This list includes laugh-out-loud stories, beautiful picture books, and tales that encourage creativity, kindness, and imagination all perfect for sharing together before kindergarten begins.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Reading for Kindergarten
How much should my child read during the summer?
Even 15–20 minutes of reading together each day can help build vocabulary, listening skills, and excitement about books.
Does my child need to read independently before kindergarten?
No! Listening to books read aloud is one of the most important ways children develop literacy skills.
What types of books are best for rising kindergarteners?
Funny read-alouds, interactive books, rhyming stories, and books that spark conversation are all wonderful choices.
BOOKS TO GET KIDS EXCITED ABOUT KINDERGARTEN
Perfect for easing first-day jitters and building excitement about starting school
The King of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes; illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton, 2019
Filled with colorful illustrations and affirming text, this playful book is sure to generate excitement about starting kindergarten. When a mother deems her son the “king of 
kindergarten”, he gains the confidence to face anything. With a giant smile, he listens to his teacher, shares, plays, and makes new friends. This charming story will leave readers eager to explore their own royal school kingdoms.
We also love The Queen of Kindergarten.
If I Built a School by Chris Van Dusen, 2019
Rhyming text and Chris Van Dusen’s signature artwork shine in this entertaining school-themed story about a boy who dreams of designing his own school. The vivid illustrations and imaginative storyline are sure to inspire children to start planning their own idyllic schools. The other two in the series, I Built a Car and If I Built a House are must-haves as well!
All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman, 2018
(Ages 3 and up)
What better way to ease children’s nerves about starting school than with the message that everyone is welcome? “No matter how you start your day. What you wear when you play. Or if you come from far away. All are welcome here. In our classroom safe and sound. Fears are lost and hope is found. Raise your hand, we’ll go around. All are welcome here.”
Poignant language paired with colorful illustrations featuring a diverse group of students driving home the message that school is a safe and welcoming place to all makes All Are Welcome one of the best books about school I have ever seen. This is sure to become a classic classroom read aloud that is reread every year.
A Squiggly Story by Andrew Larsen; illustrated by Mike Lowery, 2016
When a young boy yearns to write a story like his big sister, she encourages him to start with a letter. He jots down the letter I and from that one straight line, grows a tale full of imagination. I adore how this story builds children’s confidence in their ability and encourages them to create.
BOOKS ABOUT CONFIDENCE, PERSEVERANCE & GROWTH MINDSET
These stories encourage children to try new things, make mistakes, and believe in themselves.
The Dot by Peter Reynolds, 2003
When a discouraged girl named Vashti believes she cannot draw, her art teacher encourages her to make a simple dot. When the teacher then frames her dot, Vashti is inspired to make more artwork and creates her own gallery full of work. This deceptively simple story inspires readers to believe in themselves and gives them the confidence to make their own mark.
Boxitects by Kim Smith, 2020
This inspiring book takes the idea of creating with boxes and wraps it into an entertaining story with bright colors, imaginative creations, and a message about teamwork!
Meg is excited to attend maker school and further develop her impressive skills of building with boxes. When she meets Simone, a fellow boxitect, however, she becomes jealous of the new student and dismayed when they are forced to work as a team. After a failed experiment, the two engineers realize they both have something valuable to offer and they can construct something even more amazing when working together.
Instructions on how to build a “Boxitect Tunnel” and “Boxitect Castle” are included in the back for little builders.
The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi; illustrated by Lorena Alvarez, 2020
This story is perfect for empowering children to take risks, work hard, and embrace mistakes. Rhyming text and colorful illustrations follow a young girl who struggles to learn to ride a bike. Just as she is determined to walk forever, she meets the Magical Yet. Presented as a glowing pink flower-like object, the Magical Yet teaches the girl that with determination, practice, and grit, she can tackle any problem.
The engaging illustrations feature a diverse group of children learning to accomplish a variety of tasks giving this charming book wide appeal.
Fly by Mark Teague, 2019
No words are needed to understand the hilarious conversation between a mother bird and her baby in Mark Teague’s new book, Fly . When a mama robin encourages her little one to fly on his own, the hatchling comes up with several funny alternatives. This wordless wonder made both my children and me laugh at the relatable interaction between parent and child and the sweet ending always resulted in a warm hug.
The Three Ninja Pigs by Corey Rosen Schwartz ; illustrated by Dan Santat, 2012
This action-packed fractured fairy tale puts an exciting new spin on an old classic. When an intimidating wolf comes knocking on their door, three pigs decide to train at their local ninja school to learn self-defense. When the first two drop out early, their hardworking sister saves the day. With eye-catching illustrations, tons of amusing puns, and an entertaining storyline with great messaging, The Three Ninja Pigs is a real winner.
BOOKS ABOUT KINDNESS, FRIENDSHIP & SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING
Wonderful choices for helping children navigate friendships and classroom relationships.
You Matter by Christian Robinson, 2020
If ever there was a book that a child NEEDS to hear, it is this one. YOU MATTER by Christian Robinson combines his beautiful signature artwork with a message that each of us is important. With just the right amount of humor mixed in with the simple text, this is a book that will resonate with the youngest listeners to the oldest readers.
One by Kathryn Otoshi, 2008
This brilliant book uses numbers and colors to create a clever story about bullying and acceptance. Red is hot headed and enjoys picking on Blue. The other colors are too intimidated to help until the number One enters and teaches them all a meaningful lesson. This is one of my favorite books that is a must-read.
A Sick Day for Amos McGee by Philip C. Stead; illustrated by Erin E. Stead, 2010
This is one of my all-time favorite picture books. It’s message of empathy and kindness is so incredibly heartwarming and the award-winning illustrations are absolutely charming.
Amos McGee works at the zoo and always makes time to give special attention to the animals. When he stays home from work one day due to illness, his friends make the trip to take care of him in return. This sweet and tender story is filled with amusing details that draw the reader in and will make children want to revisit for multiple readings.
Saturday by Oge Mora, 2019
Caldecott Honor Winner, Oge Mora, is back with another outstanding book filled with gorgeous collage-style illustrations and a heartwarming storyline with a powerful message of resilience.
Ava’s mother works hard all week and Saturday is the one day they have to spend together. This Saturday, Ava and her mom are looking forward to their typical weekend routine, but are met with difficulties at every turn. With each mishap, Ava’s mother reassures her that the day will still be special. When Ava’s mother realizes that she has forgotten the tickets to a puppet show, however, she is the one who melts down. Ava in return gathers the strength to cheer her mom up and they return home to have one last adventure of the day. With stunning artwork and themes of family and resilience, there is so much to love about this remarkable story!
Zip Zap Wickety Wack by Matthew Diffee, 2025
(Ages 4 and up)
With its hilarious storyline, witty dialogue, beautiful illustrations, and thoughtful message about sharing, this book truly has it all! When a sheep and a goat argue over who gets to say “Baa,” an alien swoops in to teach them the value of sharing in the funniest, most delightful way. Highly recommend!
BOOKS THAT REINFORCE KINDERGARTEN SKILLS
Fun stories that naturally support important early learning concepts. These books reinforce important kindergarten skills such as alphabet recognition, counting, rhyming, and listening comprehension through engaging stories children will love.
SuperHero ABC by Bob McLeod, 2006
What better way to get kids excited about the alphabet than using super heroes to introduce them? Using each letter of the alphabet, a new super hero is introduced with descriptions of his or her powers. The characters are diverse and the large, colorful illustrations are filled with amusing details.
1-2-3 Peas (Peas series) by Keith Baker, 2012
Keith Baker’s series about a group of anthropomorphic peas is a perfect way to introduce or review letters, numbers, colors, and seasons. In 1-2-3 Peas, flowing rhymes follow the peas as they perform comical actions as they count up to one hundred. The majority of the book counts by tens providing excellent practice for children while engaging with the captivating artwork. As an added bonus there is a ladybug that appears on each page that is fun to hunt for. I also highly recommend the other books in the series, LMNO Peas, LMNO Peaquel, Hap-pea All Year.
