Summer Reading List: 20 Beautiful Books for Children

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Beautiful Summer Books For Children

When I was a child, our family camping trips during school breaks were the highlight of my summer. Sure, reading in the backseat often left me feeling car sick, but those moments were a small price to pay for the joy they brought. I fondly remember those lazy afternoons, sunbathing by the pool with a gentle breeze rustling the pages of my book, and my brother by my side, lost in his own adventure. These moments capture the simple pleasures of childhood and the magic that a good book can bring.

You probably have similar memories that make you smile. Let these 20 beautiful summer books for children transport you and your little ones back to those simpler times. Dive into a world of pure, sun-soaked joy and let these delightful reads make any sunny day even brighter!

1. Good Night, Good Beach

Author: Joy Cowley
Illustrator: Hilary Jean Tapper

An evocative and beautiful bedtime picture book about summer days spent at the beach – sandy feet, waves hush-hushing and a shell under the pillow – by internationally renowned author, Joy Cowley.

Summer holidays by the sea have a rhythm all of their own. With a few well-chosen words Cowley transports us instantly to a childhood summer of long hot days, every minute spent at the beach collecting treasures and listening to the sound of waves.

This simple poem is a perfect read-aloud bedtime book to share with babies, toddlers and the whole family, all summer long.

2. Flotsam

Author/Illustrator: David Wiesner

A bright, science-minded boy goes to the beach equipped to collect and examine flotsam-anything floating that has been washed ashore. Bottles, lost toys, small objects of every description are among his usual finds. But there’s no way he could have prepared for one particular discovery: a barnacle-encrusted underwater camera, with its own secrets to share . . . and to keep.

3. Summer Evening

Author: Walter de la Mare
Illustrator: Carolina Rabei

The sandy cat by the Farmer’s chair
Mews at his knee for dainty fare;
Old Rover in his moss-greened house
Mumbles a bone, and barks at a mouse.

Carolina Rabei’s stunning illustrations beautifully illuminate Walter de la Mare’s glorious celebration of a balmy summer’s evening. One of four exceptional Walter de la Mare picture books that form a seasonal set, each with complementing colour palates and illustrations by rising young star Carolina Rabei.

4. A Day for Sandcastles

Author: Jonarno Lawson
Illustrator: Qin Leng

A dazzling wordless picture book celebrates creative problem-solving, teamwork, and the sun-splashed wonder of a day at the beach.

The creators of the acclaimed Over the Shop evoke a perfect summer beach day–and themes of creativity, cooperation, flexibility, and persistence–all without a word in this sun-warmed, salt-stained delight of a story. A busload of beachgoers spills out onto the sand for a day of fun and frolic. Three siblings begin work on a castle, patting and shaping the sand as the sun arcs over the sky. Time and again, their progress is halted: a windswept hat topples their creation; a toddler ambles through it; the tide creeps close, and then too close. Meeting each demolition with fresh determination, the builders outdo themselves time and again, until the moment arrives to pile back into the bus for home. An authentic portrait of sibling cooperation–and glorious inspiration for creative people of all ages–A Day for Sandcastles channels the thrill of surrendering expectations on the path to infinite possibility.

5. The Camping Trip

Author/Illustrator: Jennifer K. Mann

Ernestine has never been camping before, but she’s sure it will be lots of fun … won’t it?

My Aunt Jackie invited me to go camping with her and my cousin Samantha this weekend. I’ve never been camping before, but I know I will love it…

Ernestine is beyond excited to go camping. She follows the packing list carefully (new sleeping bag! new flashlight! special snack mix made with Dad!) so she knows she is ready when the weekend arrives. But she quickly realizes that nothing could have prepared her for how hard it is to set up a tent, never mind fall asleep in it, or that swimming in a lake means that there will be fish … eep! Will Ernestine be able to enjoy the wilderness, or will it prove to be a bit too far out of her comfort zone?

In an energetic illustrated story about a first sleepover under the stars, acclaimed author-illustrated Jennifer K. Mann reminds us that opening your mind to new experiences, no matter how challenging, can lead to great memories (and a newfound taste for marshmallows).

6. On a Summer Night

Author: Deborah Hopkinson
Illustrator: Kenard Pak

Step into the quiet magic of this celebration of summer nighttime and the mystery of a world lit differently by the moon.

On a summer night, the world is still. Even the crickets think it’s too hot to sing. But all at once, a girl wakes. In the kitchen, the cat rolls onto its soft paws. A neighbor’s small white dog yaps, a brown rabbit peeks from a hedge, and the leaves of a cherry tree begin to stir in the breeze. Readers witness and wonder: Who has woken them all? In this soothing bedtime story, the quiet of a warm summer night is brought to vivid, magical life with the soft steps of bare feet, the padding of paws, and the bright, golden light of the moon. One by one, each creature is roused and then gently returned to sleep in a lovely and lyrical exploration of wakefulness, restfulness, and the mysterious calm of the night.

PERFECT FOR BEDTIME . . . OR ANYTIME: This beautifully illustrated children’s book is ideal for soothing young readers to sleep-or encouraging a contemplative break in an energetic day. The story’s engagement with the wonders of nighttime will help children feel comforted by the dark and the prospect of going to sleep rather than afraid of them.

