Published on: 2026-09-06
Source: Moscow Government – Правительства Москвы –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
On weekends, employees of Moscow reading rooms talk about books that help broaden horizons, encourage reflection on important matters, or simply bring happy moments. Elena Krupennikova from the Central Library No. 70 named after M.A. Sholokhov recommends works by Mikhail Yasnov, Daria Plaksunova, and other authors.
You can book the publication of interest using the service “Moscow Libraries“.
For toddlers
“The Big Book of Animals” by Mikhail Yasnov
This collection of poems about animals was created in memory of the writer who passed away in 2020. It contains 42 of his works — simple and memorable. The author played with words easily, inventing funny combinations that will definitely appeal to a child.
The texts are complemented by magnificent illustrations by the artist Karina Kino: thanks to the rich details, you want to study each page for a long time. Both adults and children will enjoy looking at the warm color scheme and expressive depictions of animals. The book is perfect for settling in comfortably with it, reading aloud, and discussing which animals were liked the most and why.
“Madeline Finn and the Library Dog” by Lisa Papp
“Maideline Finn and the Library Dog” is a touching story about how support and a calm atmosphere help overcome difficulties.
The main character Madeline cannot read at all. She is helped to cope with this by Bonnie the dog, who simply sits nearby while the girl tries to put letters together into words.
I recommend reading this book with children who, like Madeline, want to be able to read independently but for some reason have not yet succeeded. Here you won’t find moralizing, but you will see a clear example: sometimes it is enough just to give the child time and a calm listener.
For older children
“What Books Smell Like” by Darya Plaksunova
“What Books Smell Like” is an educational reading experience that allows a child to learn how books are made and repaired, what is needed for this, and which specialists are involved in all processes. In addition, it contains a lot of other interesting information: for example, Darya Plaksunova explains how to organize a book club, come up with a paper gift, or start collecting a home library.
How to Get a Child Interested in Reading: Librarians’ Life Hacks
“The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore” by William Joyce
The idea of a country where all books are alive appealed to me, and I gladly read this work. The main character ends up in a wonderful place after a hurricane, inhabited by books that really want to be loved, read, and have their spines wiped. Small and large, cheerful and sad—they remind one of people in some way, each having its own character.
I think this story will surely awaken the desire to look at your own home bookshelf, take out some long-forgotten book, and give it another life through reading. In addition, you can watch the animated film of the same name, which was released in 2011.
“Lost Tales” by Anna James
“Lost Tales” will hold the young reader’s attention from the very first pages. The main character, Tilly, discovers new abilities within herself and finds herself in Paris during the Christmas holidays, where she will encounter magical tales, magic and villains, uncover mysteries, and find a family.
I think the main thing in this book is how the importance of family relationships is revealed. After reading it, it wouldn’t hurt to discuss this with the child. Moreover, of course, they will be interested in following the intricate plot and figuring out for themselves how it all ends.
For teenagers
“Romance with the Reader” by Olga Zamyatina
“A Romance with the Reader” is a story about how difficult it can be to cope with guilt and find support.
Seventh-grader Roma avidly reads books about vampires and then writes fanfiction. This way, he at least slightly distracts himself from what is happening in his real life: a quarrel with his best friend, conflicts with his parents. But one day, the protagonist meets a mysterious Ano Nim on the internet, who helps him find himself.
I like how Olga Zamyatina finely crafted the character of the teenager: Roma finds it difficult to talk about his pain, he acts contrary to everything because he considers himself guilty everywhere. The author does not simplify the situation and does not give ready-made easy answers. Nevertheless, the story does not press with despair, but gives hope and light.
In 2021, the book became a laureate of the Vladislav Krapivin International Children’s Literature Prize.
More excellent books, tested by readers of children’s libraries and their staff, are in the section “Librarian’s Tips”.
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