Bucket List Books to Jump Start Summer

Summer is filled with splashing at local swimming hangouts, riding bikes through the trails to grab that delicious ice cream cone, and even a vacation or two to explore the sights and sounds of your favorite family-friendly destination.  But summer can also be a time to create beautiful memories together by being taken away to another place and jumping into a good book with your kiddos.

To help you get started on your summer reading bucket list, here are 10 titles that your kids are sure to enjoy.

1.  Not Norman

He wanted a different kind of pet, not plain Normal the Goldfish in a fishbowl.  He wanted one that could run and catch, or chase string and climb trees, a soft furry pet to cuddle with him in his bed at night. Definitely not Norman. But when he tries to trade Norman for a different pet, better pet things do not get better, only worse… Could it be that Norman isn’t so bad after all? With humor and lighthearted affection, author Kelly Bennett and illustrator Noah Z. Jones tells an unexpected fishy tale about finding the good in something you didn’t know you wanted or needed.  A great life lesson for both adults and kids.

2. Caps for Sale

This tale of a peddler and a band of mischievous monkeys is filled with warmth, humor, and simplicity and also teaches children about problem-solving and resolution.  Kids will want to act out this book and hear it again and again. Esphyr Slobodkina knows exactly how to capture the hearts of children and adults alike with this timeless classic.

3. Tikki Tikki Tembo

Children still love hearing about the boy with the long name who fell down the well. Arlene Mosel and Blair Lent’s classic re-creation of an ancient Chinese folktale has captured the hearts of many and shows the danger of having such an honorable name as Tikki Tikki Tembo-no so rembo-chari bari ruchi-pip peri pembo.  This classic tale will keep your kids on the edge of their seats as they get caught up in this storyline about two brothers and one super long name.

4. Press Here

Herve Tullet’s magical journey awaits you with a simple “press” of the yellow dot.  Each page of this book takes twists and turns as it instructs the reader to press the dots, shake the pages, tilt the book, and who knows what will happen next.   Children and adults alike will stand amazed as the dots multiply, change direction, and grow in size. This amazing book embodies the power of imagination and will provide read-aloud fun for all ages!

5. Knuffle Bunny

Mo Willems really outdid himself with this hilarious read-aloud about one daughter’s afternoon errand with Daddy. Trixie, Daddy, and Knuffle Bunny take a trip to the neighborhood Laundromat and this fun Daddy/Daughter time takes a dramatic turn when Trixie realizes her beloved Knuffle Bunny is missing.

6.   The Giving Tree

This Shel Silverstein classic story may leave you in tears but in a meaningful way!  This story will pull at your heartstrings and teach your children all about sacrifice, giving a gift without expectation, and unconditional love.  It is a must-read!

7. How Rocket Learned to Read

Tad Hills wrote this amazing read aloud to capture the process of learning to read with lovable characters and a fun storyline.  Meet a fun-loving dog named Rocket and his teacher, a little yellow bird. Follow along as Rocket masters the alphabet, sounds out words, and finally . . . learns to read all on his own!  This book will encourage your child that anything is possible with a little practice and the right mindset.

8. Harry the Dirty Dog

Harry is a white dog with black spots who hates nothing more than to take a bath. After a day of thrilling adventures around town, Harry gets so dirty that he no longer looks like a white dog with black spots. Now he looks like a black dog with white spots!  His family cannot even recognize him and Harry must act fast. This tale is sure to keep your kids engaged and wanting more and more. Gene Zion has captured audiences with this dog for many decades.

9. Are You Ready to Play Outside? Elephant and Piggy Books

Your child will not be able to get enough of this Elephant and Piggy book written by none other than the fabulous Mo Willems.  Sprinkled with humor and engaging illustrations this book is sure to be a show stopper. Don’t forget, voices for Gerald and Piggy are a must as you read this story!

10. Three Billy Goats Gruff

Paul Galdone’s classic version of the three billy goats and one ugly mean troll is everything!  With catchy phrases and beautiful and detailed illustrations, this book is bound to be a favorite.  “Who’s that tripping over my bridge?”, you will have to read to find out!

After you get your hands on these books share with us which one was your favorite!  Happy reading!