garden behind a locked gate and soon befriends a local boy and her sickly cousin.
Winterhouse by Ben Guterson
Ideal for Ages 9-13
Elizabeth, an orphan, is sent to the hotel Winterhouse by her awful guardians. The proprieter is peculiar, the library is enormous, and the mysteries run deep.
The Lost Library by Rebecca Stead
Ideal for Ages 9+
Told from the perspectives of a ghost librarian, a tabby cat, and a boy named Evan. A little free library pops up without warning in a small town. Then, two books lead Evan and his friend to a small-town mystery that no adults want to discuss.
The Ogress and the Orphans by Kelly Barnhill
Ideal for Ages 9-14
A town that’s fallen on very hard times. A blonde and flashy mayor who promises he can solve all their problems. An Ogress who draws the ire and blame of her fellow citizens. Can the orphans, the only ones who know the true heart of the Orgress, clear her name and solve the mystery of why the town is struggling so much?
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery (The Graphic Novel)
Ideal for Ages 8-11
Did you know Anne of Green Gables was a adapted into a Graphic novel? Along with the beautiful original story you can bask in the cozy illustrations of this book.
Anne is adopted by a brother and sister. What follows is her experiences and escapades on the beautiful island of Avonlea.
Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
Ideal for Ages 8-11
On a rare venture out from her step-mother’s hat shop, Sophie attracts the attention of a witch, who casts a terrible spell transforming the young girl into an old crone.
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser
Ideal for Ages 8-11
The Vanderbeeker’s have always lived in a little brownstown on 141st street. So when their grump of a landlord decides not to renew their lease they have to do whatever they can to convince him to let them stay.
Greenglass House by Kate Milford
Ideal for Ages 10-12
Milo is the adopted son of the owner of the Greenglass House. An inn. But it’s the middle of winter, and no one checks in at this time of year. Instead of the relaxing season that Milo was planning on, the Inn is overrun by strange and secretive guests. With the help of his friend Meddy, Milo must find out what kind of connection these new guests have to the Inn.
Hilda and The Troll by Luke Pearson
Ideal for Ages 8-12
The magic and folklore of the wild, windswept North come alive in this book about an adventurous little girl and her habit of befriending anything, no matter how curious it might seem.
Snow & Rose by Emily Winfield Martin
Ideal for Ages 6-10
Snow and Rose didn’t know they were in a fairy tale. People never do. . . .
This is the story of two sisters and the enchanted woods that have been waiting for them to break a set of terrible spells.
A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus
Ideal for Ages 9+
A heartwarming story about three siblings, evacuated from London to live in the countryside, looking for a permanent home–and a new meaning for family.
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
Ideal for Ages 4+
Whether the four friends, a toad, mole, badger, and rat, are setting forth on an exciting adventure, engaging in a comic caper, or simply relaxing by the River Thames, their stories are among the most charming in all of English literature.
Kiki’s Delivery Service by Eiko Kadono
Ideal for Ages 9+
Kiki is now thirteen and witches tradition says she must find a new town to call home for one year. She expects that her powers will bring joy to everyone but it’s hard to make friends in a new place.
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