Over the last few years, it has really been an epic battle between Mo Willems and Tedd Arnold for the top spot, and both authors have been a dominant force on the list.
You really can't go wrong with either pick. Staff in our Children's Room at Richland Library Main say these chapter books remain popular because they're learning tools for first-time readers. They also help to spark confidence and enjoyment of reading.
On the advice of a staff member, I bought a Mo Willems book for my nephew, adding to his home library. I later found out the book was his favorite. He continued to pick it for bedtime stories (over and over and over again), and he even brought the book to his first haircut to alleviate any fears or tears.
There really is something magical about these books - when you see a child's eyes light up. There's something even more special when they read them aloud themselves for the first time. #memorylane