Books are popular companions on sunny and rainy summer days alike. Reading has positive developmental benefits for children, so summer reading has been a childhood staple for many generations. But when summer gets busy, it can be difficult to find time to research new books.
We wanted to suggest a few summer reads for kids. If you’re like us, you might enjoy these books as much as your kids do!
- The World Needs More Purple People by Kristen Bell and Benjamin Hart, illustrated by Daniel Wiseman
Your kids might recognize Kristen Bell’s voice as Anna from Frozen, and you might know her from The Good Place or Veronica Mars. In The World Needs More Purple People, Bell, and co-author Benjamin Hart explore what it means to be a “purple person.” The story is complete with lots of purple illustrations, silly jokes, and feel-good affirmations.
- Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison
This collection of short biographies complemented by beautiful illustrations highlights Black women who impacted the world. Grade-schoolers can easily pace themselves through the book, as each woman’s story stands alone on a single page.
- You Matter by Christian Robinson
In this new title, Robinson uses his artwork to illustrate the value all living things bring to the world. He delivers a simple message: you matter. This book is ideal for read-aloud storytime!
- Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak