Kids Picks
When I was young, one of my favorite things about summer was all of the new books that would come out. I used to wait at the bookstore for the latest release on whatever series I happened to be reading. Things are different now, and kids would rather play on their electronics and visit social media than pick up a good book. I can’t say enough how amazing it is to get lost in a good book and leave this world for even just a little while. There are a lot of new titles out and I challenge you to read as many as you can!
Ages 3-5
“Something’s Wrong! A Bear, a Hare, and Some Underwear” by Jory John
You know when you have the feeling that something just isn’t right? Well, Jeff the bear is feeling that way today. He did everything he was supposed to. He ate breakfast, watered his plant, combed his fur … so what did he forget? He asks his friend Anders the Rabbit if he knows what is wrong. Maybe it’s the fact that he is wearing his underwear over his fur?
“Thank You, Thank You, Thank You” by Melissa Peck
Gratitude is so incredibly important, and it’s never too early to start instilling that in children. There is so much to be thankful for in life, from the big things like the mountains and the oceans, to the small things like hugs and flowers. Everything deserves a big thank you for making each day a better one!
Ages 6-8
“And Then Comes Summer” by Tom Brenner
Summer is just the best! Let’s hear it for flip-flops and late-night swims, barbecues and bonfires, lemonade stands and fireworks, lazy days and ice cream trucks! There is something for everyone to enjoy in the summer. When you are counting the days until school gets out, pass the time by making your bucket list of everything you want to do during the most wonderful season of all!
“Duck on a Bike” by David Shannon
Can a duck ride a bike? Why not? One day, Duck got an idea that he was going to ride a bike. He waddled on over, climbed on, and off he went. He rode past Cow and waved hello, then he rode past Sheep, Horse and all of the other animals. Each one was thinking how silly it was to see Duck riding a bike. But when a group of kids leave their bikes outside, it’s time for all of the animals to join in on the bike riding fun!
Ages 9-12
“Ali Cross: Like Father, Like Son” by James Patterson
Fans of James Patterson know detective Alex Cross very well. Ali Cross is Alex’s son and already is following in his father’s footsteps. If there is a mystery to be solved, everyone knows that Ali will figure it out. When someone is hurt, Ali has no trouble finding the source, and when a crime occurs at a concert near his school, Ali sets off on this newest investigation. Unfortunately, this time it gets dangerous, fast. Having a father who is a detective is going to come in handy!
“Wink” by Rob Harrell
Ross is a 12-year-old boy who was recently diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. He just wants to be a normal seventh-grader. He doesn’t want to be sick or lose his hair or be called “the cancer kid.” His friends don’t know how to talk to him anymore, and it feels like everyone is pulling away. Ross turns to music. He starts a band and learns how to let loose and start to embrace his life. Based on author Rob Harrell’s real-life experience, “Wink” will have you thinking about Ross long after you’ve read the last page. Hilarious, heartbreaking, and so very real, “Wink” leaves a lasting impression.
