So, my top pre-school bedtime story-books, don't include any Beatrix Potter (beautifully illustrated but dull stories), Hungry Caterpillar (not even the illustrations are appealing), Winnie the Pooh (beautiful & clever stories but too wordy in my opinion - far better as a cartoon) or The Tiger Who Came to Tea (never did understand the big deal over this one) but instead includes books that me and my children love. In order to get on my list it has to appeal to the child and the adult as I feel strongly that if the adult doesn't love the book they won't read it with enthusiasm and gusto to engage the child fully. I expect a book to appeal on both content and illustrations - if it's not aesthetically appealing it likely won't even get picked off the shelf in the first place.

Narrowing it down to only 10 has been a challenge and I fully appreciate that this is taste based so not everyone will agree with me (and possibly some of you are already shocked that I don't like The Hungry Caterpillar!). However maybe, once you've thought about what would be on your list instead, you may be inspired to borrow or buy one of the books for the children in your life and give them a chance. Most of these authors are prolific and with very good reason - I've deliberately only chosen one book by each person but if you enjoy one why not explore the rest too.

These are in no particular order - that was just TOO hard!!!

Little Rabbit Foo Foo - Michael Rosen

My children absolutely adore this, they pick up so many details from the amusing illustrations and they often 'play' this book - one as the rabbit, the other as the fairy. My other favourite Michael Rosen in, probably predictably, 'We're Going on a Bear Hunt' and we love acting this one out, but I chose 'Little Rabbit Foo Foo' as more of a bedtime story and because it's not the obvious Michael Rosen.

Shark in the Park - Nick Sharratt

Nick Sharratt's bright illustrations are fabulous, especially for the very young and this peek-a-boo book is clever and amusing.

Room on the Broom - Julia Donaldson

Another amazing author with a huge repertoire to her name, Julia Donaldson is simply fantastic! People tend to choose The Gruffalo as being her best but, while I do adore Gruffalo too, I have a real soft spot for Room on the Broom. I also love Tabby McTat the Buskers Cat - all of her titles are worth a look and every kid's bookshelf should have at least one or two.

Each Peach Pear Plum - Janet & Allen Ahlberg

A true classic. Fun illustrations, sing song verse, things to spot - love it!

Is it Bedtime Wibbly Pig - Mick Inkpen

My kids adore this, Mick Inkpen's characters are cute and this story about bedtime procrastination will ring true to all parents out there!

Hairy MaClary's Bone - Lynley Dodd

You've probably noticed that I like 'poem' books and the Hairy MaClary series are probably the best examples there are. The rhymes trip of the tongue adding pace and excitement to the story and controlling the pace expertly. Again, I had to choose one and I think this is our household favourite.

Peace at Last - Jill Murphy

My son fell in love with this in nursery class so we got a copy and they still enjoy it - and as the wife of a snorer and a light sleeper I can relate to poor Mr Bear.

The Way Back Home - Oliver Jeffers

I adore Oliver Jeffers simple stories and charming illustrations and we have a selection of his books. They are all based around the same boy (simply called 'the boy') and gently and with humour cover subjects such as friendship, loneliness and co-operation. Simply charming for the adults and enjoyable for the children. The Way Back Home is my favourite because the kids love space at the moment!

Hungry Harry - Joanne Partis

Bright, cheerful illustrations and almost onomatopaeic language run through this little frog's hunt for dinner. Visually attractive and the perfect length/tone for a bedtime story.

The Hippo-not-amus - Tony & Jan Payne

A family favourite in our house, this funny, engaging tales covers the adventures of a little hippo who wants to be something more exciting. Great pictures and a funny, touching story.

So there you have it, my 10 favourites - what are yours?

By Jane Cowan