The Five Children and It

By: E. Nesbitt

This is one of the most charming children's books ever written.

The story is about five children in England during the early 1900's. They are on a summer vacation and come across a most curious creature. This creature is rather taciturn and grumpy- but has a most special gift. He can give out wishes! He gives the children a wish a day and tells them little stories about previous wishes he has granted.

The children are thrilled with this before them- they instantly begin thinking of different wishes that they want. But by the end of the book they begin to realize that having your wish isn't always the best thing in the world… it can cause some problems. Like why does the stolen jewelry turn up on their mother's bureau?

This is really a wonderful book, great for read aloud.