READ-ALOUD READINESS: With its lyricism and short refrains, this gentle story is just right for sharing.

CONNECTION TO NATURE: This magical book gradually reveals the moon as a character as it wakes girl, cat, dog, rabbit, tree, air, and cloud in turn-and connects them to one another through the welcoming quiet and wonder of a world gilded by moonlight.

THE POWER OF SLOWING DOWN: Picture books are often wonderful excuses to slow down and share a moment of gentleness in kids’ (and parents’) busy lives; this book feels like a deep breath and offers a chance to wonder and reflect.

Perfect for:- Kids who can’t sleep on hot summer nights – Parents, grandparents, and caregivers seeking a sweet bedtime book – Librarians and storytime leaders looking for a summer read-aloud – Gift givers who want to share a beautiful, lyrical book with someone special – Readers of such classic bedtime stories for kids as Goodnight Moon and The Going to Bed Book

7. Hike

Author/Illustrator: Pete Oswald

Take to the trails for a celebration of nature – and a day spent with Dad.

In the cool and quiet early light of morning, a father and child wake up. Today they’re going on a hike. Follow the duo into the mountains as they witness the magic of the wilderness, overcome challenges, and play a small role in the survival of the forest. By the time they return home, they feel alive – and closer than ever – as they document their hike and take their place in family history.

In detail-rich panels and textured panoramas, Pete Oswald perfectly paces this nearly wordless adventure, allowing readers to pause for subtle wonders and marvel at the views. A touching tribute to the bond between father and child, with resonant themes for Earth Day, Hike is a breath of fresh air.

8. The Pickwicks' Picnic: A Counting Adventure

Author: Carol Brendler
Illustrator: Rene Kurilla

Community cooperation turns a traffic jam into an opportunity for fun in this inventive counting book starring a pair of clever canine siblings.

In this highly original counting tale, the Pickwicks—Pip and Peach, Mom and Daddy—leave the hot hazy city for a picnic by the shore. Along the way, they are passed by 2 scooters, 3 jeeps, and more—until they hit a sudden roadblock of 10 cruisers. Traffic stops and drivers grow grumpy, but Pip and Peach know exactly how to turn an unexpected glitch into a festive occasion for everyone! Engaging rhythm and detail-filled art reward repeated readings of Carol Brendler and Renée Kurilla’s countable account of a very special picnic.

9. The Summer Nick Taught His Cats to Read

Author: Curtis Manley
Illustrator: Kate Berube

School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year

“A marvelous debut…Sometimes it takes the right nudge to fall in love with books.” – Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“This quirky tale filled with subtle humor makes a fun read-aloud, especially for cat lovers, literacy lovers, or anyone looking for a great story.” – School Library Journal (starred review)

It’s not easy to teach a cat to read, but one boy tries to anyway in this sweet and silly picture book debut that captures the challenges and rewards of learning to read.

Nick loves to read books–and he loves to play with his cats, Verne and Stevenson. So naturally Nick decides it’s a great idea to teach his cats to read. But Verne and Stevenson don’t appreciate when Nick wakes them up with a flashcard that says NAP. Nick finally piques Verne’s interest with words like MOUSE and FISH. But not Stevenson’s. While Nick and Verne go to the library, Stevenson hides under the porch. Will Nick ever find a way to share his love of reading with his feline friends?

10. Wave

Author/Illustrator: Suzy Lee

In this evocative wordless book, internationally acclaimed artist Suzy Lee tells the story of a little girl’s day at the beach. Stunning in their simplicity, Lee’s illustrations, in just two shades of watercolour, create a vibrant story full of joy and laughter.New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Book 2008

11. Clem and Crab

Author/Illustrator: Fiona Lumbers

Clem is an explorer, a collector, a protector of the seas! Treasure hunting on her beloved beach, she stumbles across Crab, his claw stuck in a plastic bag. Crab will be much safer and happier in the city with Clem, but doesn’t he belong on the beach?
A stunningly illustrated timely tale of cleaning up our beaches, with the message that every small action helps.

12. Seashells: More Than a Home

Author: Melissa Stewart
Illustrator: Sarah S. Brannen

Award-winning nonfiction author Melissa Stewart reveals the surprising ways seashells provide more than shelter to the mollusks that inhabit them.

Young naturalists discover thirteen seashells in this elegant introduction to the remarkable versatility of shells. Dual-layered text highlights how shells provide more than a protective home in this expository nonfiction exploration. The informative secondary text underscores characteristics specific to each shell. Elegant watercolor illustrations create a scrapbook feel, depicting children from around the world observing and sketching seashells across shores.

13. Julian Is a Mermaid

Author/Illustrator: Jessica Love

A glimpse of three women dressed as mermaids leaves one boy filled with wonder and ready to dazzle the world.

