As summer rolls in, it’s the perfect time to dive into some exciting new books with your young readers. Whether you’re looking for a fun summer book club activity, a mini unit study, or just some enjoyable independent reading, these 5 summer picks will keep kids entertained and inspired all season long.
To make reading even more fun, check with your local library to see if they’re hosting a summer reading program or challenge. It’s a great way to stay motivated while enjoying these books, plus it often comes with exciting rewards and events!
Each story here is packed with adventure, friendship, and discovery, and I’ve included a few optional activities to enhance the experience with a hands-on, multisensory twist. These books will not only keep kids engaged, but also encourage them to explore, create, and have fun this summer.
Here are my 5 summer reading picks for kids in grades 1-3:
1. Cam Jansen and the Summer Camp Mysteries
Author: David A. Adler
Age/Grade Level: 7-9 years (2nd-3rd grade)
Genre: Mystery, Adventure
Summary:
In Cam Jansen and the Summer Camp Mysteries, young detective Cam Jansen uses her photographic memory to solve a series of mysteries at summer camp. From missing items to mysterious happenings, Cam and her friend Eric work together to crack the case. The book is packed with fun puzzles and clues that keep young readers engaged while learning problem-solving skills.
Why It’s Great for Summer:
This book in the beginner chapter series is perfect for summer as it combines the excitement of camp with a good mystery. It’s a great choice for young readers who enjoy solving puzzles and following clues. With a lighthearted, fun tone, Cam Jansen and the Summer Camp Mysteries is ideal for both independent reading and summer book clubs.
Optional Hands-On Activities:
- Create a Mystery: Have kids come up with their own mystery to solve, setting up clues and puzzles around the house or yard.
- Detective Notebook: Encourage kids to keep a “detective notebook” like Cam’s, where they write down observations and clues as they read.
- Scavenger Hunt: Organize a scavenger hunt where kids can search for hidden clues, mimicking Cam’s mystery-solving skills.
Related Books:
Cam Jansen and the Summer Camp Mysteries is part of the Cam Jansen series. There are 45 books in the series including:
- Cam Jansen and the Graduation Day Mystery
- Cam Jansen: the Mystery of the Carnival Prize
- Cam Jansen: the First Day of School Mystery
Final Thoughts:
Cam Jansen and the Summer Camp Mysteries is a fun and engaging read that introduces kids to the world of mystery-solving while keeping them entertained during the summer. It’s perfect for readers who love adventure, puzzles, and a bit of camp fun.
2. Frog and Toad Together
Author: Arnold Lobel
Age/Grade Level: 6-7 years (1st-2nd grade)
Genre: Early Reader, Friendship
Summary:
In Frog and Toad Together, Frog and Toad share a series of heartwarming and funny adventures that showcase their deep friendship. From planting a garden to helping each other through everyday challenges, their simple yet meaningful stories teach children about loyalty, kindness, and the joys of friendship. With its easy-to-follow text and engaging illustrations, this is a perfect read for young readers.
Why It’s Great for Summer:
This book is ideal for summer as it captures the essence of outdoor adventures and the beauty of nature. The stories about Frog and Toad’s gardening, swimming, and enjoying simple pleasures feel like the perfect way to celebrate the warm months. It’s a light, feel-good read for the summer that teaches valuable lessons about friendship and working together.
Optional Hands-On Activities:
- Create a Nature Garden: Just like Frog and Toad, try planting a simple garden or growing plants in small pots.
- Summer Picnic: Host a picnic, just like Frog and Toad do in their stories, and enjoy some fun, easy snacks while reading outside.
- Friendship Journal: Have kids write or draw about their best friends and the fun adventures they’d like to have together, inspired by Frog and Toad.
Related Books:
If you love Frog and Toad Together, be sure to check out the other volumes in the Frog and Toad series:
- Frog and Toad Are Friends
- Frog and Toad All Year
Final Thoughts:
A perfect read for young readers who are beginning to explore chapter books, Frog and Toad Together is filled with warmth, humor, and timeless lessons about friendship. Its summer-friendly themes make it an excellent choice for summer reading.
3. Henry and Mudge in the Green Time
Author: Cynthia Rylant
Age/Grade Level: 6-7 years (1st-2nd grade)
Genre: Early Reader, Adventure, Family
Summary:
In Henry and Mudge in the Green Time, Henry and his lovable dog Mudge embark on a summer adventure, enjoying the beauty of nature and the great outdoors. Together, they explore the green grass and fields, making the most of a peaceful day in the countryside. This heartwarming story celebrates the simple joys of summer, friendship, and family.
Why It’s Great for Summer:
This book is a wonderful choice for summer reading because it captures the essence of warm weather, outdoor fun, and exploring nature. The simple, relatable story is perfect for young readers who are ready to enjoy a classic summer tale about the special bond between a boy and his dog.
Optional Hands-On Activities:
- Nature Exploration: Take a walk outside and observe the different plants, insects, and animals, just like Henry and Mudge do. Make a list of what you find in a nature journal.
- Dog Day Fun: Celebrate your own pets by having a “dog day” where kids can make dog-friendly treats or create a fun obstacle course.
- Picnic in the Park: Pack a picnic, head to the park, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon outdoors, just like Henry and Mudge.
Related Books:
Henry and Mudge in the Green Time is part of the beloved Henry and Mudge series:
- Henry and Mudge and the Tall Tree House
- Henry and Mudge and the Starry Night
- Henry and Mudge in the Family Trees
Final Thoughts:
Henry and Mudge in the Green Time is a perfect, simple read for young children who are ready to enjoy chapter books. With its warm, outdoor setting and themes of friendship and family, it’s an ideal choice for summer reading.
