10 Beloved Books for Summer
“I don’t know exactly what a prayer is.
I do know how to pay attention, how to fall down
into the grass, how to kneel down in the grass,
how to be idle and blessed, how to stroll through the fields,
which is what I have been doing all day.
Tell me, what else should I have done?”
― Mary Oliver from the poem The Summer Day
As the days stretch longer and the sun shines brighter, we’ve been soaking up every moment of this season. Mornings are often spent on adventures—hiking through forested trails, splashing in cool streams, or simply exploring nature. But by the time the sun is high, we retreat indoors, seeking the quiet comfort of a good book. These afternoons have become our favorite reading moments, where we gather and let the rhythm of stories slow us down—immersing ourselves in tales of sun-drenched days and the magic of the season.
This summer, we decided to slow down and let go of reading trackers, library awards, or any pressure to reach a specific number of hours spent reading. Instead, my simple goal was to read more aloud—embracing the joy of sharing stories together.
Below, I’ve shared some of our favorite summertime books—both picture books and chapter books—that have brought so much joy to our long summer afternoons. I hope they offer your family the same warmth and wonder.
Do you have books you're especially drawn to in the summer? I'd love to hear your favorites.
There are countless book lists with wonderful selections, but if you’re pressed for time, I always return to a few trusted sources (below). These lists consistently offer treasures that fit perfectly with our family’s pace and interests.
School recommendations
10 picture books, recommended for ages 4-8:
Over and Under the Canyon by Kate Messner - I am a fan of anything Kate Messner creates for her acclaimed Over and Under series. This story follows mother and son as they explore a desert slot canyon. I love the pacing of these stories.
Roxaboxen by Alice McLerran - I love that Roxaboxen is a real place that children created using their imagination. I have read this book for years and it inspires our boys to get outside and create their own special place.
The Snail and the Whale by Julia Donaldson - Follow a tiny snail’s journey to see the world and realize that even the smallest among us can help others. The frolicking poetic language makes this one such a fun read aloud.
Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall - This summer we worked up our own courage to face fear just like Jabari. Diving boards can be so scary! I love how the boys see themselves in this little boy’s day at the pool.
Watercress by Andrea Wang - This book is beautiful in its illustrations and its poetic language. This is a story about sharing memories as a family, even the very painful ones and the way our heritage shapes us.
Island Boy by Barbara Cooney - In one short book we get a view of the lives of four generations living on a New England coastal island. If only!
Pond by Jim LaMarche - Another book that encourages children to make their own place in this world. No special equipment required. This is a treasure.
A Camping Spree for Mr. Magee by Chris Van Dusen - I love all his books about Mr. Magee, they are delightful and playful and comical all rolled into a cute story about Magee’s shortcomings. Makes for a great read aloud or beginning reader.
Thundercake by Patricia Polacco - I’ll read anything with her name on it! Such a creative way to shine new light on a thunderstorm. Do your children run for cover under the bedcovers or do they anxiously await that clap of thunder by chanting a countdown?
The Car Washing Street by Denise Lewis Patrick - We’ve read this book for years and marvel what it would be like to live in the city on this street! No money is spent, no distance is traveled, nothing extraordinary happens, but it's a memorable Saturday morning.
5 chapter books to read aloud, recommended for ages 5-12:
My Father’s Dragon Series by Ruth Stiles Gannett - These stories work very well as a first chapter book for early readers as well. The ways Elmer Elevator outwits the animals on Wild Island is very charming. He is brave and clever and you’ll gobble this series up quickly.
The Wild Robot Series by Peter Brown - This book series’ appeal lies in its engaging plot, memorable characters, and ability to make the reader think deeply about the world around them.
Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren
James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett - Tells the story of orphaned Mary Lennox who was sent to live with a reclusive uncle in Yorkshire. Through the tending of a small bit of land she unearths more than just plants and weeds but new understanding about herself and the people that grow to love her.