Rhyming Dust Bunnies by Jan Thomas, 2009
Rhyming is an important skill for new kindergartners to know and what better way to reinforce it than by reading a book full of silly rhymes? This comical story stars four colorful, fuzzy dust bunnies who love to speak in rhyme. Prepare for giggles when one dust bunny starts blurting out some unexpected words that break their rhyming pattern.
Chickens to the Rescue by John Himmelman, 2006
This book is as fun to read aloud as it is to listen to. A group of enthusiastic chickens appear on each page to solve a crisis on their farm. Ranging from making dinner to getting cows out of a tree, there is no emergency too big for these impressive chickens. Each two-page spread presents a different disaster on each day helping to reinforce days of the week to young children.
BOOKS GUARANTEED TO MAKE KIDS LAUGH
Humor is one of the best ways to build a love of reading and these books have educational benefits too!
Go and Get With Rex by David LaRochelle, illustrated by Mike Wohnoutka, 2024
(Ages 3 and up)
Every Pre-K and Kindergarten teacher is going to want to get their hands on this hysterical book that is perfect for introducing letters. When an unseen narrator challenges two kids and their dog Rex to play a game, they are tasked with retrieving items that begin with certain letters. Each time, Rex brings back a surprise that also shockingly fits the assignment. From the alliterative text highlighting each letter to the comical illustrations and the absolutely perfect ending, there is so much to love about this story.
Interrupting Chicken by David Ezra Stein, 2010
(Ages 4 and up)
It’s time for bed and Little Red excitedly awaits her Papa’s bedtime stories. As he reads each classic fairy tale, the exuberant Little Red can’t help but interrupt each one with comical results. This enchanting Caldecott Honor book is a ton of fun to read aloud.
The Book That Almost Rhymed by Omar Abed, illustrated by Hatem Aly, 2024
(Ages 4 and up)
With its clever storyline featuring sibling rivalry turned cute collaboration, this is without a doubt one of my favorite books of the year so far! When a young boy tries to share the rhyming story he wrote, his sister interrupts with her own comical edits. It is almost impossible not to giggle while reading this humorous book as the rhythmic text is interrupted with unexpected twists in the story. The best part is how it all comes together in a heartfelt ending.
Every Monday Mabel by Jashar Awan, 2025
(Ages 4 and up)
It’s impossible not to smile while reading this delightful story about a young girl and her cherished Monday morning routine. Each week, Mabel eagerly prepares for what she believes is the greatest thing in the world …a garbage truck. With bright, expressive illustrations and an upbeat storyline, the book expertly captures the joy found in life’s small moments. Having children who were also once obsessed with garbage trucks, this story struck a special chord in my heart.
Dandy by Ame Dyckman; illustrated by Charles Santoso, 2019
(Ages 4 and up)
Dandy is the hilarious story of a daddy lion who does everything he can to rid his pristine lawn of the invasive weed while his daughter adopts the dandelion as her new friend. This humorous and gratifying story is one that both adults and children will enjoy!
How to Train A Train by Jason Carter Eaton; illustrated by John Rocco, 2013
Who wouldn’t want a train as a pet? A young boy helpfully describes how to identify what kind of train is the right pet for you, how to catch one, and then how to care for it. Filled with tongue-and-cheek humor and beautiful illustrations, children and adults will not be able to resist this clever story.
BOOKS THAT SPARK CREATIVITY & IMAGINATION
Perfect for inspiring imaginative play all summer long.
If You Spot a Shell by Aimée Sicuro, 2024
If You Find a Leaf is one of my absolute favorite books for fall, so I was thrilled to see this new summer-themed story from Aimée Sicuro. This wonderful celebration of imagination invites readers to see seashells in a whole new way. Based on their varying shapes, they could be wheels on a bike, a twisty slide, a kite, or so much more! The eye-catching illustrations integrate shells into beautiful artwork and instructions in the back even encourage children to make their own shell creations.
Ahoy by Sophie Blackall, 2024
Imagination abounds in this exceptional story from award-winning creator Sophie Blackall. As a busy mother attempts to vacuum a rug, she gets pulled into her son’s inventive game transforming their ordinary living room into the high seas. I absolutely adore this joyful celebration of pretend play.
