Germany... the land of castles, Brothers Grimm, pretzels, Haribo candy, and Christmas... perfect for kids! And wine and beer... perfect for parents! Germany is really kid-friendly and a wonderful place for a family trip. Kinder Hotels are special hotels set up for families with children (kinder means children in German). In a bakery, they might give a little complimentary croissant to your child, and at the deli meats counter in the supermarket, they might offer a piece of sliced sandwich meat for your child. Sometimes there are even step stools at these counters for children to be able to climb up to get their treat. Most restaurants and cafes have high chairs.
Mama Traveler Tip: Looking for a film to watch? In addition to reading books before a trip to Germany, there are also so many films to watch. A really great comedy film, Eins, zwei, drei (One, two, three), is primarily set in West Berlin during the Cold War with a quick pace and fun music.
On to the books... Germany is a major literary powerhouse of the world and many of the famous children's books by German authors have been translated to English. The Frankfurt Book Fair, the world’s largest trade fair for book and magazine publishers, could be fun to visit for those especially loving books.
Do you know of any other children’s books featuring Germany? Please feel free to note it in a comment below!
There are so many children's books about Germany that I've tried to categorize them...
Children's A to Z Books about Germany
Germany ABCs: A Book About the People and Places of Germany: An alphabetical exploration of the people, geography, animals, plants, history, and culture of Germany.
Children's Books about German Folktales and Legends
Which version of the famous Brothers Grimm fairy tales should you get? I've included some notes for each one that will hopefully help you choose! Do you have a favorite version or a version to recommend, especially for kids? Please feel free to note it in a comment below!
The most children friendly versions of the famous Grimm fairy tales are from the seventh and final edition the brothers published in 1857, which is quite different from the first edition they wrote forty-six years earlier, when both were still in their twenties. "The prominent Grimm scholar and translator Jack Zipes argues that the original 1812 edition is 'just as important, if not more important than the final seventh edition of 1857, especially if one wants to grasp the original intentions of the Grimms and the overall significance of their accomplishments.'"
Read more.
: For the very first time, The Original Folk and Fairy Tales of the Brothers Grimm makes available in English all 156 stories from the 1812 and 1815 editions. These narrative gems, newly translated and brought together in one beautiful book, are accompanied by sumptuous new illustrations from award-winning artist Andrea Dezsö. When Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm published their Children's and Household Tales in 1812, followed by a second volume in 1815, they had no idea that such stories as "Rapunzel,""Hansel and Gretel," and "Cinderella" would become the most celebrated in the world. Yet few people today are familiar with the majority of tales from the two early volumes, since in the next four decades the Grimms would publish six other editions, each extensively revised in content and style.
[Mama Traveler Note: This is the actual, uncensored, full, no-nonsense, most accurate translation of the first version published by the Brothers Grimm newly translated by scholar Jack Zipes and published with Princeton University Press. Read more.]
The Complete Grimm's Fairy Tales: A classic collection of timeless folk tales by Grimm Brothers, Grimm s Fairy Tales are not only enchanting, mysterious and amusing, but also frightening and intriguing. Delighting children and adults alike, these tales have undergone several adaptations over the decades. Once upon a time in a fairy tale world, There were magical mirrors and golden slippers, Castles and fields and mountains of glass, Houses of bread and windows of sugar. Frogs transformed into handsome Princes, And big bad wolves into innocent grandmothers. There were evil queens and wicked stepmothers, Sweethearts, true brides and secret lovers. In the same fairy world, A poor boy has found a golden key and an iron chest and We must wait until he has quite unlocked it and opened the lid. [Mama Traveler Note: This version includes the 1884 translation by Margaret Hunt, which is the most accurate and complete early translation. Read more about translations.]
Grimm's Fairy Tales: Lavish collections of classic fairy tales, stories and best-loved fables, retold and illustrated with humor and charm by renowned illustrator Val Biro. [Mama Traveler Note: This version includes 6 of the Grimm's fairy tales that are retold as a picture book with not very much text but many full-page images. Perfect for the littlest of little travelers to Germany!]
The Fairy Tales of the Brothers Grimm: An astounding volume from
Taschen editor Noel Daniel bringing together the best illustrations from 130 years of The Brothers Grimm with 27 of the most beloved Grimm stories, including Cinderella, Snow White, The Little Red Riding Hood, and Sleeping Beauty, amidst artwork by some of the most celebrated illustrators from Germany, Britain, Sweden, Austria, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and the United States working between the 1820s and 1950s. The new translation is based on the final 1857 edition of the tales, and stunning silhouettes from original publications from the 1870s and 1920s grace the tome’s pages, alongside brand new silhouettes created bespoke for this remarkable new volume.
