Oh, and how could I forget Washington Irving?
I read over your post again, and saw that you wanted books, not authors. So I'd say my favorites are Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain, and Bracebridge Hall by Washington Irving. Tom Sawyer is not the best if you are looking for a moral example, but it is so much fun, and Twain's use of imagery and humor make for a very enjoyable read. Bracebridge Hall is actually the sequel to The Sketchbook, and takes place at an old country estate in England. It chronicles the events of life in and around the Hall from the perspective of an American Guest. Irving does a great job developing his characters, and uses a very subtle sense of humor. I found both to be delightful reads.