The post Giddy Up, Readers! The Best Horse Books for Kids Ages 8 – 12 appeared first on Brightly.
]]>None of these horses were mine — I never did get the proverbial pony — but I loved them all the same. At 8, 10, and 12 years old, I rarely felt more free and at one with myself than on the back of a horse, galloping alongside one of my best friends. They kept me grounded. They kept me busy. And they kept me more or less out of trouble.
For the horse-loving kid in your life, the next best thing to riding one of these magnificent creatures is reading about them in books. Here are a few well-loved horse books to get them started.
no no 9780448462059 Magic Ponies Series by Sue Bentley, illustrated by Angela Swan
Horse-loving kids will adore this series about a magical pony who befriends a girl in the real world. Each story in the series features a different girl who meets the pony at a time when she needs it most. These sweet books are filled with realistic scenarios of friends, family, and growing up.
9780679813439 The Black Stallion by Walter Farley
The Black Stallion is a classic and for good reason. First published in 1941, the story is timelessly engaging. As a boy, Alec Ramsey is shipwrecked on a deserted island with a wild horse. Alec and the Black Stallion come to build a singular bond that lasts for the ages — and for countless sequels.
9780593095485 Horse Girl by Carrie Seim
Wills is so excited to start her horse riding training at the prestigious Oakwood Riding Academy. But Amara and her friends don’t make it easy for Wills. Luckily with her horse Clyde at her side, she can tackle anything; mean girls, family problems, and even boys.
9780735230613 Creaky Acres: A Graphic Novel by Calista Brill and Nilah Magruder, illustrated by Nilah Magruder
Nora is less than thrilled to leave her suburban neighborhood and move to a poor, rural area for her mom’s new job. But as Nora and her horse settle into their new lives at a new barn, they are pleasantly surprised. Soon, Nora makes friends and learns how to be a leader in the ways that matter most.
9781536209303 Pony on the Twelfth Floor by Polly Faber, illustrated by Sarah Jennings
Kizzy has always wanted a pony, but she lives in the city. Then, one day, she finds a pony happily gobbling up all the donuts in the supermarket. This is the opportunity Kizzy has been dreaming of, but can she keep the pony hidden in her twelfth-floor apartment without anyone finding out?
9780375847325 Horse Diaries Series by Catherine Hapka, illustrated by Ruth Sanderson
Fans of the Dear America series will love these books on horses and history. Written from the horse’s point of view, these stories cover a wide range of history and geography, tracking horses in Iceland circa 1000 AD, 16th century Spain, 9th century Arabia, and more.
9781782693963 City of Horses by Frances Moloney
Kids who fantasize about wild horses will love this heartfelt middle grade novel. Misty’s family moves to the other side of town when her dad loses his job. At first, Misty tries to hide her family’s circumstances from her old friends, but it doesn’t take long before she finds a new passion: The free-roaming horses around her home. Along with a new friend, Misty does everything in her power to help the animals and keep them safe from a rising threat.
9780141321035 Black Beauty by Anna Sewell
Another classic, this one written and set in 19th century London and told from the horse’s point of view. When I read it, I didn’t fully understand this book as a treatise against animal cruelty — though kids know injustice when they see it (or read about it). While various versions of Black Beauty are out there, strive to find Sewell’s original, which helps teach children the true meaning of kindness.
9780553508147 Pony by R. J. Palacio
Prepare to have your heart broken and put back together again with this novel from the bestselling author of Wonder. This extraordinary story is about a boy searching for his kidnapped father, the ghost accompanying him, and the pony acting as his guide. It’s the can’t-miss book for horse lovers.
9781368007580 Sylvia Doe and the 100-Year Flood by Robert Beatty
From the bestselling author of the Serafina and Willa of the Wood series comes a new adventure about a horse-loving girl and a mysterious flood. A devastating storm causes widespread destruction and flooding, ushering in a collection of magical and mysterious objects, including a boy. This timely and poignant novel is set in the North Carolina mountains, where Sylvia searches for a way to save the home and animals she loves.
9781524718145 Riding Lessons (An Ellen & Ned Book) by Jane Smiley
In this wonderful series from bestselling author Jane Smiley, readers follow spunky Ellen as she begins taking riding lessons and forms an instant bond with a colt named Ned. Occasionally Ellen’s feisty character gets her into trouble, and she isn’t allowed to go to the ranch. But when Ellen’s life gets turned upside down, it’s her friend Ned that she needs to turn to the most.
9781101939789 The Secret Horses of Briar Hill by Megan Shepherd
There is something magical happening up at Briar Hill hospital. Winged horses live in the mirrors, but only Emmaline can see them. While exploring the gardens, she finds Foxfire, a white horse with a broken wing. Only Emmaline can save him from the Black Horse, an evil creature who hunts in darkness. This remarkable book is sure to find its place among the classics.
9780593225257 The Dust Bowl by Michelle Jabès Corpora
This book is part of the American Horse Tales series that highlights the unique relationships between young girls and their horses. The Dust Bowl takes place in Oklahoma in the 1930s and follows a young girl named Ginny, her horse Thimble, and her family who are all dealing with the hardships of the Great Depression. In order to survive, Ginny’s dad decides that they must sell their horse, but Ginny makes the brave decision to stay by her horse’s side and follow Thimble to California.
9781465445872 Pocket Genius: Horses by DK
If fiction isn’t your child’s thing, not to worry — there are plenty of fact-based, encyclopedic guides through the equine world, including this handy (har har) pocket-sized book, which features more than 125 breeds.
9780525644774 The Perfect Horse by Elizabeth Letts
This remarkable young readers’ adaptation tells the story of a small group of American troops during World War II. Against all odds, these soldiers went behind enemy lines to rescue the world’s finest purebred horses from Hitler’s grasp. It’s a riveting story of courage and bravery that animal lovers and history buffs will enjoy.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2016 and updated in 2025.
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]]>yes no Picture Books 9780593622360 The Day the Crayons Made Friends by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers
The creative duo behind the #1 New York Times bestselling book, The Day the Crayons Quit, delivers a colorful new adventure for kids. When Duncan finds his crayons missing again, he quickly discovers they have all left to fulfill their dreams. From becoming a chef in the play kitchen to tending a flock of dog biscuits, each crayon finds adventure and friendship in unexpected places.
9780593206096 Marianne the Maker by Kelly Corrigan and Claire Corrigan Lichty, illustrated by George Sweetland
Although Marianne’s dad signed her up for soccer, she is an inventor at heart. A fake illness gets her out of playing the sport and frees her up to do what she really wants — create something new! With the help of her little dog, Marianne sets out to build a magnificent contraption, complete with a parachute, communications system, and a helmet for safety. This adorable picture book will inspire children to embrace their inventive side!
9780593965405 The Biggest Dog in the Book by Ben Lerwill, illustrated by Mark Chambers
Get ready for a cuteness overload! This book compares the sizes of adorable pooches, from the tiniest breeds to the largest. Furry, four-legged friends play, sniff, and run across the pages as they wait to see which one will be the biggest dog in the book. It’s a must-read for dog lovers!
9798217038725 In the Wild by Zadie Smith and Nick Laird, illustrated by Magenta Fox
When Kit heads off to camp, Maude the guinea pig goes with her. Soon, Maude finds herself on a whirlwind adventure in the great outdoors. Even though there are a lot of dangers in the wilderness for a little creature, she makes new friends and uses her signature judo moves to stay safe. This is an excellent read for kids who love itty-bitty critters.
9780593404607 Flat Cat: The Class Pet by Tara Lazar, illustrated by Pete Oswald
Flat Cat becomes the coolest cat in school in this hilarious new picture book. When Flat Cat stows away in a neighbor’s backpack, he ends up at the noisy, bustling school. The children use Flat Cat as everything from a paper airplane to a bathroom pass, and it doesn’t take long before he is looking for a way to escape. Kids will laugh out loud at Flat Cat’s quirky misadventure!
9780593691335 Iris Shines by Stacy Ebert
A young girl named Iris knows she is destined for the spotlight. She loves being the center of attention. But when her younger brother shows a talent for acting, Iris sees her dreams of stardom going up in smoke. Thankfully, the siblings soon learn that there’s room for both of them to shine.
9780593649626 Shoes Off, Please by Helena Ku Rhee, illustrated by Myo Yim
As Korean Americans, Mina’s family has a “shoes-off” policy inside their home. But when Mina invites her friends over, she feels awkward asking them to remove their shoes. With guidance from her mother, Mina learns the reason behind the shoes-off tradition — and how to share it with her friends.
9780593645215 Tenacious Won’t Give Up by Pam Vaughan, illustrated by Leanne Hatch
Tenacious is a persistent young girl who is used to working hard to get what she wants. But the upcoming Wheel Parade presents her with her toughest challenge yet — learning to ride a bike. This beautifully illustrated picture book encourages kids to be resilient and persist past obstacles that prevent them from reaching their goals.
9780593648308 Willow and the Wildflowers by Matthew Schufman
Willow the bear rarely leaves her home. But when she wants to attend a wildflower festival, she must venture outside her house — and her comfort zone. Young readers will love seeing Willow tackle each challenge that comes her way. This sweet picture book is perfect for fans of Scaredy Squirrel!
9780593858882 Ruby René Always Gets Her Way by Ashley Iman, illustrated by Gladys Jose
Ruby loves hosting the morning announcements at her school. But when she gets an unexpected co-host, she finds herself butting heads with the newcomer. However, both girls learn the value of listening to and valuing each other’s input.
yes no Chapter Books & Middle Grade 9780593696385 Encounter at Owl Rock by Rucker Moses
This novel has everything young readers could want: aliens, corrupt corporations, and a mysterious disappearance. Cypress is an aspiring film director, and his twin brother, Oakley, and best friend, Jaz, star in all his movies. When Oak vanishes into a granite formation called Owl Rock, Cy and Jaz must outwit the company that owns the land and find out what really happened to Oak.
9780593649985 On Guard! by Cassidy Wasserman
After a best friend breakup and her parents’ messy divorce, Grace hopes to find friendship and acceptance in her middle school’s fencing club. Readers who enjoy graphic novels and realistic fiction about growing up and self-discovery will enjoy this book.
9780593709344 Grumpy Monkey School Stinks! by Suzanne Lang, illustrated by Max Lang
Kids who loved the Grumpy Monkey picture books will be thrilled to progress into graphic novels alongside their favorite curmudgeon. In this early graphic novel, Grumpy Monkey heads back to school, where he learns useful information that allows him to help a turtle having tummy troubles.
