Diverse Summer Reading List: 10 Must Read Picture Books.
Happy July, and welcome to our inaugural blog post! If you’re looking for diverse picture books dedicated to celebrating the summer season, you’ve come to the right place. Our posts are going to be mostly dedicated to highlighting picture book recommendations that feature diverse protagonists and/or authors. We hope you find these suggestions helpful to inspire young readers over the summer months.
I Got the Rhythm
by Connie Schofield-Morrison. Illustrated by Frank Morrison.
This book explores the power of music in the middle of the summer. A mother and daughter get caught up in the rhythm of the streets as they head to the park. The rhythm of the music takes over, and they have an unexpected dance session in their neighborhood.
The Hike
by Alison Farrell.
A must-read for any mini adventurer, this story tells us of friends adventuring through the forest. A quirky and engaging story that celebrates nature, exploring, and friendship. Parents and children alike will also love the included sketchbook.
Summer Color!
by Diana Murray, Illustrated by Zoe Persico
Illustrator Persico gives a colorful rendition of the palette of the summer season. Murray writes playful rhymes describing family activities, bright colors, and the smells and sounds of summer. Sure to be a preschool favorite.
What Can You Do with a Paleta?
by Carmen Tafolla, Illustrated by Magaty Morales
What is the best thing to have on a hot summer day? Why! Have a paleta, of course! This is a colorful story about a girl’s feelings about her favorite frozen treat, in her favorite place in the world: her barrio.
Summer Days and Nights
by Wong Herbert Yee
This delightful rhyming story recalls a young girl’s summertime adventures. Armed with her handy net, and lots of curiosity, she discovers lots of interesting finds before heading off to bed.
Birdsong
by Julie Flett
This beautiful story follows Katherena as she adapts to the change of the seasons and moving away from her old home. With the help of a friendly neighbor, she learns to develop her interests and learns of friendship, and of loss.
The Wonders of Summer
by Kealy Cannor Lonning, Illustrated by Lora Look
In this author’s touching tribute to her adopted daughter, she relates all the fun activities her daughter Summer and father share over the year’s sunniest season. Children will love this simple and sweet story.
The Camping Trip
by Jennifer K. Mann
In this fun story Ernestine braves new experiences as she prepares to go on a camping adventure. She learns the value of hard work, explores the outdoors, and creates great memories with her cousin Samantha.
The Other Side
by Jacqueline Woodson, Illustrated by E.B Lewis
This story renders summer in beautiful watercolor illustrations. During racial segregation, two girls form a bond of friendship. This is an excellent read for parents to initiate a conversation about the history of racial discrimination.
Jabari Jumps
by Gaia Cornwall
Jabari braves the summer pool by striking up the determination to make his first leap off the diving board. We love this picture book as it shows the character’s vulnerability, as well as resiliency, as he braves this new experience.