Read more and see example illustrations here.
[Mama Traveler Note: This is a kid-friendly version with gorgeous and stunning illustrations.]
The Pied Piper of Hamelin: The Pied Piper of Hamelin, a poem by Robert Browning, is the subject of a legend from the town of Hamelin, Lower Saxony, Germany, in the Middle Ages. The earliest references describe a piper, dressed in multicolored clothing, who was a rat-catcher hired by the town to lure rats away with his magic pipe. But then the citizens refuse to pay for this service, and he retaliates by using his instrument's magic power on their children, leading them away like he did with the rats. Robert Browning’s famous verse retelling of the medieval legend of the Pied Piper is renowned for its humor and vivid wordplay. This version of the tale is beautifully illustrated by Kate Greenaway.
Berlioz the Bear: Zum, zum, buzz.... zum, zum, buzz... What's that strange buzz coming from the double bass? Berlioz has no time to investigate, because he and his bear orchestra are due at the gala ball in the village square at eight. But Berlioz is so worried about his buzzing bass that he steers the mule and his bandwagon full of magicians into a hole in the road and gets stuck. Time is running out, and if a rooster, a cat, a billy goat, a plow horse, and an ox can't rescue the bandwagon, who can? As the suspense mounts, intricate borders reveal the village animals making their way to the square one by one. When the clock chimes eight, the animals, ready to dance, have filled the square-but there's no sign of Berlioz. Jan Brett's glorious illustrations invite the eye to linger over exquisite details and humorous nuances that enhance the story. This delightful cumulative tale set in Bad Tolz, Germany is one that will be looked at again and again.
Freesland Fresh Air: Teacupke's Rose (Rural Life Around the World): Experience a culturally rich traditional German folktale for young children. Teacupke, a typical Frisian painted teacup, flees wind, rain, and storm in adventures capturing the charm of Ostfriesland in the lowlands of the German North Sea Coast. In search of a cover, the little teacup encounters comical hurdles until Auntie-Tantie performs her magic. The customary dikes, bikes, kites, and rainbows feature in the Krummhörn landscape.
Children's Books about Berlin
Let's Visit Berlin!: Adventures of Bella & Harry: Join sibling Chihuahuas, Bella and Harry, as they travel to Berlin and visit the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, Charlottenburg Palace and other fun places. Take a side trip to Potsdam. Enjoy some local cuisine (such as bratwurst) and learn basic German phrases. The Adventures of Bella & Harry is a picture book series that chronicles the escapades of a pup named Bella, her little brother Harry and their family, who travel the world exploring the sights and sounds of new, exciting cities.
A Day in Berlin: The fun way to discover Berlin (City Explorer): What could you see if you had a day in Berlin? Photojournalist Tim is thrilled to check out this impressive city. Armed with his camera and his handy researcher Jacob, he is ready for an adventure. Right away, Tim discovers that Berlin is fascinating! The Brandenburg Gate, relaxing parks, and spiced sausages… There are exciting landmarks and delicious treats around every corner. If he gets confused, fact-checking guru Jacob is there to provide insight and guidance. You can’t find a better world-traveling team!
Join Me on a Journey to Berlin!: A Child's First Travel Guide: Take a magical trip to Berlin with this fun and educational book for young children! Explore the capital city of Germany through vibrant illustrations and simple, engaging text that introduces young readers to the famous landmarks, delicious cuisine, and rich culture of Berlin. From exploring Museum Island to snacking on a Berliner donut, this book is the perfect introduction to travel and learning about the world. Join Me on a Journey to Berlin and discover the wonders of this exciting city!
Christmas from Heaven: The True Story of the Berlin Candy Bomber: Christmas from Heaven is the story of the humble beginnings of what became a beacon of hope to a war-torn land, the story of Gail Halvorsen, a young pilot in the US Army Air Corps who was assigned as a cargo pilot to the Berlin Airlift, in which US forces flew much-needed supplies into a Soviet-blockaded Berlin. As he performed his duties, Lt. Halvorsen began to notice the German children gathered by the fences of Tempelhof Air Base. Knowing that they had very little, he one day offered them some chewing gum. From that small act, an idea sprang: He would bomb Berlin with candy. Fashioning small parachutes, he and his crew sent them floating down as they approached the Berlin airport, wiggling the wings of their C-54 as a signal to the children that their anticipated cargo would soon arrive. Lt. Halvorsen became known by hundreds, if not thousands, of children in Berlin as Uncle Wiggly Wings or The Candy Bomber. Word soon spread, and donations of candy and other supplies poured in from sympathetic Americans. Lt. Halvorsen's small idea became a great symbol of hope not only to German children in a bombed-out city but to all those who yearned for freedom.
