I first read Heidi a slightly watered down, but beautifully illustrated abridged children's edition I received as a Christmas gift when I was about 8. I've read it more than any other of the 10 books in that collection. I received an 1915 copy of the "original" text (unabridged English)a year or two later and devoured it just as readily. I re-read it frequently (I'm now 16) and find something different within it every time. The subtle humor, Heidi's endearing antics, the moving spiritual element (God is GOOD!) and the beautifully crafted relationships are simply amazing.I cringe at some books I read while babysitting--Watered down, overly silly and frankly stupid books. While I can't admit to having read nothing but classics, I think there is a huge need for my generation to love classic children's literature like Heidi.