“Every choice Jessica Love makes imbues the story with charm, tenderness and humor” New York TImes Book Review

While riding the subway home with his Nana one day, Julian notices three women spectacularly dressed up. Their hair billows in brilliant hues, their dresses end in fishtails, and their joy fills the train carriage. When Julian gets home, daydreaming of the magic he’s seen, all he can think about is dressing up just like the ladies and making his own fabulous mermaid costume. But what will Nana think about the mess he makes – and even more importantly – what will she think about how Julian sees himself?

14. Bubbles . . . UP!

Author: Jacqueline Davies
Illustrator: Sonia Sánchez

An everyday visit to the pool transforms into an unforgettable celebration of the water in this remarkable picture book from Jacqueline Davies, the award-winning author of children’s classic The Lemonade War, and Sonia Sánchez, the illustrator of Meg Medina’s Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away.

A day at the community pool is full of unwater magic—dunking and diving with friends; somersaulting, walking on your hands, and bursting up through the surface like a tortoise. But when a thunderstorm comes and a little brother ventures too close to the pool’s edge, will our main character be quick enough and brave enough to save the day?

In this energetic read-aloud, the words swim off the pages as the underwater world comes to life through lush, dynamic illustrations and visual poetry. Journey to an imaginative world where, always and forever, bubbles . . . rise . . . UP!

15. Captain Jack and the Pirates

Author: Peter Bently
Illustrator: Helen Oxenbury

From the award-winning creator of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and Peter Bently comes this utterly delightful picture book, that sees a family day out at the beach turn into a wonderful piratical adventure! Make-believe fun, illustrated by picture book star, Helen Oxenbury, will capture the imaginations of children everywhere. This is sure to be a classic.

16. The Little Book Of Camping

Author: Laurie Friedman
Illustrator: Zack Bush

Camping is easy if you know what to do! The Little Book Of Campingprovides a simple, fun roadmap for young boys and girls, preschoolers, and toddlers of all ages to learn what they need to know about camping.

The Little Book Of series introduces young readers to a wide range of ideas, activities, values, and emotions. With engaging text and warm, kid-friendly illustrations, the books teach children that having fun, learning, and doing the right thing doesn’t have to be complicated. Kids can enjoy the journey and fun of reading while discovering the world around them, one little book at a time. That’s what The Little Book Of series is all about!

This book comes with adorable illustrations and is a joy to read with the whole family. It’s available in paperback and Kindle formats. Add it to your shopping cart now and your child will be filled with excitement as he/she learns to pitch tents—in the woods, their backyard, or even their bedroom—and have a real campout.

The Little Book Of series is written for kids 3-11. The books are perfect for boys, girls, early readers, primary school students, and even toddlers. This series is an excellent resource for counselors, parents, and teachers alike.

17. Changing Tides

Autho/Illustrator: Júlia Moscardó

When Theo and his mother, Simone, become part of Lula’s family, she isn’t sure what to expect. As they all spend a holiday at the seaside, the new siblings learn to work together to create a beautiful sandcastle. But once disaster strikes, will their relationship weather the storm?

This beautiful picture book by Júlia Moscardó explores the challenges and joys of forming a new family and gaining a sibling. With evocative illustrations and beautiful text, this book will immerse your little reader in the world of the seaside and in the ups and downs of forming new friendships.

18. The Midnight Fair

Author: Gideon Sterer
Illustrator: Mariachiara Di Giorgio

A spectacular, surreal and cinematic wordless picture book about the secret life of animals.

Far from the city, but not quite in the countryside, lies a fairground. When night falls, and the fair is empty, something unexpected happens. Wild animals emerge from the trees, a brave raccoon pulls a lever, and the rollercoasters and rides explode back into bright, neon life. Now it’s time for the woodland creatures to have some fun…

19. Farah Loves Mangos

Author/illustrator: Sarthak Sinha

Farah loves mangos! She could eat them all day long and she wouldn’t mind living in one either. Every summer when she visits her Grandpa they always pick the ripe fruit from his mango tree. This year, however, the tree is empty! Farah puts her mind to it and decides she will make the tree grow fruit. But perhaps Farah will learn there is more to a mango tree than just the fruit it bears?

20. Chirri & Chirra, Under the Sea

Author: Kaya Doi
Translator: David Boyd

On their sixth adventure, Chirri and Chirra bicycle beneath the waves, discovering the beauty of coral and the deliciousness of marine edibles.

Chirri and Chirra are pedaling along when they find a cave. At the end of the tunnel, they see a light. Oh! They are under the sea! They pedal through a maze of color and pass through an opening in the seaweed, into a scene of seashells of all colors and shapes. Naturally, they come upon sea treats, such as parfait à la conch and marine soda jelly topped with pearl cream. This is the happy, lovely world of Chirri and Chirra, where they stumble on the most wonderful surprises.

Born in Tokyo, Japan, Kaya Doi graduated with a degree in design from Tokyo Zokei University. She got her start in picture books by attending the Atosaki Juku Workshop, held at a Tokyo bookshop specializing in children’s books. Since then she has created many picture books featuring her delicate color-pencil drawings. She lives in Chiba Prefecture and maintains a strong interest in environmental and animal welfare issues. Since the earthquake of 2011 she has been active in recovery and shelter efforts for abandoned pets.

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