The Little Red Fort by Brenda Maier; illustrated by Sonia Sanchez, 2018
Filled with a spunky protagonist, lively illustrations, and engaging text, you will not want to miss this fun take on the classic folktale, “The Little Red Hen”. I can’t tell you how many forts this book as inspired in our house!
Oh Dear, Look What I Got! by Michael Rosen, illustrated by Helen Oxenbury, 2025
(Ages 2 and up)
The dynamic duo behind the beloved classic We’re Going on a Bear Hunt reunites for another enchanting read-aloud for little ones. When a young boy goes shopping at the market, the vendors mishear his requests and send him home with a comical collection of animals that rhyme with the items he actually needs.
Kids will delight in guessing which animal comes next, chiming in on the playful refrain, and laughing along with each turn of the page. Charming, clever, and irresistibly fun, this joyful story has all the makings of a future classic.
EASY READERS
There is no expectation that children should know how to read going into kindergarten. Many kindergarten programs begin the year by reviewing the alphabet and then start to focus on consonant vowel consent (CVC) words such as mat, pig, log, etc.so that children learn to decode.
If your little one has expressed an interest in learning to read, however, and would like to start tackling books, I recommend the following books:
Charge Into Reading by Brooke Vitalie, illustrated by Katarzyna Jasinka, 2025
Created using the Science of Reading and developed in consultation with Orton-Gillingham–trained literacy specialist Marisa Ware, this series of decodable books is designed to help children learn to read by sounding out the words on the page. Each book focuses on one foundational skill at a time, beginning with basic phonetic sounds. Once readers gain confidence, they can progress through the series to tackle consonant blends, digraphs, and long vowel words. Helpful prompts at the end of each book reinforce the skills introduced and support continued practice.
With colorful illustrations and engaging stories, these books offer an inviting and effective starting point for children beginning their reading journey. Highly recommend.
Dash Into Reading series by Amelia Murdock, 2017
It is rare to find a primer series so beautifully illustrated and so helpful in building literacy skills. Each book begins with a sound guide of the letters used, sight words that will appear in the book, and a blending path to combine the letters to form words.
The stories themselves contain enough humor and action to keep kids engaged and excited for the next tale. The stories grow in difficulty level, so that children are always building on what they read
These books have a charming, wholesome feel to them that both parents and children will enjoy.
See Zip Zap by David Milgrim, 2018
Zip is a little, green alien, who entertains others by making items magically appear. When his brother, Bip, falls asleep watching his show, Zip accidentally zaps a monster into existence with thrilling results.
It is amazing how David Milgrim is able to create an entertaining story with limited text. There are simple sentences that feature sight words, rhymes, repetition, and eye-catching illustrations that provide pictorial clues.
The Letter Setters in Fun! by Ethan Long, 2026
This clever new series by bestselling storyteller Ethan Long is perfect for children just beginning their reading journey. Each spread pairs bright, expressive illustrations with a simple three-letter word. With each page turn, one letter changes to create a new word that builds the story.
In this humorous installment, four dogs team up to build the perfect sandcastle with delightfully funny results.
The Bug in the Jug Wants a Hug (Sounds Like Reading series) by Brian Cleary, 2009
Each book in this series concentrates on different vowel sounds. The two-page spreads follow the same format with a list of three words on the left-hand side with pictures underneath to help guide the reader. There is a big, bold illustration on the right-hand side of the page with one sentence underneath using the showcased words on the previous page. There is no real story here, but the use of rhymes, repetition, illustrations, and phonics makes this series a fun way for children to practice their reading skills.
Frog Meets Dog (Frog and Dog series) by Janee Trasler, 2020
Part of Scholastic’s Acorn line, which combines easy-to-read text with color illustrations and engaging storylines, Frog Meets Dog is an excellent choice for brand new readers. Very simple words many of which rhyme, follow a dog who tries to befriend a trio of frogs. The action-packed illustrations contain several instances of physical humor, which will most likely result in giggles from readers. Drawing instructions and a writing prompt are also included in the back for extra fun.Lexile 50
For more Easy Reader suggestions, check out the below lists.
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