9780593703748 AJ Torres and the Treasure of Captain Grayshark by José Pablo Iriarte
The Goonies meets Haunted Mansion in this spooky story about ghosts, pirates, and buried treasure. Best friends AJ and Jayden discover an ancient gold coin on the beach in Miami. Convinced it came from a legendary pirate treasure, the boys enlist the help of a ghost expert named Andrea and strike out to find the rest of the gold on a nearby island. But the pirates still roam the island — as ghosts — and will do anything to keep their treasure hidden.
yes no YA 9780593650615 A Forgery of Fate by Elizabeth Lim
From the New York Times bestselling author of Six Crimson Cranes comes another breathtaking fantasy novel that expertly blends Western fairy tales with Asian folklore. Truyan Saigas is a gifted art forger who can paint the future. When her father disappears and her family falls into ruin, she agrees to marry an underwater dragon lord and help him overthrow the Dragon King.
9780593302316 Kill Creatures by Rory Power
If you love dark thrillers with unreliable narrators, you won’t want to miss Rory Power’s spooky new novel that blends reality with paranoia. One year ago, Nan killed her three best friends and got away with it. When one of the dead girls reappears — alive — Nan will do anything to protect her secret. The only problem is that someone already knows what she did.
9781984816733 Lady or the Tiger by Heather M. Herrman
Grab your cowboy hat and boot spurs because this young adult thriller will take you on a wild ride! In 1886, Belle King murdered her abusive husband and turned herself in to the authorities. But when he shows up at the jail to take her home, she knows something darker is going on. This captivating story will keep young adult readers glued to the page through every twist and turn!
9780593813720 Among Ghosts by Rachel Hartman
Fans of the bestselling fantasy novel Seraphina will love this ghost story set in the same world. When he sees a ghost, Charl’s relatively peaceful life quickly unravels, and he finds himself on the run from a mercenary dragon and living in an abandoned abbey. He soon learns that ghosts and an elderly nun with a secretive past still occupy the abbey. If you love slow-burn fantasy stories with dragons, ghosts, and mystery, add this one to your reading list!
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]]>The post Legitimately Funny Books To Read Aloud With Your Kids appeared first on Brightly.
]]>I can’t count all the great children’s books that have made me smile or even tear up over the years, but I could easily count with just a few fingers the titles that have almost made me shoot milk out of my nose.
If you’re looking to share a few belly laughs while reading with your young ones, here are 11 great kids’ books that really know how to bring the funny.
RELATED: Hilarious New Read-Alouds To Share With Kids
no no 9780803741713 The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak
Before you ask, yes, there really are no pictures in this kids’ book. The author, B.J. Novak from “The Office,” admits upfront that a book with no pictures might seem “boring” and “serious,” but he quickly reveals how much power words actually have. “Here is how books work,” he tells us, “Everything the words say, the person reading the book has to say.” And Novak has a lot of fun making the reader do just that, writing lines like “Ba-Dooongy Face!” and “I am a monkey who taught myself to read.” It’s a genius concept and your kids will love watching you submit to the book’s fiendishly funny whims.
9780593406380 The Book That Almost Rhymed by Omar Abed, illustrated by Hatem Aly
A young boy has written a rhyming story, but when he starts to read it aloud, his younger sister interjects her own (non-rhyming) ideas! At first, he is annoyed, but as he integrates his sister’s suggestions, he realizes that the unlikely collaboration made the story even better. Young readers will giggle over every silly interruption and non-rhyming line in this adorable picture book.
9780763656003 We Found a Hat by Jon Klassen
Jon Klassen is the Tig Notaro of hat-based humor. His deadpan game is so strong, SO strong, and he’s brought his deceptively dead-on timing to a trilogy of just ridiculously funny picture books. The simple premises are conveyed by the titles — I Want My Hat Back, This Is Not My Hat, and (finally) We Found A Hat — but Klassen’s knack with visual humor make them all pure comedy gold.
9781536229677 Mr. Fox’s Game of No! by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka
Young readers will love trying to beat Mr. Fox at his game. As Mr. Fox asks questions, you must answer with “No” even when the correct answer is “Yes!” Say the wrong thing, and you have to start the book from the beginning. This interactive and giggle-worthy picture book will have kids in stitches!
9780375866012 17 Things I’m Not Allowed to Do Anymore http://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/124091/17-things-im-not-allowed-to-do-anymore-by-jenny-offill-illustrated-by-nancy-carpenter/?ref=PRH06C9ECE222&aid=randohouseinc22957-20&linkid=PRH06C9ECE222 by Jenny Offill, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter
Your children will adore this book and it will make you very, VERY nervous. (Fair warning.) A young girl has begrudgingly created an illustrated list of 17 things that she’s never allowed to do again. 17 things that will have you wondering “WAIT, she actually did that stuff?!” The scenarios are so wicked, funny, and filled with brilliantly sadistic kid logic that you’ll find your children laughing way too hard and find yourself wondering, “Maybe I should’ve read them Goodnight Moon tonight.”
9780593616673 Don’t Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson, illustrated by Dan Santat
Nature lovers will laugh out loud at this absurd guide to fish and the reasons why they aren’t trustworthy creatures. From their diabolical eating habits to their highly questionable “schools,” readers will learn that fish are far less trustworthy than previously thought. The more harmless they appear, the more suspicious you need to be!
9780763641689 Interrupting Chicken by David Ezra Stein
This book, all about bedtime reading, might actually be too funny to read at bedtime. A little chicken wants her daddy to read her a bedtime story, but she can’t stand to watch her beloved fairy tale characters make mistakes. So she interrupts and interrupts and interrupts — all in an attempt to rewrite her favorite stories. Stein’s book shows kids that being an active participant in storytelling can be both exciting and very, very funny.
9780593690833 It Started with a P by Brittany Pomales, illustrated by Andrew Joyner
When King Liam has a dream that something starting with a P will ruin his birthday party, he banishes everything that begins with that letter. Suddenly, everything from pizza and piñatas to presents and people must go. Readers of all ages can’t help but chuckle at the silly king and his misguided attempt to save his birthday party by inadvertently ruining it.
9780803739086 Lion Lessons by Jon Agee
It’s common knowledge that there are seven steps to becoming a lion. (You didn’t know? Where have you been?) When a rather sheepish boy decides to train with a Lion Expert — that is, a lion — he’s put through his paces: Looking Fierce, Prowling Around, Roaring, Blowing Out That Luxurious Mane, and the like. Kids will love earning their own stripes (or roars?) with the ultimate knowledge that Looking Out for Your Friends is the bravest step of all.
9781664300507 Hank Goes Honk by Maudie Powell-Tuck, illustrated by Duncan Beedie
Hank is a rude, self-obsessed goose who interrupts conversations, pops other animals’ balloons, and only talks about himself. His rude behavior drives everyone else away. In an effort to make friends, Hank tries to improve his behavior. However, he soon realizes that bad habits are hard to break. Vibrant illustrations, hilarious noises, and rib-tickling humor will make this picture book a favorite for readers of all ages.
9781984852090 The Bear Ate Your Sandwich by Julia Sarcone-Roach
The cover alone is enough to get young readers laughing about this one. Listen, your sandwich is gone — a bear ate it! It was definitely a bear. No doubt about it, 100% a bear. The hilarious story of the bear’s journey to said sandwich is so absorbing, your kids won’t start wondering about a duplicitous narrator until the unexpected, uproarious end.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.
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]]>The post The 50 Best Books for <br>5- and 6-Year-Olds appeared first on Brightly.
]]>No matter where your child is on this developmental continuum, here you’ll discover the best books to encourage their love of reading. Each book has been carefully selected by our group of experts.
Since we also think that finding books in a series is like discovering buried treasure, we’ve put *asterisks* next to the titles that are part of a larger series.
So whether your 5- or 6-year-old is building their reading foundation with picture books or reading chapter books on their own, here are our go-to books to entice, entertain, and educate.
Heading out to your local library or bookstore? You can download the full version of the list here.
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Sharing a story with your child is always worth it. Whether they can read independently or not, reading aloud is a special experience. It also helps to build their literacy foundations and keep them engaged with reading.
It’s a good idea to keep picture books in the mix even as your child’s reading skills grow, as they offer kids a greater variety of reading choices and have a strong visual appeal.
This list of picture books contains a variety of genres, kid-appealing topics, captivating illustrations, and diverse characters. Best of all, they’re well written and kids love them.
9780593406380 The Book That Almost Rhymed by Omar Abed, illustrated by Hatem Aly 9780763619619 The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds 9780399257742 Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson 9780593564691 Piper Chen Sings by Phillipa Soo and Maris Pasquale Doran, illustrated by Qin Leng 9780670827596 The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka, illustrated by Lane Smith 9781101998632 Betty Bunny Loves Chocolate Cake by Michael Kaplan, illustrated by Stephane Jorisch 9780593462911 I’m Sorry You Got Mad by Kyle Lukoff, illustrated by Julie Kwon 9780593203255 Something, Someday by Amanda Gorman, illustrated by Christian Robinson 9780525707752 The Serious Goose by Jimmy Kimmel 9780593380062 Can I Be Your Dog? by Troy Cummings 9780763689032 Interrupting Chicken* by David Ezra Stein 9780593810965 Don’t Think of Tigers by Alex Latimer 9780670451494 Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey 9780451469540 Night Animals by Gianna Marino 9780593619131 The Truth About the Couch by Adam Rubin, illustrated by Liniers 9780593661345 Home in a Lunchbox by Cherry Mo 9780593697894 Good Night Thoughts by Max Greenfield, illustrated by James Serafino 9781426310096 National Geographic Book of Animal Poetry by J. Patrick Lewis 9781536202908 Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall 9780593703526 Rocket Says Look Up!* by Nathan Bryon, illustrated by Dapo Adeola 9780593693254 Papilio by Ben Clanton, Corey R. Tabor and Andy Chou Musser 9780593203552 Over, Bear! Under, Where? by Julie Hedlund, illustrated by Michael Slack yes yes Beginning Readers
It’s exciting when your child starts to read! Now they’re learning sight words, or words to know at a glance, and the books they’re reading contain these words. At this stage, it’s helpful for them to read books that map to their background knowledge or areas of interest.
Beginning reading books start with a few simple words or phrases per page. As your child grows in their ability, the difficulty increases. The phrases become sentences and eventually paragraphs. Start with the easier beginning books first and adjust as your child progresses.
If you’re curious about the specific reading level of a book, you can check its level here or ask your child’s teacher.
