19 children's books you should re-read as an adult

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Just because we get older doesn't mean the life lessons we learn from children's books are any less important. 

We asked Louise Lareau, the managing librarian at the Children's Center at the New York Public Library, to recommend the books that every adult should read again.

Here are 19 of the most compelling. You can see more recommendations at the New York Public Library's website here.

"Anne of Green Gables" by L.M. Montgomery

"Anne of Green Gables" is a bestseller for good reason. The fiery, independent red-haired orphan captures the adventurous spirit of childhood.

The book makes you see the magic of the world around us in nature, friends, and neighbors through Anne’s eyes.

Buy the book here >>

"Charlotte’s Web" by E.B. White

Who doesn’t remember the story of Wilbur, the tiny runt piglet, and Charlotte, the wise old spider?

Charlotte’s beautiful webs with words save Wilbur from slaughter and thrust him into the limelight of the county fair. The witty, compassionate book teaches adults and children alike about friendship and loss.

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"The Giver" by Lois Lowry

This haunting 1994 Newbery Medal winner is worth a reread to revisit the utopian society of The Community. Everything is in black and white — except for the Giver’s memories.

Gradually, the reader learns about the price of conformity. "The ending of this story still has people arguing over 20 years later," Lareau says.

Buy the book here >>