Although the school year has ended for many students, summer allows the time and freedom for young readers to explore topics that they are interested in. This month we have a roundup of books that will teach young readers about specific subjects and different perspectives they may not have previously considered.
Some of Us
By Rajani LaRocca and illustrated by Huy Vuon Lee
“Some of Us” explores all of the different pathways that push one to immigration in a picture book that celebrates how immigrants make up the United States.
Recommended for ages ages 5-9.
Jaxon’s Magic Eyes
By Jaxon Corey and illustrated by Heidi Rodis
Eleven-year-old author, and L.A. local, Jaxon Corey draws on his own experiences with color blindness to tell an inspiring story about acceptance in his picture book “Jaxon’s Magic Eyes“. Recommended for ages 3-8.
I Said No: A Kid-to-Kid Guide Keeping Private Parts Private
By Zack and Kimberly King and illustrated by Susan Szecsi
Already a child safety bestseller, the updated version of “I Said No: A Kid-to-Kid Guide Keeping Private Parts Private” focuses on helping kids distinguish between green and red flags in the real world. This picture book can help parents introduce the difficult topic of keeping private parts private to young readers. Recommended for ages 4-9.
Racing the Clouds
By Sydney Dunlap
Sydney Dunlap explores addiction in a tween-appropriate way in “Racing the Clouds.” This chapter book follows 13-year-old Sage as she goes to visit her grandparents and grapples with guilt, healing and relationships. Recommended for ages 10-15
Hop Around
By Shvona Chung and illustrated by Courtney Huddleston
Through a vibrant picture book, Shvona Chung’s picture book “Hop Around” teaches young readers the beauty of immersing themselves in different cultures. Recommended for ages 5-9.
A GIFT OF DUST: How Saharan Plumes Feed the Planet
By Martha Brockenbrough and illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
“A Gift of Dust: How Saharan Plumes Feed the Planet” is a beautifully illustrated picture book that teachers young readers about fossils, dust and the Sahara. Recommended for ages 5-9.
For more book recommendations, check out our May Book Corner.