9781524792442 Uh-Oh, Rollo!* by Reed Duncan, illustrated by Keith Frawley 9780140544572 Froggy Gets Dressed* by Jonathan London, illustrated by Frank Remkiewicz 9781536204278 See the Cat: Three Stories About a Dog* by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka 9781423102953 Today I Will Fly! – An Elephant & Piggie Book* by Mo Willems 9781524791964 I Will Race You Through This Book! by Jonathan Fenske 9780394900209 Go, Dog. Go! by P.D. Eastman 9781524718664 Tyrannosaurus Rex (StoryBots) by Storybots 9781101918548 The Spider* by Elise Gravel 9780593646236 Gertrude Gish on a Dish on a Fish by Sarah Hwang 9780593483169 How to Love a Pony by Michelle Meadows, illustrated by Sawyer Cloud 9780823460106 The Best Worst Camp Out Ever by Joe Cepeda 9780823459100 The Lost Mitten by Jannie Ho 9781984895608 I Love Being Me! by Mechal Renee Roe 9780736431200 A Tale of Two Sisters (Disney Frozen) by Melissa Lagonegro, illustrated by RH Disney yes yes Early Chapter Books & Graphic Novels
 
Chapter books are the Holy Grail for growing readers. Kids want so badly to be like the big kids. But don’t rush. Joy can easily turn to frustration if your child isn’t ready. When they are ready, we think they’ll devour these books.
We’ve vetted our list to include books with boys, girls, robots, magic, diverse characters, and child-friendly topics. Even better, all of these books are in a series. So if they like one, your child has more to read by the same author.
9781524701611 Purrmaids #1: The Scaredy Cat* by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, illustrated by Vivien Wu 9780593643938 Shark and Bot (A Graphic Novel)* by Brian Yanish 9780593123300 Pizza and Taco: Who’s the Best?* by Stephen Shaskan 9780593645635 Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus: The Graphic Novel* by Barbara Park, illustrated by Honie Beam, adapted by Colleen AF Venable 9781984895837 Donut Feed the Squirrels* by Mika Song 9780593304921 Ballet Bunnies #1: The New Class* by Swapna Reddy, illustrated by Binny Talib 9780593427781 Super Magic Boy: I Am a Dinosaur* by Jarod Roselló 9780803740884 Dory Fantasmagory* by Abby Hanlon 9780763659547 Bink and Gollie* by Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee, illustrated by Tony Fucile 9780142419885 EllRay Jakes Is Not a Chicken* by Sally Warner, illustrated by Jamie Harper 9780679824114 Magic Tree House #1: Dinosaurs Before Dark* by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Sal Murdocca 9780593464601 Shark Princess* by Nidhi Chanani 9780763622701 Mercy Watson to the Rescue* by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Chris Van Dusen 9780593699768 Pencil & Eraser: We Have a Dull-Emma!* by Jenny Alvarado
Get the printable version of the list.
Explore our 50 Best series to get great recommendations for other ages.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2025.
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]]>The post 30 Great LGBTQ+ Picture Books for Kids appeared first on Brightly.
]]>And of course, these books aren’t just for families with a direct connection to LGBTQ+ issues; everyone can use these books’ messages of unconditional love and acceptance.
no no 9780525554226 Love Makes a Family by Sophie Beer
This book shows that it doesn’t matter what your family looks like, the only thing that makes a family a family, is love! Each page showcases bright illustrations of diverse families doing special activities together, from baking a cake to finding a lost shoe. Your little one will love looking through the pages to see their own family reflected, and of course feel the love your family shares together.
(Ages 0 – 3)
9780593222768 Families Belong by Dan Saks, illustrated by Brooke Smart
Families Belong is a sweet look at the unconditional love within a family. The beautiful illustrations and rhyming text of families singing together, reading together, and going on a picnic together, feels like a warm hug. This one will be a comforting favorite for both children and parents.
(Ages 0 – 3)
9780593711767 Pride Is Love by Dano Moreno, illustrated by Nakul P.
When a young girl gets frustrated making a colorful flower crown for the local Pride parade, her two dads remind her that it’s okay to make mistakes. Pride Is Love reminds us we are all perfect just the way we are and we are all worthy of love!
(Ages 0 – 3)
9780525580126 My Two Moms and Me by Michael Joosten, illustrated by Izak Zenou
This sweet board book features a diverse array of families with lesbian mothers going about their daily routines, including playdates, pool-dates, and bedtime reading. Published in 2019 with artwork by an acclaimed fashion illustrator, it’s a welcome follow-up to Heather Has Two Mommies. Don’t miss My Two Dads and Me by the same creators!
(Ages 0 – 3)
9781582462622 Daddy, Papa, and Me by Leslea Newman, illustrated by Carol Thompson
Like the above author-illustrator duo, Leslea Newman and Carol Thompson add their unique touch to the rainbow-family compendium with Daddy, Papa, and Me and Mommy, Mama, and Me. Rhythmic text and charming illustrations make these board books a must-have for all families.
(Ages 0 – 3)
9780593807859 My Little Golden Book About Pride by Kyle Lukoff, illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan
This nonfiction Little Golden Book shares the history of Pride, from the 1969 Stonewall Rebellion to the creation of the Pride flag and the meaning behind each color. Colorful, expressive illustrations pair beautifully with Lukoff’s message of inclusivity and love.
(Ages 2 – 5)
9780593659496 I Think We Can! by G. M. King, illustrated by Jill Howarth
Visit the pride parade with this vibrant and colorful book. Filled with anticipation and excitement, The Little Engine That Could travels to the pride parade, but an untimely breakdown makes her worry that she will miss all the fun. Bright colors, simple text, and the familiar character make this story an excellent choice for little ones.
(Ages 2 – 5)
9781984815521 Téo’s Tutu by Maryann Jacob Macias, illustrated by Alea Marley
As Téo gets ready for his first dance recital, he makes one of the biggest (and most exciting) decisions of his life—what outfit to wear! Even though he’s nervous, Téo’s parents and teachers give him the encouragement he needs to choose the best costume for his special day. Dancers of all ages will adore this sweet story of self-acceptance and affirmation.
(Ages 3 – 5)
9780744063172 ABC Pride by Louie Stowell and Elly Barnes, illustrated by Amy Phelps
Teach your child inclusivity, acceptance, and the alphabet in this colorful picture book! They’ll learn that A is for “acceptance,” K is for “kindness,” and O is for “out,” among other lessons. Don’t miss this standout LGBTQ+ primer!
(Ages 3 – 5)
9780593693988 Papa’s Coming Home by Chasten Buttigieg, illustrated by Dan Taylor
Jojo and Rosie can’t wait to welcome Papa home from a trip. With help from Daddy, they make signs, bake a cake, and pack the car up with all of Papa’s favorite things. It isn’t until after the family is reunited that they realize there is no room in the car for Papa! This debut picture book by teacher and activist Chasten Buttigieg is an affirming look at a loving queer family, drawing inspiration from his own life with husband Pete Buttigieg.
(Ages 3 – 7)
9780823454594 Tuesday Is Daddy’s Day by Elliot Kreloff
A little girl splits her time between her mom’s house and her father’s apartment, which he shares with his partner. She loves her predictable routine, so she is upset when her mom picks her up from school on Daddy’s day. However, when Daddy arrives with a new puppy in tow, she learns that not all surprises are bad.
(Ages 3 – 7)
9781536211511 Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle by Nina LaCour, illustrated by Kaylani Juanita
Most children can relate to this heartfelt story about a girl who misses her mom. While Mommy is away on a work trip, Mama comforts the girl and distracts her with trips to the library and movie theater. But life isn’t quite the same until Mommy returns and reunites the family.
(Ages 3 – 7)
9780593462515 Family is Family by Melissa Marr, illustrated by Marcos Almada Rivero
Little Chick walks to school with his two moms and notices the different families along the way. Even though they are all different sizes and configurations, Little Chick loves his family just as it is. Charming illustrations and the heartwarming message make this an excellent choice for back-to-school time or anytime.
(Ages 3 – 7)
9780399558009 Honey & Leon Take the High Road by Alan Cumming, illustrated by Grant Shaffer
Theater and film star Alan Cumming and his husband Grant Shaffer were inspired to chronicle the adventures of their rescue dogs during their dads’ travels. It turns out, Honey and Leon tail their dads and rescue them at every turn. In this adventure, the pups tail their dads to Scotland. But when Honey falls in love with a Scottish dog named Coll, can Leon keep their dads out of trouble all on his own?
(Ages 3 – 7)
9780593571828 The Bi Book by A.J. Irving, illustrated by Cynthia Alonso
This sweet book is a study in the prefix “bi,” which often means “two”– bicycle (two wheels), biped (two feet), and bilingual (two languages). Gently, Irving also invites readers to explore the meaning of “bi” in the word bisexual, which is thoughtfully defined as hearts that love in many different ways. With simple text and gorgeous illustrations, this affirming introduction to bisexuality is a must-have for any home, school, or library bookshelf.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9780593752586 Tío and Tío by Ross Mathews and Dr. Wellinthon García-Mathews, illustrated by Tommy Doyle
This heartwarming and hilarious story is based on Ross Mathews and Dr. Wellinthon García-Mathews’ own wedding. Brothers Evan and Andy will be the ringbearers at their tíos’ wedding in Mexico, but they aren’t taking the responsibility too seriously. That is, until they see the love between their uncles. A story of love, family, and cultural identity that’s also available in Spanish.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9780593123638 Born Ready by Jodie Patterson, illustrated by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow
Penelope is a boy. The only problem is that everyone else thinks he’s a girl. This empowering picture book shares the story of a young transgender boy who experiences the ups and downs of being true to himself. Heartwarming and inspirational, this picture book will touch your heart.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9780763690458 Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love
This gorgeous Stonewall Award-winning picture book stars Julián, a child coming to understand their gender nonconformity after a joyful encounter with three women dressed as shimmering mermaids. Julián fantasizes about dressing up like a mermaid too, and wonders what his Abuela will make of it in this celebration of self-love and individuality.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9780593530061 Kapaemahu by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, Dean Hamer, and Joe Wilson, illustrated by Daniel Sousa
This book explains the Indigenous legend of four Mahu (people with both a male and female spirit) who shared their healing arts with the Waikiki islanders. The islanders created a stone monument honoring the Mahu and their generosity, and visitors to Waikiki Beach can still see them there.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9780593178638 Pink, Blue, and You! by Elise Gravel with Mykaell Blais
This adorable picture book uses cartoon-style illustrations and easy-to-understand questions to challenge gender norms. It’s an excellent book to jump-start conversations about embracing yourself and others, no matter what colors, clothes, toys, and activities they enjoy.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9780525427544 Our Subway Baby by Peter Mercurio, illustrated by Leo Espinosa
Although Pete and Danny had not considered starting a family, that changed when Danny found a baby in a subway station. They adopted the baby, named him Kevin, and became a family. This heartwarming story is based on the author’s real-life experience of becoming a father.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9781536213430 Twas the Night Before Pride by Joanna McClintick, illustrated by Juana Medina
Discover the history behind Pride month and how it became nationally recognized with this gorgeous picture book. Young readers will learn about Stonewall, AIDS, protests, and other significant events in an age-appropriate way. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in Pride history.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9780593623138 Who You Will Be by Taylor Rouanzion, illustrated by Stacey Chomiak
Two parents welcome a new child, introducing them to every color of the rainbow and dreaming about the person they will become. It’s a heartfelt love letter about self-discovery and gender expression from a parent to their beloved child. It’s a fantastic title to read while snuggling your little one before bedtime.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9780593622841 Gorgeously Me! by Jonathan Van Ness, illustrated by Kamala Nair
Jonathan Van Ness, star of Netflix’s Queer Eye, pens a hopeful and inspiring book encouraging children to embrace the most unique parts of themselves. The upbeat messaging and colorful illustrations deliver a timely and much-needed message of self-love and confidence.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9781682636909 Leo and the Pink Marker by Mariyka Foster
Coloring on the wrong things is a common childhood mishap. This gently humorous picture book explores what happens when a young boy gets carried away and colors outside the lines with his pink marker. It’s perfect for fans of Harold and the Purple Crayon.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9780593381533 Olivette Is You by Nico Tortorella, illustrated by Melissa Kashiwagi
Celebrate your whole child with this gorgeous picture book. Joyful text and beautiful artwork deliver a feel-good message that children will love. The main character, Olivette, tells young readers they don’t have to confine themselves to one identity. They don’t have to pick and choose who they want to be because they are already everything.