The Other Side of the Wall: In his debut graphic novel, Simon Schwartz tells the true story of his parents' coming of age in East Germany, their rejection of the communist way of life, and the challenges of leaving that world behind. Simon Schwartz was born in 1982 in East Germany, at a time when the repressive Socialist Unity Party of Germany controlled the area. Shortly before Simon's birth, his parents decided to leave their home in search of greater freedoms on the other side of the Berlin Wall. But East German authorities did not allow the Schwartz’s to leave for almost three years. In the meantime, Simon's parents struggled with the costs of their decision: the loss of work, the attention of the East German secret police, and the fragmentation of their family.
Children's Books about Munich
This Is Munich: Like the other Sasek classics, This is Munich is a facsimile edition of his original book, which was first published in 1969. The brilliant illustrations have been meticulously preserved and facts updated for the twenty-first century. The charming illustrations coupled with Sasek’s playful narrative make for a perfect souvenir that will delight both children and parents. Sasek introduces children—and many adults alike—to the ancient Bavarian capital. Stops include the New Town Hall, the Frauenkirche cathedral, and Munich’s most famous beer hall. With bright pictures and snappy commentary, Sasek wittily captures all the fascinating things to do and see in this German seat of culture—This is Munich!
Children's Books about Frankfurt
Lala Goes To Germany: This simple book speaks from the prospective of a young child as she learns of her father's military deployment to Frankfurt, Germany.
Children's Books about Germany
Mishi and Mashi go to Germany: Mishi and Mashi Visit Europe: Mishi and Mashi are sisters. They travel around Europe with their parents and explore different countries. In Germany, they travel on a fast train and visit different cities. They learn how chocolate is made and why there are so many statues of bears in Berlin. Find out what they do on the Octoberfest, and which fairy castle they visit. There is a hidden animal on each page, which is very popular in Germany. Find it, and you will learn many interesting facts about it!
Adelaide Moves to Germany: Join Adelaide on her adventure to Germany! Adelaide lives in a military family who moves to new places, often. Adelaide learns at an early age how to face adventures and that meeting new people, places, and things can be both scary and exciting!
Welcome to Germany with Sesame Street®: Welcome to Germany! Taste yummy German breads, shop at a Christmas market, and hike up tall mountains with your friends from Sesame Street. On this whirlwind tour, readers will learn about Germany's landscape, culture, people, and more.
If You Were Me and Lived in...Germany: A Child's Introduction to Cultures Around the World: Join Carole P. Roman when she visits the beautiful land of Germany in the newest book of her informative series. Learn about the varied customs and cultures. Travel to the central Europe to discover what you would eat and do for fun. See the land through the eyes of a youngster like you and understand what life is like in this exciting place.
Meals in Germany (Meals Around the World): In Meals in Germany, young readers will learn learn about the foods and cultural practices that make up mealtime in Germany. Vibrant, full-color photos and carefully leveled text engage beginning readers as they discover the fascinating culinary traditions of Germany.
Germany: A Book of Opposites (Board Book): Hello, Germany! This board book series pairs early learning concepts with colorful, stylish illustrations of the iconic art, architecture, food, and culture of places around the world. Both children and adults are sure to love these hip and charming books! In Germany, you can use words that are opposites to help you discover the country: hikers at the top and the bottom of the Alps, beautiful Black Forest trees that are near and far, and delicious Bavarian treats that are eaten and then gone.
Books about Famous Germans and People in Germany
Albert Einstein (Inspired Inner Genius): Today, Einstein is widely recognized as a genius and one of the greatest physicists in history, but things didn't start off that way. Einstein was slow at speech and spoke only from the age of 3. Despite his slow start, Einstein was always curious and imaginative. It was these qualities that eventually led to some of his craziest ideas and experiments. Some of his most famous inventions include the mass energy equivalence formula E = MC2, the theory of relativity and quantum theory.
Albert Einstein (Little People, BIG DREAMS): In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Albert Einstein, the legendary scientist. Little Albert grew up in Germany, where it took him four years to formulate his first word. He was fascinated by how objects worked and, although he didn’t love school, he loved physics and math books. His brilliant mind contemplated space and time, and he eventually came up with the theory of relativity. He shared his knowledge with the rest of the world, becoming the most original mind of the twentieth century. This fascinating book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the theoretical physicist’s life.
Meet Paul Klee (Meet the Artist): In Meet Paul Klee, you will meet a great color theorist and artist. Who better to show you how colors work together than an expert on color theory? What surprises will you find in his simple-looking paintings? Then, experiment with complementary colors and create your own surprises!
