The ’90s was arguably one of the best decades. From Clueless to scrunchies and Friends, there’s a lot to be excited about when talking about the iconic decade. For those who were born in the ’90s, these are a few of the books you were probably reading while growing up.

Goosebumps series by R.L. Stine

Hands down one of the creepiest YA book series, Goosebumps is a must-read for anyone who grew up in the ’90s and early 2000s. With 62 books in the series, this is a series that is easy to lose yourself in over 20 years later.

Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech

Sharon Creech’s Walk Two Moons is a heartfelt YA novel about a young girl who tells her grandparents a story of Phoebe, a motherless young girl who experienced rather crazy things in life. In telling this story, she tells her own story as well, painting a picture of a 13-year-old girl who just wanted to know her mother.

Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes

Chrysanthemum is a powerful picture book that anyone at any age can learn from. With messages of acceptance, self-esteem and the negative effects teasing has on people, this pick makes for a wonderful children’s classic.

Lily’s Crossing by Patricia Reilly Giff

This children’s historical fiction novel gives young readers a look into World War II. Lily’s father has just left to fight in the war overseas and her best friend has moved away. But then she meets Albert, a refuge from Hungary. As the two bond, they share their secrets and find a lifetime friendship with one another.

Magic Treehouse series by Mary Pope Osborne

Magic Treehouse was a huge hit in the ’90s. A story about a couple of young children who were able to transport to a different time and place through their treehouse, this series covered many historical events in a playful way. It’s safe to say Osborne’s series had many kids wishing they too had a magic treehouse.

Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli

Not only was this novel widely loved by many kids born in the ’90s but it also brought racial issues to the forefront in a way that would positively impact readers for years to come. When Jeffrey “Maniac” Magee is orphaned and left with his unhappy aunt and uncle, he runs away and is later known as a myth who goes into racially divided communities and brings about change.

Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

It’s by no means a scientific fact but it’s safe to assume that everyone who reads this book sheds a tear (or 100). When young Marty finds a dog behind his home, he takes an immediate liking to the innocent creature, naming him Shiloh. But quickly Marty finds out that the dog is being abused by its owner. When Shiloh runs to Marty for safety, the young boy takes the dog in, exposing his family to the wrath of their cruel neighbor.

Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein

Shel Silverstein was the master of poetry for young readers throughout the ’90s. If you didn’t own the box set, you most likely owned Where the Sidewalk Ends. The collection included classic poems like “The Loser” and “Listen to the Mustn’ts.”

The Black Lagoon series by Mike Thaler

Another childhood classic series that includes elements of horror and plenty of monsters, The Black Lagoon series was a favorite among many ’90s readers. From creepy teachers to terrifying Halloween party experiences, these books had a little something for everyone.

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom was the children’s book that taught young kids the alphabet. With a catchy rhyme about the letters of the alphabet making their way to the top of a coconut tree, it was a fun way to learn the very basics of the English language.

The Magic School Bus series by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen

Much to the delight of fans of this series, there was an accompanying TV show that many teachers would incorporate into their curriculum – it was always a good day when we got to watch an episode during science class. Teaching valuable lessons about the body, nature and other scientific matters, The Magic School Bus series was a favorite amongst kids and educators.

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