(Ages 4 – 8)
9780399555312 Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Steven Salerno
Young readers can now learn the momentous and inspiring story of the Gay Pride Flag, created in 1978 by social activist Harvey Milk and designer Gilbert Baker. More than a history, Pride vibrantly illuminates the reach and timelessness of the rainbow flag, a global symbol of equality and inclusion.
(Ages 5 – 8)
9781524719524 Stonewall: A Building, an Uprising, a Revolution by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Jamey Christoph
Pride author Rob Sanders adds another title to the LGBTQ+ historical canon with Stonewall, the moving story of the 1969 police raid and ensuing protests that played a crucial role in the gay civil rights movement. Narrated by the Stonewall Inn itself, this accessible and empowering book is an essential piece of pride history.
(Ages 5 – 8)
9780744085792 A Kids Book About Gender by Dale Mueller
If you’re looking for resources to help your child explore their gender and identity, this book is a must-have. The conversational tone makes the topic accessible and easy for young readers to understand. It’s an excellent book to start open and safe conversations about gender with your child.
(Ages 5 – 9)
9780593523698 Queer and Fearless by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Harry Woodgate
Introduce your young reader to LGBTQ+ heroes throughout history with this collection of 17 short biographies. Each activist in the book is honored with a lively poem, a short bio, and a striking illustration. Anyone interested in learning more about the movers and shakers in the LGBTQ+ community will want to read this book.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2014 and updated in 2025.
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]]>The post 7 YA Romance Audiobooks Perfect for Spring appeared first on Brightly.
]]>In these audiobooks, characters from various backgrounds, cultures, and personal experiences navigate the outside world, sometimes for the first time, and find hope in one another and themselves. The promises of a happily ever after, found family, and new beginnings make these audiobooks ideal companions to a fresh season.
If you’re a genre reader who wants to be captivated by your next romantasy novel, I have the perfect vampire page-turner for you. Maybe you’re preparing for a big move or cross-country road trip this summer and would love to press play on a cozy escape. This spring, there’s a love story on audio for every listener. Here are seven romance audiobooks for teens to help you find yours!
no no 9780593943595 A Cruel Thirst by Angela Montoya, read by Diana Bustelo and Gary Tiedemann
When I first listened to Angela Montoya’s debut young adult novel, Sinner’s Isle, I knew she would become one of my favorite romance authors. Each swashbuckling adventure sweeps you into the arms of her heroines, making you feel like you’re the one holding the sword! In A Cruel Thirst, Montoya delivers an irresistible tale of a vampire huntress named Carolina who must work with her greatest enemy to defeat all evil. However, to her surprise, the rookie vampire Lalo is not the monster she expected.
9798217019311 Say a Little Prayer by Jenna Voris, read by Caitlin Kinnunen
As a teen, I attended Catholic school and Sunday school, with uniforms and holy sacraments required! Even though that’s not a big part of my life anymore, I enjoy coming-of-age stories that explore what it’s like growing up in a religious community while grappling with your own identity. In Say a Little Prayer by Jenna Voris, we follow Riley and Julia as they set aside their differences, fall madly in love, and start a revolution at their church camp. What could go wrong?
9798217014941 Love Points to You by Alice Lin, read by Katharine Chin
I enjoy rivals-to-lovers romance stories and seeing two young people overcome challenges to pursue their joy. Love Points to You by Alice Lin is a sweet contemporary story following two rival classmates, Linda and Angela. The two fall for each other while working on a love-based video game that could set them up for future success in romance and beyond.
9798217074570 All the Stars Align by Gretchen Schreiber, read by Taylor Meskimen
Deeply saddened by the sudden news of her parents’ divorce, Piper worries that her love life is doomed to fail before she can find her star-crossed soulmate. That is, until she meets him at a party, of course! When Piper enlists the help of her former best friend and love expert, Leo, to capture the attention of her beloved, things get even more complicated — and enchanting.
9798217014903 I Love You S’more by Auriane Desombre, read by Kristen DiMercurio
I Love You S’more is a delightful sapphic love story that reminds me of the first time I watched The Parent Trap and dreamt about spending an entire summer at camp, making new friends and developing new crushes. This is exactly the summer Ivy needs as she recovers from her first public breakup. When she signs up for the camp’s musical production, she meets the bossy co-director Rynn, who makes this summer one they’ll never forget. Swoon!
9798217070220 Camila Núñez’s Year of Disasters by Miriam Zoila Pérez, read by Yenni Ann
One of my favorite rituals this year has been a daily tarot reading, so when I heard Miriam Zoila Pérez’s debut YA novel featured tarot cards and sweet sixteens, I knew I had to listen. Cuban American teen Camila struggles with anxiety and body image, and she is learning about her queerness along the way. She wants to be the best she can be — the best daughter, best dog walker, and best friend. But first, she’ll have the best love story of all — the one she has with herself.
9780593705063 Lady Knight by Amalie Howard, read by Yasmin Mwanza
Perfect for regency-era and historical romance readers, Lady Knight by Amalie Howard has it all — humor, friendship, and swordplay. If you’re missing shows like Bridgerton, you’ll fall head over heels for this page-turner about the misadventures of a duke’s daughter and her brother’s best friend, a handsome rake named Rafi.
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]]>The post A Roald Dahl Book for <br>Every Kind of Kid appeared first on Brightly.
]]>So which Roald Dahl book is perfect for your kid? From the budding poet to the reluctant reader, here are some favorite Dahl titles suited to all kinds of little personalities.
yes no For the Ultimate Book Lover … 9780425287675 Matilda by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
Matilda is one of the best books about school ever written, largely because it presents children with both the good and the bad behind modern education in a surprisingly even-handed way. While Miss Trunchbull and her horrid school are definitely the bad guys, Matilda is practically a poster child for the benefits of intellectual curiosity and self-guided reading (and Miss Honey shows kids that not all teachers are bad).
yes no For the Budding Poet … 9780142414828 Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
Revolting Rhymes is a fantastically funny poetry collection that shows aspiring young poets how to look at familiar things from a fresh and unique perspective. Dahl’s verses skewer classic fairy tales and ask readers to ruminate on unfamiliar questions like, “What if Cinderella didn’t like her prince?” or “Can you believe what a rotten little kid Goldilocks was?” If your young poet wants to learn how to question authority in the most lyrical way possible, this is the book for them.
yes no For the Prankster … 9780593349670 The Twits by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
The Twits is a classic that every kid should read, especially if they love pranks and quirky characters. Mr. and Mrs. Twit are awful people who hate everyone and everything — except for playing pranks on their pet monkeys. But when the monkeys get tired of the never-ending stream of not-so-funny pranks and cruel jokes, they devise a plan to get revenge on the Twits. Don’t miss the animated film coming to Netflix in June 2025!
yes no For the Kid Who Adores Animals … 9780451480002 The Enormous Crocodile by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
In this short but no less wonderful Dahl tale, the Enormous Crocodile schemes to catch some delicious children to fill his belly. Thinking himself very clever, he brags about his plans to the other animals of the jungle, who then make it their mission to stop him. Featuring a menagerie of animals like Humpy-Rumpy the Hippo, Trunky the Elephant, and Muggle-Wump the Monkey, this story will delight little animal lovers as they observe the heroic creatures put a stop to the Crocodile’s hilarious tricks.
yes no For the Movie Buff … 9780142410387 The BFG by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
If your kid won’t touch a book until they’ve seen the movie adaptation, convince them that they should take a (short) leap and read Dahl’s The BFG. Not only is it a beautiful and funny tale of a young girl befriending the world’s only kind giant, you can also enjoy Steven Spielberg’s movie version.
yes no For the Fantasy Reader … 9780451480798 James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
Named one of TIME Magazine‘s 100 Best Fantasy Books of All Time, this book is one of Dahl’s greatest. Young James is forced to live with his dreadful aunts after a rhino tragically kills his parents, but his bad luck turns around when he sets sail on a giant peach with an unlikely group of friends. It’s a most fantastically wonderful tale.
Fun fact: Dahl originally planned to write a story about a giant cherry, but changed it to James and the Giant Peach because they’re “prettier, bigger and squishier than a cherry.”
yes no For the Aspiring MasterChef Junior … 9780140378207 Roald Dahl’s Revolting Recipes by Roald Dahl, Felicity Dahl, and Josie Fison, illustrated by Quentin Blake, photographed by Jan Baldwin
Technically, Revolting Recipes was compiled by Dahl’s daughter, Felicity, after Dahl’s death, but the author did help create most of the recipes and always wanted to publish a cookbook based on the wild concepts from his many food-related tales. (It also features art by longtime Dahl illustrator Quentin Blake.) If your kid loves to cook, how can they pass up trying to make The Twits’ Bird Pie or Willy Wonka’s Lickable Wallpaper?
yes no For the Kid Who Prefers Reality Over Fantasy … 9780142413814 Boy by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
If your child has no patience for magical chocolate factories or flying glass elevators, they might enjoy some of Dahl’s nonfiction works, especially his memoir Boy: Tales of Childhood, a collection of truly fascinating, well-told anecdotes that follow Dahl from his youth to age 20. Or perhaps even the more obscure The Mildenhall Treasure, in which Dahl reports on the true story of a British farmer who uncovered a million dollar cache of ancient Roman silver in his field one day.
yes no For the Reluctant Reader … 9780140368376 The Vicar of Nibbleswicke by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake
The Vicar of Nibbleswicke was published after Dahl’s death, but it truly speaks to Dahl’s love for children, language, and reading. The title character is a clergyman suffering from Back-to-Front Dyslexia, a condition that makes him say certain words backwards (to hilarious effect). Dahl and his collaborator Quentin Blake both donated their profits from the book to the Dyslexia Institute in London.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2018 and updated in 2025.
