We admit we feel less guilty letting them plug into a movie when we know the story originated from an intellectually stimulating book. (Besides, these movies are so good, they could definitely stand on their own.)
Charlotte’s Web
Whimsical animation, beautiful music, Oprah’s soothing voice - we’d gladly watch this movie even if it wasn’t one of our all-time favourite children’s books.
Charlotte’s Web; available at www.hmv.ca; $17
Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who!
We love a movie that works on two levels, but one that weaves in lessons of tolerance, inclusion and cross-cultural friendships? This film had us at the speck of dust.
Horton Hears a Who; available at www.bestbuy.ca; $13
Mary Poppins
You didn’t know this classic movie is also a three-book series? Of course, only a proper English author could find the medicinal properties of a spoonful of sugar.
Mary Poppins; available at www.chapters.indigo.ca; $31
Harry Potter
It doesn’t much matter which movie (or which book it came from), this franchise is arguably the biggest boost of literacy in young adults since, well, ever?
Harry Potter years 1-5; available at www.amazon.ca; $45
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
We’re told this adaptation of the timeless Roald Dahl tale is infinitely entertaining. We wouldn’t know; when Johnny Depp appears, we enter a “special” kind of daydream.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory; available at www.bestbuy.ca; $9
Thought that was sweet? You’ll enjoy: