Skip to content
LibraryMom
  • Home
  • About
    • About Me
    • Review Policy
  • Book Lists
    • Best Books
    • Food Allergy Books
    • Holiday Gift Guide 2020
    • Holidays
    • Kid Picks
    • School
    • Seasons
    • Summer Reading
    • More Themes
  • Books By Age
    • Books for 0 to 3 Year-Olds
    • Books for 3 to 6 Year-Olds
    • Books for 4 – 8 Year-Olds
    • Books for 8-10 Year-Olds
    • Grown-Up Reads
  • Formats
    • Board Books
    • Picture Books
    • Easy Readers
    • Chapter Books
    • Graphic Novels
    • Nonfiction
  • Recent Reviews
  • Bookstore
Main Menu

Summer Reading

Summer Reading for Grades K – 2

Summer Reading for Students Entering Kindergarten
Summer Reading for Children Entering 1st Grade
Summer Reading for Children Entering 2nd Grade
101 Picture Books to Read This Summer

 

Welcome! I’m Rosie and I’m excited to help you discover the best books for children.

Categories

Connect With Me

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest

Instagram

librarymombooks

librarymombooks
I want my daughter to grow up to be assertive, con I want my daughter to grow up to be assertive, confident, proud, and ambitious. While I do my best to try and model these attributes, sharing books with strong female protagonists demonstrating these important character traits is also helping to empower her to be her best self. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ That’s why I created a list of books that feature lively, self-reliant, self-assured characters who have stories that are not only engaging and entertaining, but inspiring! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Visit LIBRARYMOM.COM (link in bio) for my list of BOOKS FOR RAISING STRONG DAUGHTERS. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Spot any of your favorites on the list?
“If I can dream it, I can build it!” This is t “If I can dream it, I can build it!” This is the mantra of the exuberant Maxine who loves creating new inventions. MAXINE AND THE GREATEST GARDEN follows the science-minded Maxine as she teams up with her artsy friend, Leo, to build a garden. They face a few ups and downs, but ultimately realize that friendships are made stronger when everyone contributes something. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ With lively illustrations, elements of STEM, and a lesson in collaboration, this is sure to be a popular new spring-time read aloud! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ With spring only a couple of weeks away, our family can’t wait for the warmer weather and to start planning our own garden. Do you plant a garden each year? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Don’t miss MAXINE AND THE GREATEST GARDEN by Ruth Spiro @ruthspiro; illustrated by Holly Hatam @hollyhatam; published by Dial Books for Young Readers @penguinkids, 2021 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ A big thank you to the publisher for sharing this special book with our family in exchange for an honest review.
March is Women’s History Month and I’m kicking March is Women’s History Month and I’m kicking it off with books that have some serious girl power!!! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Groundbreakers, trailblazers, sheroes….whatever you want to call them, the women featured in these picture book biographies are nothing short of amazing. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ If you are looking to introduce your children or students to some truly remarkable women, visit LIBRARYMOM.COM (link in bio) for my list of WOMEN WHO HAVE CHANGED THE WORLD and PICTURE BOOKS ABOUT WOMEN IN STEM. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Spot any of your favorites here? Who am I missing that I need to add? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Double tap if you are ready for spring! While we s Double tap if you are ready for spring! While we still have snow on the ground here in New Jersey, our family is dreaming of warmer weather and living vicariously through some beautiful new books showcasing elements of one of our favorite seasons. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ While dandelions may be a common site in our backyards, did you know that they bloom on every single continent making them one of the most prolific plants on Earth? LITTLE DANDELION SEEDS THE WORLD uses lively alliteration to describe how the resilient dandelion seeds spread across the entire world carried by the wind, animals, and water. The upbeat text is a joy to read aloud while the colorful eye-catching pictures draw the reader in. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ This standout read aloud is perfect for science units discussing seeds and for providing children with a more global perspective. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Don’t miss LITTLE DANDELION SEEDS THE WORLD by Julia Richardson; illustrated by Kristen and Kevin Howdeshell @thebraveunion; published by Sleeping Bear Press @sleepingbearpress, ON SALE MARCH 15th, 2021 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ A big thank you to @sleepingbearpress for sharing this special book with our family in exchange for an honest review.
I was really moved by a recent post by @hellowonde I was really moved by a recent post by @hellowonderful_co addressing the hate crimes against Asian Americans that are occurring right now. While picture books may not be the answer to stopping these horrific acts, I believe that sharing stories that allow children to see a representation of themselves or a window into someone else’s life can help plant the seeds to build a kinder community of respect. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ For that reason, I’ve put together a list of a few of our favorite picture books featuring Asian Americans as the main characters (link in bio). ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I also encourage you to stop by @hellowonderful_co to see her powerful post from Monday then explore her other beautiful, imaginative posts featuring creative ideas for children. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
New books alert!!! My latest book mail from @simon New books alert!!! My latest book mail from @simonkids is filled with gems that are perfect for a variety of ages! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Littles ones are going to delight in pulling tabs, lifting flaps, and feeling various textures all while learning about traditional and unusual pets in PET. Even my eight-year-old loved playing with this one! They are also going to enjoy the vivid illustrations showcasing an assortment of hairstyles in CURLS. Teachers and parents are going to want to check out DUCKS ON THE ROAD, which weaves in subtraction skills into a charming story filled with rich illustrations that exude feelings of spring! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Older kids, on the other hand, are going to love learning about history in these three standout nonfiction books. JUMP AT THE SUN follows Zora Neale Hurston who changed American literature with her fascinating front-porch folk stories while TRY IT! introduces readers to Frieda Caplan whose willingness to try new things helped change the way many of us eat today! Her story even inspired my own kids to try some exotic foods! Last, but not least, TOGETHER WE MARCH describes 25 pivotal protest movements giving children a better understanding of why people march and the effect they can have. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ I can’t wait to share more details about these standout books. Which one do you want to hear about first? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
With its brave and bold character and vibrant unde With its brave and bold character and vibrant underwater scenes, OONA is sure to make a splash with kids! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Oona and her adorable pet otter are treasure hunters who love scouring the sea for lost objects. When all of her attempts to reach a shimmering crown at the bottom of a rift are thwarted, however, she is tempted to give up her favorite hobby. Just when it appears that all hope is lost, Oona gets the most ingenious idea to create goggles that allow her to see into the treacherous crevice and observe the perfect solution to her problem. Not only does she obtain the coveted crown, but also learns a lesson that persistence and one’s own ingenuity are treasure themselves. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Don’t miss OONA by Kelly Dipucchio @kellydipucchio; illustrated by Raissa Figueroa @rizzyfig; published by @harperkids, 2021 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ A big thank you to @harperkids for sharing this special book with our family in exchange for an honest review. #oona #readinfullcolor ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ For more #picturebookoftheday recommendations visit @multiculturalkidblogs!
BIG NEWS! We’ve adopted kittens! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ BIG NEWS! We’ve adopted kittens! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ My children have been begging for a pet for years and after they recently wrote us persuasive letters outlining why they should get a cat, my husband and I finally agreed. We are all now over the moon in love with our newest family members! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Inspired by our new rescue kitties and Love Your Pet Day, which is tomorrow, I thought this is the perfect time to introduce you to TAILS FROM THE ANIMAL SHELTER. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ This engaging nonfiction book uses gentle language to inform readers on why animal shelters exist and describes several different types of animals that can be found there. Each creature is presented with a short poem, additional information, and a lively illustration. The back matter also includes tips for adopting as well as supporting shelters. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Do you have a pet? I’d love to hear all about them! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Don’t miss TAILS FROM THE ANIMAL SHELTER by Stephanie Shaw @stephanieshaw830; illustrated by Liza Woodruff @liza.woodruff; published by Sleeping Bear Press @sleepingbearpress, 2020. A big thank you to the publisher for sharing this special book with our family in exchange for an honest review
My kids took one look at this cover and said, “W My kids took one look at this cover and said, “We want to read that!” THE TALE OF THE VALIANT NINJA FROG is packed with kid appeal and has become a new bedtime favorite for our family. As a dad and his two children sit by a campfire, he entertains them with the exciting story of a motley crew of heroes who set out to defeat an ogre named Grubber the Gruesome. With its action-packed illustrations, comical storyline, and message that size doesn’t matter when you have the heart of a hero, this one is pure fun! Don’t miss THE TALE OF THE VALIANT NINJA FROG by Alastair Chisholm @alastairchisholm; illustrated by Jez Tuya @jeztuya; published by Kane Miller @kanemillerbooks
It’s Random Acts of Kindness Day and I’m excit It’s Random Acts of Kindness Day and I’m excited to share a few of our favorite stories on this important subject. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ From solving arguments between siblings to encouraging compassionate deeds, kindness is a topic we revisit often in our house. Reading stories showcasing kindness has given my children several ideas on how to be kind in their everyday lives as well as inspire impactful conversations about respect, friendship, and how our actions affect others. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ While there are many books on this topic, I’ve compiled a list of what I consider to be the best of the best. If you are looking for a book to share in your classroom or at home, visit LIBRARYMOM.COM (link in bio) for my list of BEST BOOKS TO TEACH KINDNESS AND EMPATHY. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Spot any of your faves here? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
So much of life is about perspective and I love ho So much of life is about perspective and I love how this upbeat, colorful story teaches children to find beauty all around them. From the splendors of nature, to the bond found in friendship, and even in the astounding brilliance of math, beauty surrounds us. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Since this book encourages children to stop and appreciate the wonder in various moments, it’s a good choice for teaching mindfulness to children. The simple text also references finding beauty in broken things and even in sad moments, empowering children to find the good in a tough situation and create their own beauty. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Don’t miss FINDING BEAUTY by Talitha Shipman @talithashipmanillustration; published by Beaming Books @beamingbooksmn, 2021 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ A big thank you to the publisher for sharing this special story with our family in exchange for an honest review.
Happy Valentine’s Day! 💘💘💘Sending you a Happy Valentine’s Day! 💘💘💘Sending you a little love today via a few of our favorite books celebrating one of our strongest emotions. Spot any of your favorites in this collage of love? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
I’ve noticed that some people really embrace the I’ve noticed that some people really embrace the lovey-doveyness of Valentine’s Day while others can’t stand it at alll. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ My husband and I never celebrate it, but I love doing little things for my kids. We count down to the big day with love notes each morning then on Valentine’s Day we eat a special breakfast and read books about love. This year I have an extra special surprise for my kids that I can’t wait to share with all of you too! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ So what about you? Are you Team Valentine or a Crankenstein? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Featuring A CRANKENSTEIN VALENTINE by Samantha Berger @samanthabergerauthor; illustrated by Dan Santat @dsantat; published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers @littlebrownyoungreaders.
Attention teachers and parents! I have the perfect Attention teachers and parents! I have the perfect read aloud for you to inspire little ones to help make the world a better place through random acts of kindness. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ A SMALL KINDNESS follows a diverse group of children on their first day of school. The opening pages present the school in sepia tones with one girl standing out in full color. When she smiles at another boy, he brightens too. With each act of kindness passed on among the students and teachers, the pages fill with vivid hues demonstrating the remarkable power a compassionate gesture has on others. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ While there are many books on this subject, A SMALL KINDNESS stands out. The visualization of the immediate and prolonged effect of good deeds is especially impactful. The concise text provides several ideas for friendly acts that can easily be implemented every day and passed on like a game of tag. It also reinforces the idea that a classroom is a community enriched when we are kind to one another. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ With Random Acts of Kindness Day next Wednesday, you are going to want to get your hands on this one as soon as possible. Visit LIBRARYMOM.COM (link in bio) for more of our favorite books about kindness. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Don’t miss A SMALL KINDNESS by Stacy McAnulty @stacymcanulty; illustrated by Wendy Leach @wendy_leach_illustration; published by Running Press Kids, 2021 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ A big thank you to @runningpresskids for sharing this special book with us in exchange for an honest review.
Named a Caldecott Honor Book and a Coretta Scott K Named a Caldecott Honor Book and a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book, this heartwarming story celebrating the love between a mother and child is not to be missed! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ME & MAMA follows a young girl’s seemingly ordinary day that is made extraordinary by the simple presence of her mother. As she goes through her daily routine, she points out special items that she and her mother share. The child’s observations are full of imagination and the descriptive language is a pleasure to read aloud. The rich acrylic illustrations not only beautifully display cherished items, but skillfully capture the loving expressions of the characters. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Prepare for extra cuddles while reading this tender tale that is perfect for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, or for a cozy bedtime. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Don’t miss ME & MAMA by Cozbi A. Cabrera @cozbi; published by Denene Millner Book @denenemillnerbooks, 2020 ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ A big thank you to @simonkids for sharing this exceptional book with our family in exchange for an honest review.
Do you give gifts for Valentine’s Day? I like to Do you give gifts for Valentine’s Day? I like to write love notes to my kids the week leading up to the holiday and then on Valentine’s Day I share a story about love with them. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ If you are looking for a bookish keepsake for your little one, I’ve got you covered. Small fingers will delight in feeling the glittery covers and lifting the flaps in these adorable board books that are perfect for sharing on Valentine’s Day and all year long! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Visit LIBRARYMOM.COM (link in bio) for more of our favorite VALENTINE’S DAY BOOKS FOR BABIES AND TODDLERS. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ A big thank you to @simonkids for sharing these special books with our family in exchange for an honest review.
Load More... Follow on Instagram
Copyright LibraryMom. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author is strictly prohibited.