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]]>The post 28 Sweet Picture Books That Celebrate Fatherhood appeared first on Brightly.
]]>This year I have picture books on my mind because my brother-in-law will be celebrating his very first Father’s Day. I can’t wait to see pictures of him curled up with my niece reading one of these soon-to-be classics.
no no 9780525553366 Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison
In this celebration of a father’s love, Zuri and her dad work together to style her gorgeous, natural, curly hair when Zuri’s mom is away. Zuri’s dad shows the power of the bond between dads and daughters.
9780593531372 My Dad Is a Tree by Jon Agee
This imaginative picture book celebrates dads who go the extra mile for their children. When little Madeleine convinces her dad to pretend to be a tree so they can spend the day playing outside, he takes his role very seriously, keeping still as a bird nests on his head, a spider spins a web on his arm, and rain falls from the sky. After all, as Madeleine reminds him, “Trees aren’t bothered by stuff like that.”
9780593354360 Daddy Speaks Love by Leah Henderson, illustrated by E. B. Lewis
This beautiful book highlights the many ways that dads show up for their children. From painting nails to banishing monsters, dads play an essential role in their children’s lives. Beautiful illustrations and heartwarming text make this picture book a fantastic gift for new parents or Father’s Day.
9780593888919 Bluey: The Big Blue Guy’s Book of Dad Goals by Penguin Young Readers Licenses
Bluey’s dad, Bandit, shares his favorite tips and tricks to being a great dad. Whether he’s waking up early to make the most of the day with the kids, dancing like no one’s watching, or showing the kids how to win fair and square, he takes his job as dad very seriously. Sweet and a little silly, this book is a great reminder of all the ways — big and small — you can show up for your loved ones. Kids will especially love drawing connections between all the things Bandit and their own dads do every day!
RELATED: Picture Books That Celebrate BIPOC Dads
no no 9780593434512 The Bench by Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, illustrated by Christian Robinson
Inspired by a poem Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, wrote for her husband for his first Father’s Day as a dad, this sweet story explores the many ways love can take shape between fathers and sons, as seen through a mother’s eyes. Featuring a range of diverse families, Robinson’s ethereal watercolor art beautifully compliments Meghan’s poetic text while evoking a sense of joy.
9780593429396 Ahoy! by Sophie Blackall
A storm is approaching! While a father is busy finishing some housework, his son starts a pretend adventure across the seas. The father, of course, decides to join in, and together they embark on a delightful tale that celebrates the pleasures of imagination and spending time with dad!
9780593405055 This Is the First Book I Will Read to You by Francesco Sedita, illustrated by Magenta Fox
A new dad is excited to read to his baby for the first time in this lyrical story centered around the tender ritual of storytime, cementing the love of reading for a lifetime.
9780593224717 Llama Llama Daddy’s Day by Anna Dewdney
Calling all little llamas! Gather around with beloved Llama Llama and Nelly Gnu as they figure out what makes the best gift for Daddy Gnu. A delightfully funny tale, that’s based on an episode dads can watch with their little ones on Netflix.
9780593807873 My Dad Is a Unicorn! by Bill Canterbury, illustrated by Jeff Harter
If you think your dad is weird, imagine if he was a unicorn! All dads have their quirks, but this dad is always getting his tie stuck on his horn and he uses glitter to fix everything! This hilarious picture book shows that even if dads do silly things, they love their kids and would do anything for them. Plus, those quirks are what make our dads so special and deserve to be celebrated!
9781524785895 I Love Dad with The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Dads will devour this board book gem featuring Eric Carle’s beloved caterpillar and an adorable cast of furry and feathered friends sharing all of the reasons they love their dads.
9781524792374 My Dad and Me by Roger Hargreaves
Say goodbye to boring Father’s Day cards! Along with the characters from Mr. Men and Little Miss, little readers can express in their own words all they love and cherish about their dads. You can’t go wrong with this adorable picture book.
9780593206188 A Father’s Love by Hannah Holt, illustrated by Yee Von Chan
From a penguin papa snuggling with his baby in the cold, white snow to a seahorse father hatching his young in the deep blue ocean, this adorable board book shows that a father’s love comes in all forms. Sweet and simple rhymes combine with beautiful artwork to create a memorable bedtime lullaby for dads and kids to enjoy together.
9781623544911 My Dad Is the Best by Fran Pintadera, illustrated by Joan Turu
Two young boys compete to see whose dad is the strongest in this silly and sweet picture book. One kid claims that his dad can lift a truck. Not to be outdone, the other kid says that his dad can lift a truck … filled with elephants! As the book progresses, the claims get more absurd, until they eventually realize that there is something even more special about their dads than their strength.
9780399167898 Here We Are by Oliver Jeffers
In this beautiful book, Oliver Jeffers outlines his hopes and dreams for his child as they go out into the world. Filled with gentle humor and yet incredibly insightful, it is a wonderful read for anyone who calls Earth home, both on how we should protect our planet, but also how we should treat those who inhabit it.
9780525517306 Brick by Brick by Heidi Woodward Sheffield
Luis looks up to his father, who works as a bricklayer and builds up their city brick by brick. At school, where Luis also works hard and dreams of the future, he compares all the ways that he and Papi are similar. The mixed-media artwork and Spanish phrases add vibrancy to a sweet father-son story.
9780593117668 No Pants! by Jacob Grant
On the day of a family party, Pablo and his dad get ready together. But when Pablo refuses to put on his pants, his dad has to get creative. This hilarious picture book celebrates the unique way fathers relate to their kids.
9780399243530 Dad and the Dinosaur by Gennifer Choldenko, illustrated by Dan Santat
Unlike his dad, who seems to have no fears at all, Nicholas has a long list of things that scare him — but with his stuffed dinosaur by his side, those fears disappear. When his dino goes missing, Nicholas’s dad teaches him that everyone gets scared sometimes, and you can always ask for help.
9780593572160 Love, Dad: Inspiring Notes from Fathers to Kids by Dr. Joel Warsh and Andrew Gardner, illustrated by David Cooper
Eighteen fathers were asked to finish the sentence, “When you grow up, I hope you …” Some expressed hope that their children would dream big while others wanted their kids to be loved and show kindness to others. Tender and inspiring, this illustrated collection is filled with the many hopes and dreams that fathers have for their children. A beautiful read for Father’s Day and all year long!
9780593522998 Dads Can Do It All! by Ted Maass, ilustrated by Ekaterina Trukhan
This sweet board book highlights the importance of dads as role models — working as mail carriers, chefs, astronauts, and stay-at-home dads —while reminding children they do anything they set their minds to.
9780394800295 Hop on Pop by Dr. Seuss
With fun rhymes and simple words, this book is one your early reader will want to read aloud to their own Pop. With silliness only Dr. Seuss could write, Hop on Pop will be a favorite for the whole family to enjoy.
9781632172648 Our Shed by Robert Broder, illustrated by Carrie O’Neill
Our Shed tells the story of a father-daughter team who work together to build a shed in their backyard. As they work, the father passes down his knowledge on how to build a structure, while the daughter teaches her father how to use your imagination and creativity. Charming and heartwarming, this book will teach readers not only how to build a shed, but also how to build a lasting relationship.
9780241409220 I Love You, Daddy by Beatrix Potter
You can never go wrong with a Peter Rabbit book for any occasion (or no occasion at all!). In this elegantly illustrated picture book, Peter expresses his affection for his father, wrapping up on a heartwarming note: “Remember, Daddy, I love you, too.”
9780593624616 Happy Father’s Day from the Crayons by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers
The Crayons are back and this time they are showing their appreciation for the dads — and father figures — in their lives! Green crayon loves his granddad, who has a real green thumb. Red Crayon loves his dad because he draws the most perfect hearts. And Blue Green crayon has two dads to celebrate! Hilarious and heartfelt, this inclusive book also highlights that each family is different and that we should celebrate all kinds of families!
9781909263949 My Dad Used To Be So Cool by Keith Negley
A total hit for new dads, this one follows a son in awe of his dad’s pre-fatherhood days, full of live shows, tattoos, and motorcycle rides. Striking the perfect balance between humorous and emotional (Negley’s niche, writes the New York Times, is expanding our ideas of masculinity), My Dad Used to Be So Cool is sure to become a household favorite.
9780593374399 Dad School by Rebecca Van Slyke, illustrated by Priscilla Burris
A little boy wonders how dads know how to do so many amazing things like fixing a leaky faucet, making mega-sandwiches, or simultaneously paying bills and playing Go Fish. He imagines they must go to school just like he does. Kids and dads alike will love the vivid images that show the myriad skills that dads must master to do their jobs.
9780593519653 My Dad Is Awesome by Bluey and Bingo by Penguin Young Readers Licenses
Everyone’s favorite Heelers are back to celebrate their dad! Bluey and Bingo love that their dad, Bandit, takes them on exciting adventures and plays fun games with them in the backyard. Your little ones will love finding all the similarities they share with Bluey and Bingo, as well as sharing their own reasons for why their dad is awesome!
9781536235098 Dawn Patrol: A Father and Daughter Surfing Story by Rob Sayegh Jr.
This stunning picture book follows a father and daughter as they go out to surf at dawn. The two love to laugh as they put on their wetsuits, watch the surfers, and get excited when they finally ride a wave. But more than that, it is a celebration of the moments together that add up to a lifetime of memories.
9780307118394 Just Me and My Dad by Mercer Mayer
Little Critter can’t wait to go camping with his dad. Even though things don’t go quite as planned, they still have a blast. Big and little critters alike will delight in their silly misadventures!
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2016 and updated in 2025.
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]]>The post The Ultimate YA Summer Reading List appeared first on Brightly.
]]>no no 9780593567593 Nothing Bad Happens Here by Rachel Ekstrom Courage
Crack open this book for a chilling summer adventure filled with murder and mystery set in beautiful Nantucket. When Lucia and her mother arrive on the idyllic island for the summer, she quickly becomes friends with three wealthy teen girls. But after finding a dead body on the beach, Lucia realizes something sinister hides beneath the island’s picture-perfect facade.
9780593711965 Bones at the Crossroads by LaDarrion Williams
Head back to Caiman University with this sequel to the bestselling series opener, Blood at the Root. Summer is over, and Malik returns to the magical school, where he joins a secret society to study ancient magic. Just as things start looking up, Malik realizes that the problems at the school and in the society are getting worse, and it’s up to him to fix them.
