Usborne Books has classic books that are very simple for young kids.  Once they understand the story line, it will not seem as daunting to read the original as they get older.  I have since learned that there are many other lines that sell early versions such as Classic Starts.

If you still need a little motivation to get into these brilliant works that have been around longer then we have, check out the book The Thomas Jefferson Education.  It was a huge motivator to me to read myself as well as teach my kids.  I recently finished Jane Austin's Pride and Predjudice and will soon be reading Laddie.