Best Summer Books at Every Reading Level

Looking for some ways to encourage kids to continue reading this summer? Keeping a variety of books around is one way to nudge them in the right direction. And so we have created this quick list with some recommended summer reading — for every reading level! Check out our favorites, and be sure to take advantage of our current Summer Sale … 25% off your entire purchase when you enter promo code SUM2018 at checkout. Everyone should enjoy a good book, including your little ones.

Summer Reading for Kids

Kids who don’t read in the months between school years are at risk of what is known as the “summer slide.” Essentially, the long break from reading means that they enter the new school year with lesser reading abilities. Not only is reading a great way to pass the lazy days of summer, but it is also important to children’s academic performance.

Whether you need reading recommendations for preschoolers or teenagers, we have got you covered!

Hello Hello

Beautifully illustrated, the latest release from award-winning author Brendan Wenzel is a delight. Beginning with black-and-white illustrations before evolving to vibrantly colored graphics, Hello Hello celebrates the differences and similarities between species across the animal kingdom. The book rhythmically introduces the concept of endangered species in a completely child-friendly way. And let’s face it, kids loves creatures.

A Dog Named Doug

Once there was a dog named Doug … A fun read-aloud book with lots of alliteration, A Dog Named Doug is a book that flows beautifully as it tells the tale of the adventurous Doug. To avoid giving away the story’s plot, let’s just say that Doug really likes to dig!

Pigs Make Me Sneeze

This best-selling children’s book is one of our favorites in the Elephant & Piggie series. When Gerald the Elephant can’t stop sneezing, he’s certain that it must be because he is allergic to pigs — a serious threat to his friendship with Piggie. Oh no!

Adults and children alike will laugh at this hilarious and heartwarming story, accompanied by simple but engaging illustrations.

Grand Canyon

Home to an astonishing variety of plants and animals that have lived and evolved within its walls for millennia, the Grand Canyon is much more than just a hole in the ground. Follow a father and daughter as they make their way through the cavernous wonder, discovering life both present and past.

Weave in and out of time as perfectly placed die cuts show you that a fossil today was a creature much long ago, perhaps in a completely different environment. Complete with a spectacular double gatefold, an intricate map and extensive back matter.

Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams

This picture book biography is as unique and well made as it is stirring. The story of the Williams sisters and how they came to dominate their sport, in spite of numerous obstacles, will leave young readers (athletes or not) inspired. The beautiful illustrations and subject matter make this a book that will appeal to a range of age ranges.

The Wild Robot

This new release explores the story of a robot who wakes up to find herself alone in the wilderness. A good option for middle grades, this thought-provoking book comes with an added bonus … After finishing this one, the sequel, The Wild Robot Escapes, can be introduced to maintain momentum and further encourage summer reading.

I Love You, Michael Collins

Another good choice for middle grades, I Love You, Michael Collins is a historical fiction set in 1969. The U.S.A. is preparing for the Moon landing and when 10-year-old Mamie’s class is assigned to write letters to the astronauts who will go on the mission, Mamie makes the unique choice to write to Michael Collins (rather than Neil Armstrong or Buzz Aldrin like the rest of her classmates). It is a charming story, and one that also explores social and family dynamics, set against the subplot of the Apollo 11 mission.

Bumblebee at Super Hero High

The sixth installment of the DC Super Hero Girls series, this 208-page book is action-packed. Well suited for readers between the ages of 9 and 12, the story follows Bumblebee as she joins iconic female superheroes like Wonder Woman and Batgirl at Super Hero High.

Have you already read some books on this list or want to recommend some of your favorites that we left out? Drop a note in the comments section!