9780593813843 The Scorpion and the Night Blossom by Amélie Wen Zhao
To save her dying mother’s life, Àn’yīng enters the Immortality Trials. If she completes the trials, she will earn one pill of eternal life. During the Trials, Àn’yīng forms an unlikely alliance with a mysterious boy and learns that her life and the fate of the kingdom depend on the outcome of the Trials. This action-packed fantasy novel is a must-have this summer!
9780525555643 Night Swimming by Aaron Starmer
Fall in love with this eerie and romantic novel about two teens trying to swim in every pool in town. When their quest takes them to a little-known pond in the woods, they quickly fall under its spell. Soon, the lines between reality and fantasy start to blur, and the teens find themselves on the cusp of something extraordinary and unsettling.
9780593806104 The Education of Kia Greer by Alanna Bennett
Kia’s life as a reality star’s daughter is anything but normal. When a fake romance with teen heartthrob Cass starts to feel real, she faces the messy truth about fame, identity, and first love. A fearless, heartfelt story about finding yourself beyond the spotlight.
9780593524244 The Counselors by Jessica Goodman
Goldie Easton calls Camp Alpine Lake home. This summer, she and her two besties, Ava and Imogen, are counselors. But then a camper dies by the lake, and it wasn’t an accident. Here’s the twist: Goldie went into the summer with a dark secret — but so did her friends. Can she trust Ava and Imogen? Perfect for fans of Holly Jackson and Karen M. McManus, this thrilling mystery novel needs to find a spot on your TBR list ASAP!
9780593807545 I Love You S’more by Auriane Desombre
Head to summer camp with the characters in this adorable sapphic enemies-to-lovers romance novel. After a nasty breakup, Ivy wants to escape her grief, so she signs up as a camp counselor. The only problem is that one of the other counselors is her childhood nemesis. But the summer has several surprises in store for the girls, including their growing feelings for each other.
9781368098731 Rick Riordan Presents: It Waits in the Forest by Sarah Dass
Selina doesn’t believe in magic, but ever since a tragedy left her father dead and mother in a coma, she has pretended to have psychic powers. A string of murders on her island and the return of her ex-boyfriend push Selina to search for answers and justice. But to find them, Selina must also find the root of the island’s evil. This thriller inspired by Carribean mythology will send chills racing down your spine!
9781536233469 This Thing of Ours by Frederick Joseph
A torn ACL sends Ossie’s dreams of playing basketball out the window. He feels lost until a teacher invites him to join her writing program. While he excels in the program, his new passion comes under fire when some students make a viral “anti-woke” video. Now, Ossie must decide whether to accept defeat again or put his newfound passion to good use.
9780593650622 A Forgery of Fate by Elizabeth Lim
Get lost in a magical world filled with romance, curses, and treason with this retelling of Beauty and the Beast. To save her family from ruin, Truyan marries a dragon lord and uses her unique ability to paint the future to help him overthrow the tyrannical king. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Elizabeth Lim’s books or just discovering them, you don’t want to miss this one!
9780593809068 Beach Cute by Beth Reekles
No YA summer reading list is complete without a Beth Reekles novel on it. From the bestselling author of The Kissing Booth series comes a charming new beach read that will have you swooning and laughing in equal measure. Three strangers meet at the same vacation resort and experience an unforgettable summer filled with romance, drama, and friendship.
9780593857892 Very Dangerous Things by Lauren Mũnoz
At a prestigious school’s annual murder mystery game, one student ends up truly dead — and all eyes are on his ex. With secrets, suspects, and tension running high, two ex-best friends must team up to solve the crime before the killer strikes again.
9780593301036 Murder Between Friends by Liz Lawson
When Grace’s testimony sent a killer to prison, her best friends Henry and Ally turned against her. Now, as the killer gets a second chance at freedom, the three teens must face each other, their past, and their memories. But nothing is as it seems, and everyone has secrets. The ex-friends must learn to trust each other again and find out what really happened on the night of the murder.
9780593709856 Wicked Darlings by Jordyn Taylor
After her sister dies under suspicious circumstances during a summer internship at a New York society newspaper, Noa wants answers. She infiltrates the city’s high society, getting pulled into the glamorous world of parties, gossip, and secrets. Noa must work quickly to find out what happened to her sister before the world of high society swallows her up, too.
9780593696897 Summer Girls by Jennifer Dugan
Opposites attract in this summery, sapphic YA romance set in an idyllic beach town. Cass refuses to date the wealthy girls who overrun her hometown every summer. When her dad recruits her to keep his boss’s rebellious daughter, Birdie, out of trouble, Cass believes her summer is over before it starts. However, as the girls spend more time together, Cass begins to rethink her “no summer girls” rule.
9780593527603 Lying in the Deep by Diana Urban
A jealous ex-girlfriend stalks her former best friend and boyfriend during a semester-long cruise in this spine-tingling thriller. But when her classmates start dropping dead one by one, June must find the real killer before she either takes the blame for the murders or shares the victims’ fate.
9780593176290 Sunkissed by Kasie West
When you want a feel-good story with cheerful summer vibes, you can’t go wrong with a Kasie West novel. Head to a family summer camp in this rom-com for Dirty Dancing fans. Avery is less than thrilled to be at the camp until she meets the handsome Brooks, an off-limits staff member. For Avery, the summer brings first love, self-discovery, heartache, and beauty.
Looking for summer reading ideas for younger kids? Check out our 2024 lists for Kids Ages 3 – 5, Ages 6 – 8, and Ages 9 – 12.
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]]>These books for tweens feature fantasy, mystery, hardships, history, adventure, and lots of fun! This list has something for every kind of reader.
no no 9780593564226 A Copycat Conundrum (The Misfits) by Lisa Yee, illustrated by Dan Santat
My daughter loved the first book in this series! The Misfits may be an awkward group of kids fighting crime, but they possess the right qualities to dominate every mission. That is until priceless pieces of art go missing, bizarre earthquakes shake up San Francisco, and the nicest kid in school starts receiving terrorizing notes — all at the same time. Is this a coincidence, or are these circumstances connected?
9780593813171 The Dragon’s Apprentice by James Riley
Like most fantasy books, this middle grade novel has adventure and magic on every page, but it is also hilarious! Twelve-year-old Ciara lives in a tiny village ruled by an Emperor who promises that bad things will befall anyone who learns magic. Ciara tempts fate and accidentally summons an ancient, grouchy dragon who might be able to help her save her mother!
9780593959305 The Green Kingdom by Cornelia Funke and Tammi Hartung, illustrated by Melissa Castrillon
Brooklyn is NOT where 12-year-old Caspia wants to spend the summer. Big cities are not her thing, but her attitude changes when she finds a bundle of letters written by a blind girl long ago, all containing a riddle. These riddles lead her on an adventure to places and people she would have never discovered otherwise.
9780593112113 Max in the Land of Lies by Adam Gidwitz
In this sequel to the historical fiction novel Max in the House of Spies, Max has successfully become a British spy. But when he returns to Germany, he finds his parents missing, and the Nazis keep him under constant surveillance. He risks everything to find his parents, but before long, the lies and truths start to blur together.
9780451479754 A Hero’s Guide to Summer Vacation by Pablo Cartaya
When a quiet kid and his grumpy yet famous grandpa hit the road in a vintage convertible, sparks fly and surprises unfold. From coast to coast, they battle old grudges, face unexpected challenges, and discover that real-life adventures can be the most epic of all!
9780593226520 Ready or Not! #1 by Megan E. Bryant
Too much is changing in nine-year-old Abby’s world. Her best friend moved away, her mom started working full time, she has to do the dreaded after-school running program, and don’t get her started on the changes happening in her body without her permission. Being stuck between being a little kid and a full-blown teenager is hard.
9780593644164 Survive This Safari by Natalie D. Richards
My kids love mind puzzles, and this middle grade novel is chock full of them. Lucy’s mind is blown when she is selected to participate in the Wildlands Safari Escape Challenge. She and her team race against the Wild Ambassadors to solve mind-bending puzzles and unlock new areas in the safari park. Naturally, they run into some crazy obstacles along the way. You don’t want to miss this one!
9780593645901 Bumps in the Night by Amalie Howard
Darika is mad and doesn’t think she deserves to be shipped off to her grandmother in the Caribbean for the summer. She’s also angry at her mom, who left and never came back. The second she steps foot on the island, things feel off. But after a group of misfit kids offers to help her find her mother, she gets pulled into an adventure filled with monsters, mazes, and magic.
9780735230613 Creaky Acres: A Graphic Novel by Calista Brill and Nilah Magruder, illustrated by Nilah Magruder
Sign my kids up for all the graphic novels! Nora loves her suburban hometown and close group of friends. But when her mom accepts a new job in a poor, rural area, Nora finds herself sad and lonely in a new place. Can she get used to being the new kid at school and practicing her horseback riding hobby at Creaky Acres?
9780593462393 The Human Kaboom by Adam Rubin
Do you have a child who loves all things wacky and weird? If so, check out this collection of six short stories! Even though every short story has the same name (quirky, right?), they each have a different illustrator, scenarios, and endings. These unique stories will leave your tween wanting more, so check out the author’s companion book, The Ice Cream Machine!
9780593690529 Would You Rather? Summer Edition by Lindsey Daly
School is out, everyone is relaxed, and the fun is just starting! Get some funny discussions going with this Would You Rather? book on a family road trip, sitting around the campfire, or hanging out at the beach. Your entire family will laugh at the goofy responses you come up with. It’s a surefire way to keep everyone entertained!
9780593651643 Speak Up, Santiago! by Julio Anta, illustrated by Gabi Mendez
Santi is thrilled to spend the summer in Hillside Valley, hang out with local kids, spend time with his Grandma, and eat her delicious food. There is one hang-up, though — the majority of kids speak Spanish. Even though Santi is Columbian, his Spanish is shaky. Can he keep up with everyone and absorb his Columbian heritage? This graphic novel is filled with lots of culture and friendship!
9780593696385 Encounter at Owl Rock by Rucker Moses
Oakley and Cypress may be identical twins, but that’s where the likenesses end. Cypress is into directing films and is excited to start his new movie project. Oakley loves acting in Cypress films and using his imagination. When the twins have a disagreement, Oakley runs into Owl Rock, a granite formation, and vanishes. Cypress and his friend Jaz must outmaneuver a villainous company, find Oakley, and uncover Owl Rock’s deepest secrets.
9780593481417 Sea Swept by Leah Cypess
The final installment of the Sisters Ever After series is here! Sisters Daria and Meria are both happy where they are. Daria lives in the sea as a mermaid, but Meria traded her fins for legs to be with the love of her life. Things drastically change when Daria receives a message about her sister’s disappearance up on land. Will she leave the beloved sea and venture to the land above to save her sister?