4. Little Bear’s Friend
Author: Else Holmelund Minarik
Age/Grade Level: 6-8 years (1st-3rd grade)
Genre: Early Reader, Friendship
Summary:
In Little Bear’s Friend, readers are taken through a series of four short stories, sort of like chapters. Little Bear makes new friends, like playful, adventurous creatures named Cat and Duck. Together, they share fun outdoor adventures, from playing in the garden to having a picnic in the sun. This charming collection of stories shows the value of friendship, sharing, and exploring the world together. With its gentle pace and simple language, it’s perfect for young readers transitioning into chapter books.
Why It’s Great for Summer:
This book is ideal for summer because it captures the joy of spending time outside, playing with friends, and enjoying nature. The stories about Little Bear’s adventures are light-hearted and perfect for those lazy summer days when kids want something easy and heartwarming to read.
Optional Hands-On Activities:
- Outdoor Adventure: Like Little Bear and Cat, go outside and explore the natural world. Have kids observe and draw things they find in nature, such as flowers, animals, or trees.
- Picnic Fun: Pack a picnic with your kids and enjoy a meal outdoors while reading one of the stories from the book.
- Friendship Journal: Encourage kids to write or draw about their best friends and the activities they enjoy doing together.
Related Books:
If you love Little Bear’s Friend, try Little Bear Goes to the Moon for an adventure that takes Little Bear into the world of imagination and Little Bear’s Visit for more outdoor fun and learning about the world with friends.
Final Thoughts:
Little Bear’s Friend is a lovely, warm read that’s perfect for younger readers looking for a story about friendship and outdoor adventures. With its gentle tone and endearing characters, it’s an excellent choice for summer reading.
5. Owl Diaries: Eva’s Campfire Adventure
Author: Rebecca Elliott
Age/Grade Level: 6-8 years (1st-3rd grade)
Genre: Adventure, Friendship
Summary:
In Owl Diaries: Eva’s Campfire Adventure, Eva the owl and her friends head off on a camping trip full of fun and adventure. As they explore the outdoors, Eva learns about teamwork, problem-solving, and friendship. The book is filled with cute illustrations, simple text, and an exciting campfire story that will keep young readers engaged and entertained.
Why It’s Great for Summer:
This book is a perfect summer read as it takes place during a camping trip, which ties into the outdoor adventure theme that’s so popular during the summer months. The engaging, simple storyline and the fun camp activities make it ideal for young readers looking to dive into a seasonal adventure.
Optional Hands-On Activities:
- Camping Adventure: Set up a mini camping experience at home or in the backyard, complete with a pretend campfire and some storytime.
- Owl Craft: Have kids create their own owl mask using a paper plate, feathers, and other craft materials to bring Eva to life.
- Nature Scavenger Hunt: Go on a nature walk or scavenger hunt and encourage kids to find items from the book, like leaves, sticks, or animals.
Related Books:
This book is #12 of 20 available in the Owl Diaries series. If your kiddo enjoys this one check out some of the other warm weather reads:
Final Thoughts:
Owl Diaries: Eva’s Campfire Adventure is a delightful and accessible book for young readers who love nature, camping, and friendship. The simple language, cute illustrations, and seasonal setting make it a perfect choice for summer reading.
6. Junie B. Jones: Aloha-ha-ha
Author: Barbara Park
Age/Grade Level: 6-8 years (1st-3rd grade)
Genre: Humor, Realistic Fiction
Summary:
In Junie B. Jones #26: Aloha-ha-ha!, Junie B. heads to Hawaii for a class field trip, where everything goes hilariously wrong. From funny misunderstandings to Junie B.’s classic antics, this book is filled with her trademark humor and sass. As always, Junie B. finds herself in awkward situations, but she handles them in her own unique and funny way. It’s an entertaining and relatable story for young readers who enjoy humor and a bit of mischief.
Why It’s Great for Summer:
This book is perfect for summer because it takes readers on a tropical adventure, with Junie B. experiencing all the fun and chaos that come with a class trip to Hawaii. It’s a lighthearted and funny read that’s perfect for a summer break, especially for kids who enjoy Junie B.’s quirky, humorous perspective on everyday life.
Optional Hands-On Activities:
- Hawaiian Craft: Have kids create their own tropical crafts like paper flowers or leis to bring the setting of the book to life.
- Junie B. Jones Diary: Encourage kids to write a funny “Junie B. style” diary entry about their own adventures or summer vacation experiences.
- Hawaiian Fun: Explore Hawaiian culture by learning about the islands, trying a simple Hawaiian recipe, or listening to Hawaiian music.
Related Books:
This book is #26 of 28 available in the Junie B. Jones series. If you’re looking to follow more of Junie B.’s adventures, check out other books in the series:
Final Thoughts:
Junie B. Jones #26: Aloha-ha-ha! is a hilarious, fun-filled adventure that captures Junie B.’s energetic and mischievous spirit. Perfect for young readers who love humor and adventure, this book is a great way to keep kids entertained and laughing through the summer.
Summer is the perfect time to dive into new books and keep those reading skills sharp while having fun!
Whether it’s solving mysteries with Cam Jansen, enjoying the outdoor adventures of Frog and Toad, or exploring nature with Little Bear and Eva, these books are sure to spark a love for reading. Remember, the summer months are a great opportunity to read together, share stories, and engage with literature in fun and creative ways.
So, keep reading, keep exploring, and make this summer full of great books and adventures.