There is a certain appeal of children’s literature. The books are technically catered towards children, written for children and therefore have to be somewhat light and appropriate, however the content is usually quite mature. A good friend once told me that teachers perhaps encourage children to read these kinds of books at the elementary school age because who knows when they’ll read once they grow up? He’s still one of the best readers I know. Better than me.

The plotlines may seem relatively simple, but they are equally impactful. The story has to be written in a way that is easy, yet difficult to understand, making it open to analysis and interpretation. There is such an interesting, intricate balance in children’s literature. Fascinated, I decided to revisit two classics that had been introduced to me as a kid to see what I think of them now, just for the fun of it. Spoiler alert: these stories age even better with time.

Holes

I had always found this plot so unique: a group of delinquent boys are sent to a camp to dig holes for “character building,” only to discover that there is more than what meets the eye. The beginning is as dry as the land they’re digging in, which perhaps might be the point of it all. But the plot thickens! I personally loved the character of Kissin’ Kate Barlow. She could’ve really granted herself an entire prequel story!

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Every time I find myself in a place of despair, I think to Charlie Bucket winning the golden ticket. Against all the odds, a stroke of sheer luck transported him to the opportunity of a lifetime. By sticking to his humble values, he was granted the prize of a lifetime. Amazing, right? We can all only wish for luck, though we must remember to be our kind, genuine selves in the present and beyond. Those are values money can’t buy.