9780593662304 Quantum Interstellar Sports League #1 by J. Scott Savage, illustrated by Brandon Dorman
If you have a child who loves football, space, and graphic novels, this book is for them! Wyatt doesn’t love football, regardless of his legendary quarterback dad. Somehow, he becomes the quarterback in an intergalactic tournament against some scary aliens! This novel is full of fun, humor, and friendship.
Looking for summer reading ideas for younger or older kids? Check out our 2024 lists for Kids Ages 3 – 5, Ages 6 – 8, and Teens.
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]]>Summer reading for rising 1st – 3rd graders is about finding books that keep them engaged, laughing, and coming back for more while reinforcing skills they learned in class, avoiding that summer slide (another “s”)!
This summer, let’s match books to classic seasonal activities — whether your kiddo spends their days at the pool, explores the backyard, or becomes a lemonade stand CEO. From picture books to illustrated chapter books and graphic novels, here are the best summer reads to keep young minds busy and boredom at bay!
yes no Backyard Exploration 9780593812518 We Dig Fossils by Alliah L. Agostini, illustrated by Joelle Murray
If your new reader needs books with basic vocabulary, familiar words, and short sentences, try the Step into Reading series. There are hundreds of books to choose from that cover a variety of interests. The latest book, We Dig Fossils, follows a little girl named Ava, a budding paleontologist, and her family as they search for fossils.
9780593405567 City Summer, Country Summer by Kiese Laymon, illustrated by Alexis Franklin
City Mouse, Country Mouse meets Black Boy Joy in this ode to the friendships made during summer vacation. Three boys visiting their grandmothers in the deep South find freedom in playing games and forging kinship in the Mississippi woods. With lyrical text from award-winning author Kiese Laymon and Alexis Franklin’s moving and visually expressive illustrations, this picture book is a beautiful tribute to summer.
9780593176528 What’s Inside a Bird’s Nest? by Rachel Ignotofsky
This book is the newest title in Rachel Ignotofsky’s beautiful nonfiction What’s Inside series. What’s Inside a Bird’s Nest? gives readers a snapshot of our winged friends from the moment they hatch until they take to the sky. Engaging information, concise text, and detailed illustrations answer curious readers’ questions. Take this book along with What’s Inside a Caterpillar Cocoon? and What’s Inside a Flower? outside on a warm summer day, and enjoy exploring nature.
yes no Swimming 9781774881880 Swimming into Trouble by Angela Ahn, illustrated by Julie Kim
Illustrated novels pair the text and storytelling of a short chapter book with the full-color illustrations of a picture book. This makes them a perfect bridge for 6- to 8-year-olds who enjoy picture books but are ready to read longer stories. In Swimming into Trouble, Julia is the youngest swimmer of the Vipers Swim Team and is anxious to prove herself in the pool. Not even an ear infection will keep her from competing.
9780593752791 Swim School: A Bluey Storybook by Penguin Young Readers Licenses
Eight-year-olds were around Bingo’s age when Bluey first came on the air, and there’s a good chance your kid adores the television show. Our family has grown up watching the beloved TV series, and we never pass up a chance to read a Bluey book. The “Swim School” episode from season two follows Bluey acting as a swim instructor and mom, dad, and Bingo as students trying to pass their swim test without “dobbing” on each other. Readers will love reading the familiar episode, and parents will love getting kids off screens.
yes no A Summer Project 9780735228283 It Began with Lemonade by Gideon Sterer, illustrated by Lian Cho
What’s summer without trying to become a young entrepreneur with your own one-of-a-kind lemonade stand? It’s too bad all the other kids on the block have the same idea. So, this spunky heroine takes her lemonade stand on the road, searching for thirsty clientele, and ends up in unexpected places. This is a funny and engaging story about turning lemons into lemonade with a slight twist. The rich, colorful illustrations are jam-packed with funny, comic-book-style details.
9780735269460 Troop Esme by Lourdes Heuer, illustrated by Marissa Valdez
Esme! is another illustrated chapter book series for the transitional reading crowd. After meeting Wendall, a boy trying to earn a badge by selling Troop Badger cookies, Esme decides she wants to earn badges, too. She isn’t part of a Badger troop, so she starts her own and invites the kids in her apartment building to join. Her troop’s first task is to help Wendall sell all of his cookies. Esme is a can-do heroine with lots of heart, perfect for fans of Dory Fantasmagory.
yes no Summer Camp & Camping 9781368084611 My Teammate is a Hot Head (Disney Camp Lil Vills, Book 2) by Sam Hay, illustrated by Ria Maria Lee
If your reader knows who Mal, Evie, Carlos, and Jay are (mine do!), chances are they are a Disney Descendants fan. We know that the Descendants are the children of Disney Villains, but what were those villains like as kids? Did they cause trouble? Of course they did! When young Hades gets to the most magical summer camp, the ropes relay course is no match for his hot temper. This chapter book series features black-and-white illustrations, short chapters, and hilarious summer-themed scenarios, perfect for a road trip to Disney World (or land).
9798217151318 Would You Rather? Summer Fun Box Set by Lindsey Daly
This set of three “Would You Rather?” books is bursting with questions about favorite summer activities like campfires, whitewater rafting, and pool parties. Readers will find thought-provoking scenarios and games to entertain and challenge kids to think creatively and speak persuasively. While this is listed for 8- to 12-year-olds, it’s a great addition to any family’s summertime activities.
9780823453948 The Best Worst Camp Out Ever by Joe Cepeda
Join a father and son duo as they embark on a journey filled with unexpected mishaps and endless laughs. From a crowded camping ground to rainy nights and failed fishing attempts, nothing seems to go according to plan. But don’t be fooled by the surface level chaos, as this delightful early comic teaches us that sometimes, the biggest adventures are the ones that don’t go as expected.
yes no Blockbuster Adventures 9780593378519 Super Pancake and the Mini Muffin Mayhem by Megan Wagner Lloyd, illustrated by Abhi Alwar
Graphic novel lovers will want to read Peggy Pancake’s latest superhero adventure with her sidekick, Luc Croissant, as they battle Dr. Evil Breakfast Sandwich and his sinister Henchtoasts. In the second book of this graphic novel series, Peggy’s everyday life gets in the way of her superhero duties, and she soon finds herself facing an unexpected villain of her own making! This series is a fan favorite in our household, and we are anxiously awaiting the third book, Super Pancake and the Terrible Toast, coming November 2025.
9780593526965 The Underdogs Catch a Cat Burglar by Kate Temple and Jol Temple, illustrated by Shiloh Gordon
In this hilarious mystery, The Underdog Detective Agency investigates a string of burglaries by a sly cat burglar. To catch the burglar, they do the unthinkable and bring on a brand new detective — a cat! This first title in The Underdogs chapter book series will keep young readers laughing as they try to crack the case. It’s excellent for cat and dog lovers and may inspire little readers to hunt for their own mysteries to solve.
9780593965306 Max and Chaffy: Welcome to Animal Island by Jamie Smart
With its vibrant illustrations, this graphic novel series will entice screen-loving kids away from their devices. The Boggle family has arrived on Animal Island, and Max can’t wait to explore! When he learns about a mysterious creature called the Chaffy, Max takes his notebook and a few clues and sets out to find it.
9780593660171 Elvis Is Missing #1 by Bruce Hale, illustrated by Luke Séguin-Magee
Short chapters mixed with black and white illustrations make this new early chapter book series fly. When Elvis the dog chases a strange creature through the neighborhood and vanishes into a portal, three kids and their babysitter have no choice but to follow him. They soar through deep space, encounter aliens, dodge asteroids, and defy gravity as they attempt to find their furry best friend (and return home before bedtime!). Add a few pizzas, and you have a new favorite series.
9781368094573 Magnificently Major: Princess Cinderella’s Horse (Disney’s Horsetail Hollow, Book 5) by Kiki Thorpe, illustrated by Laura Catrinella
Fans of horses and Disney princesses will fall in love with Maddie, her little sister, Evie, and their magical adventures on their new farm. When a wish gone wrong brings fairy tale horses to their farm, the sisters step in to save their happily-ever-afters. In this fifth book in the series, they help Major, Cinderella’s horse. This series by the creator of the Disney: The Never Girls series is excellent for readers transitioning from leveled readers to chapter books.
9780593712276 Max Meow 6: When Pancakes Go Bad (Really Bad!) by John Gallagher
If your reader loves to “meow-l” with laughter, check out the fan-favorite Max Meow graphic novel series. In this installment, Max Meow and his best friend Mindy (Science Kitty) save Kittyopolis from monster pancakes, wild dreams, and familiar villains. Can Max’s friends help contain the breakfast chaos and stop a newly organized Legion of Nasty from putting Max on permanent pawse?
Looking for summer reading ideas for younger or older kids? Check out our 2025 lists for Kids Ages 3 – 5, Ages 9 – 12, and Teens.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2018 and updated in 2025.
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]]>no no 9780593693254 Papilio by Ben Clanton, Corey R. Tabor, and Andy Chou Musser
This brilliant collaboration by three talented storytellers is a unique and captivating tale about a caterpillar’s journey through metamorphosis. Told with humor and heart, this book is a must-have for kids eager to learn about the life cycle of a butterfly.
9780593856291 Nellie’s Big Splash by Cori Doerrfeld
When Nellie, the sea turtle, hatches, she knows she must follow her siblings to the sea but finds the crashing waves terrifying. Readers will root for Nellie as she summons her courage to dive in and discover the beauty of the ocean beyond the waves.
9780593406076 See Marcus Grow by Marcus Bridgewater, illustrated by Reggie Brown
In this heartwarming story from viral favorite Garden Marcus, a young boy learns life lessons while exploring his grandmother’s garden. Through curiosity, care, and a deep connection to nature, children learn that growth in both plants and people takes time, love, and patience.
9780593616673 Don’t Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson, illustrated by Dan Santat
A paranoid narrator comically questions the possibly nefarious nature of fish, painting them as the outlaws of the animal kingdom. This laugh-out-loud tale will have readers seeing fish in a whole new and utterly ridiculous light. This is o-FISH-ially one of my favorite picture books of the year so far.
9781984812698 The Octopus Escapes by Maile Meloy, illustrated by Felicita Sala
Unhappy with his recent confinement in an aquarium, a clever octopus plans his daring escape back into the wild. With just the right amount of drama for little ones, this entertaining read will have children clamoring to know more about these brilliant creatures.
9780593697009 What’s Scarier Than Thunder? by Ben Falcone, illustrated by Kevin Cornell
Summer storms can be scary, but this imaginative tale shows how a creative father uses humor to help his daughter conquer her fear. He encourages her to picture things far more fearsome than thunder, only to reveal their silliness, like a giant squid named Daryl who loves singing Christmas carols!