Alexander von Humboldt (Little People, BIG DREAMS): As a kid, Alexander wasn’t a great student. He had a naturally curious mind, but he saw the world differently to his teachers and fellow pupils, and just couldn’t quite fit in. But when he began collecting plants as an adult, Alexander realised he’d found his passion. From then on, he become a great explorer, travelling the world to document all kinds of plants and species. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the scientist.
Otto Von Bismarck: Iron Chancellor of Germany (Wicked History): The wicked ways of some of the most ruthless rulers to walk the earth are revealed in these thrilling biographies about men and women so monstrous, they make Frankenstein look like a sweetheart.
Children's Books about German Classical Music
Becoming Bach: For Johann Sebastian there was always music. His family had been musicians, or bachs as they were called in Germany, for 200 years. He always wanted to be a bach. As he grew, he saw patterns in everything. Patterns he would turn into melodies and song, eventually growing into one of the most important and celebrated musical composers of all time.
Bach's Goldberg Variations (Once Upon a Masterpiece): Johann Sebastian Bach created some of the most significant music in history, including A Keyboard Practice Consisting of an Aria with Thirty Variations for the Harpsichord—commonly known as the Goldberg Variations. Goldberg is Johann Gottlieb Goldberg, a young musician in the court of Count Keyserlingk, a Russian ambassador living in Dresden. It isn’t known for certain why Bach’s difficult composition was named for the young man, but Anna Harwell Celenza gives us one possible story based on extensive research.
Beethoven (Famous Children Series): As part of the "Famous Children Series," this delightful story recounts episodes from the childhood of Beethoven. The story of a children from a poor family in Bonn, and how his musical gifts helped him overcome his disadvantages. Lively, full-color illustrations on each page capture the spirit of his times.
Children's Books about Germany and Christmas
Cobweb Christmas: The Tradition of Tinsel: Set in Germany, this charming story asserts that curious spiders paying a visit to Grandma's tree are responsible for the tinsel tradition. Everybody loves Christmas at Tante's. The old lady decorates a wonderful tree and makes certain to have something for all who come to visit, be it the nearby village children or the shy animals of the pine forest. The only creatures Tante overlooks are the spiders she has swept out of her cottage while cleaning. But the curious spiders want to come inside and see Tante's tree, too. When a midnight visitor lets them into the old lady's home, they unknowingly spin Tante the very gift she has longed for—a gift that has inspired the draping of tinsel on Christmas trees ever since.
Christmas Season in Germany: 24 Tales for the Advent Season: In these 24 tales for the Advent season, for children starting at three, Heidi Rosenhof (Heidis-Kindergeschichten.de) invites everyone, whether young or old, to find a comfy spot and experience the wonders of the German Christmas season.
Christmas Around the World: Germany: Come explore the Christmas traditions of Germany. Discover German foods, celebrations, markets, how and when Christmas is celebrated, and so much more! From St. Nicholas to Krampus Nacht, this book is sure to engage you and your child in a world of amazing German Christmas traditions.
Christmas in Germany (Christmas Around the World): Tinsel, candles, and baked decorations called Lebkuchen hang from Christmas trees. Strings of lights decorate lampposts, houses, and stores. Saint Nicholas fills childrens shoes with toys and treats. Carolers walk from house to house singing Christmas songs, and bands play in town squares. These are the sights and sounds of Christmas in Germany. Come explore the many German traditions that bring people of this country together at Christmas.
Bonus! Souvenirs from Germany for Kids
Haribo gummy candies! If you can, visit the
Haribo factory shop in Bonn for the ultimate Haribo experience. If it's not in your itinerary, you'll still find Haribo gummies everywhere. Some of the best selections of Haribo can be found at the Kaufland supermarkets.
The Ludwig Van Beethoven teddy bear by Vosego is a high quality and thoughtful gift for a mom-to-be or newborn baby to start introducing them to classical music right away from birth. With seven tracks featuring Beethoven’s most well-loved compositions, Ludwig plush bear brings 40 minutes of exquisitely beautiful classical music. Carefully selected tracks represent Beethoven’s most recognized melodies making Ludwig a great introduction to the composer’s musical repertoire. Ludwig lets you and your baby enjoy the compositions made by one of the most influential classical music composers of all time.
If traveling to Germany in the winter, pick up a
Kaiser lamb wool foot muff for your travel stroller or get it delivered to your hotel so it's there when you arrive! The Kaiser lamb wool foot muffs are "made in Germany" and the best on the market. The extremely high quality is worth the price (and it's cheaper to buy it in Germany).
Mama Traveler Note: The Kaiser foot muff fits into the GB Pockit+ All City travel stroller (and the GB Pockit+ All City travel stroller works fine on cobblestone).
Comments
Post a Comment