9798217038725 In the Wild by Zadie Smith and Nick Laird, illustrated by Magenta Fox
A judo-obsessed guinea pig named Maud explores the great outdoors in this delightful tale. Faced with a new experience, Maud boldly ventures into the elements and makes a new hedgehog friend.
9780593697801 Worm Makes a Sandwich by Brianne Farley
Worm is eager to make you a sandwich. All he needs is garbage! Join Worm on a humorous journey through composting, culminating in a delicious meal made from fresh ingredients he helped grow. Informative and entertaining, this is an excellent introduction to the composting process.
9780593837344 Animals of the National Parks by Fifty-Nine Parks
Travel to our majestic National Parks to meet wonderfully wild animals in this stunning alphabet book packed with fun facts. Complete with a beautifully illustrated map of all the parks, this phenomenal book is perfect for nature lovers!
9781774883662 Bright Lights and Summer Nights by Shauntay Grant, illustrated by Zach Manbeck
Get ready to be captivated by this gorgeous bedtime story featuring Mother Moon as she gently lulls her star baby to sleep with dreamy tales of summer nights. This story sets the perfect mood for bedtime with its whimsical rhythm and enchanting imagery.
9781536238761 100 Goats and Granny! by Atinuke, illustrated by Lauren Hinds
It’s goats galore in this hilarious counting tale! Granny’s small flock quickly grows to 100, with mischievous goats following her everywhere and even escaping to go on wild adventures. Readers will love the chaos and comedy of this enjoyable story!
9781774882474 Sand Cakes by Kallie George, illustrated by Devon Holzwarth
Readers are whisked away to the beach in this upbeat tale about a young girl who makes culinary creations from sand. The bubbly rhymes are a joy to read aloud, and the eye-catching illustrations of sandy sweets skillfully capture the carefree charm of a beach day.
9781682637906 A Unicorn on a Unicycle by Lynda Graham-Barber, illustrated by Jordan Wray
This vivacious new book shows a parade of animals zooming down the street on various vehicles. Readers are encouraged to count the wheels on each means of transportation, creating an educational and whimsical tale.
9780593617755 Icy Fruit by Charlotte Cheng, illustrated by Vivian Mineker
This fascinating biography of a Taiwanese ice-pop entrepreneur is as cool as it gets! Determined to beat the heat, the author’s grandfather used the delicious fruits from Taiwan to create a refreshing frozen concoction that he shared with an entire nation and beyond.
9780593650998 If You Spot a Shell by Aimée Sicuro
If You Find a Leaf is one of my favorite fall books, so I was thrilled to see a summer edition featuring seashells. This gorgeous celebration of imagination demonstrates how a simple shell can transform into a myriad of objects. I love how it inspires children to create dazzling masterpieces featuring shells in unusual ways.
9780593622360 The Day the Crayons Made Friends by Drew Daywalt, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers
Duncan’s beloved crayons have disappeared again, but through a series of amusing letters, he discovers they are exploring his house and making unlikely friends in the process. Full of charming artwork and quirky characters, this is an engaging new adventure for this endearing series.
9780593519479 A Unicorn, a Dinosaur, and a Shark Walk into a Book by Jonathan Fenske
When a narrator announces that a unicorn, dinosaur, and shark are in the best book ever, they are less than impressed. What ensues is a hysterical story packed with funny banter and kid appeal! Kids will also love the follow-up tale, A Unicorn, a Dinosaur, and a Shark Were Riding a Bicycle.
9780593624463 Brave Buzzy Bee by Rima Fakih Slaiby and Theresa AlHayek, illustrated by Angela Li
This inspiring tale of persistence stars the endearing Buzzy Bee, who tirelessly trains for the famed Colony Race. On the big day, Buzzy finds the inner strength to be not only a fierce competitor but also a true friend and model of sportsmanship.
9780593523582 Mother of Sharks by Melissa Cristina Márquez, illustrated by Devin Elle Kurtz
Join Melissa, a young girl from Puerto Rico who loves the sea, as she discovers the magic of the underwater world and its inhabitants. Just as Melissa is about to leave the water, she meets a wise and friendly crab who teaches her the importance of preserving the ocean’s treasures. This exciting tale is perfect to read on a sunny day and will leave readers with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the sea.
9780593206096 Marianne the Maker by Kelly Corrigan and Claire Corrigan Lichty, illustrated by George Sweetland
With her days packed to the brim with activities, Marianne struggles to find time for her true passion: creating! Determined to invent, she hatches a secret plan to skip her dreaded soccer game. When it backfires, she learns the value of honesty and speaking up for what she truly wants. This is an excellent choice for young makers learning to find their voice.
9780593644638 Duck Duck Taco Truck by Laura Lavoie, illustrated by Teresa Martínez
Rollicking rhymes share the high-spirited story of two feuding food trucks in this funny beach read. When a goose moves in on a duck’s taco turf, the feuding fowls learn an essential lesson in collaboration versus conflict.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2018 and updated in 2025.
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]]>no no 9780448496399 Llama Llama Sand and Sun by Anna Dewdney
Summers are for spending time at the beach! With this touch-and-feel book, your baby joins Llama Llama and Mama Llama for a day of seaside adventure, splashing in the waves and building sandcastles. The bright illustrations and tactile touches are a great way to keep babies entertained.
9780593428214 Hello, World! Garden Time by Jill McDonald
One of my favorite parts about summer is the amazing produce that comes into season (corn, tomatoes, strawberries, oh my!). Introduce your little one to the magic of gardening with Hello, World! Garden Time, where they’ll learn how the fruits and vegetables we eat come from tiny seeds we plant in the garden. And don’t forget to check out the rest of the Hello, World! series to keep your toddler learning all year round.
9781536230239 Frog by Maggie Li illustrated by Maggie Li
Get ready for an exciting adventure – the lifecycle of a frog! This board book follows this amazing frog’s journey from a tiny egg to a cute tadpole, to a full-grown frog that can ribbit and hop around. With interactive features, little readers can be a part of the fun and learn all about these fascinating creatures.
9780593323571 The Smell of a Rainbow by Dawn Goldworm
It’s always a delight when a dazzling rainbow follows a summer sunshower. Imagine that you could also smell that rainbow, as world-famous perfume designer Dawn Goldworm did with this wildly inventive scented board book. With seven new scents — one for each color of the rainbow — this bright and whimsical book offers a unique and surprising way for little ones to follow their nose and learn about colors.
9781465467867 Is it Warm Enough for Ice Cream? by DK
This is perhaps the most important question of the season: Is it warm enough for ice cream? This board book is a highly visual and basic introduction to the seasonal change. It’s an excellent way to begin teaching your little reader that with the changing seasons comes new and fun activities to try. Ice cream, of course, is at the top of the list.
9780744091922 Smart Senses: Seeing Big, Seeing Small by Flo Fielding, illustrated by Jayri Gomez
Take your little ones on a thrilling journey through the senses! From the wonders of our eyesight to the magic of seeing big and small, this book will ignite your child’s imagination and inspire them to explore the world around them in new and exciting ways!
9780241351826 Spot Goes to the Beach by Eric Hill
Everyone loves Spot, and now the tail-wagging yellow puppy is ready for his day in the sun. This isn’t just any beach trip, though — today, Spot’s going to learn how to surf! Babies will love following along with Spot and his new friends, including a gutsy penguin.
9780823439782 Boat Book by Gail Gibbons
Gail Gibbons has a great series on all sorts of transportation, and Boat Book introduces babies to a whole fleet of floating vehicles. From little tugboats to underwater submarines to classic canoes, beginning readers will learn that boats come in all shapes and sizes, and serve us well for work and play.
9781465473165 Pop-up Peekaboo: Under the Sea by DK
This bright and colorful pop-up book is a charming and wonderful way to introduce your little book lover to the ocean and all the creatures that live there. From Diving Dolphin to Stripy Fish, there are a host of colorful sea creatures waiting to surprise and delight your baby under each flap. The rhyming structure is also an ideal way to support those developing language skills.
9780744072853 Guinea Pigs Go Bug Hunting by Kate Sheehy
Guinea pigs Bob and Ginger are off to hunt for bugs! Can they find one for every letter of the alphabet? From ants to zebra butterflies, toddlers can learn their ABCs while exploring 26 different kinds of insects.
9780593486634 Mrs. Peanuckle’s Earth Alphabet by Mrs. Peanuckle, illustrated by Jessie Ford
Get to know our planet in Mrs. Peanuckle’s Earth Alphabet and learn all about 26 natural-world experiences. From A to Z, this series that explores nature shares everything that makes Earth extraordinary.
9780553537239 A Ball for Daisy by Chris Raschka
This winner of the 2012 Caldecott Medal is the perfect way to help your toddler learn to cope with the loss of something special. Told through Raschka’s engaging, impressionistic illustrations, the bittersweet story of what happens when Daisy’s favorite toy pops teaches little ones a valuable lesson and is perfectly suited for long, play-filled days of summer.
9781465468420 Colors with Ladybug by DK
Summer is a time of vibrant, bright colors. Colors with Ladybug is a delightful and tactile adventure sure to spark your child’s imagination. Written in rhyming verse perfect for a read-aloud session, we follow the journey of a little ladybug as she discovers magical flowers and learns colors with her animal friends.
9780593303290 Dr. Seuss’s Summer Things by Dr. Seuss
Follow Dr. Seuss’s Thing One and Thing Two to the shore for summer fun! Readers will love watching these beloved characters as they swim, float, boat, and more. This book is perfect for getting kids excited about a trip to the beach, or a fun way to celebrate everything the season offers.
9780399162398 Red Wagon by Renata Liwska
Renata Liwska’s lively artwork is the star of this wonderfully imaginative tale for the youngest of readers. Lucy only wants to play with her brand-new red wagon, but her mother has chores for her to do. Fortunately, Lucy discovers that with her new wagon and a little imagination, anything is possible and fun can be had anywhere — a perfect lesson for all those summer playtime sessions.
9780399227745 The Very Lonely Firefly by Eric Carle
This board book is an innovative and creative tale starring one of summer’s most magical creatures: the firefly. A lonely firefly goes searching for other fireflies, only to find all manner of other glowing things in the darkness. Beautifully illustrated and with a perfect read-along cadence, this one has a surprise at the end that’s sure to light up your little one’s face.
9780593125649 Hello Zoo by Nicola Slater
Perfect for family trips to the zoo, this lift-the-flaps AND touch-and-feel board book is easy to tote along on fun summer days. Your little one can compare the vibrant animal pictures to the real-life animals all around and grow their vocabulary with foundational words.
9780593523797 The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s Garden Friends by Eric Carle
From a cat’s soft fur to the bumpy back of a frog, little hands will love this touch-and-feel story featuring the Very Hungry Caterpillar. Follow this beloved critter as he meets some friends in the garden.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2018 and updated in 2025.
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