Preschool Summer Reading List

The summer before preschool is all about discovering a love for books--books that tell silly stories, teach kids how to express themselves in constructive ways, and inspire conversation.

Our team searched the shelves high and low for brand new titles that do just that. Here are our four picks for a solid gold summer of reading with your preschooler. We have a hunch that they'll become cherished additions to your bookshelf the whole year round.

Little Oink by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Jen Corace

Little Oink is a true embarrassment. Instead of making his room a proper pigsty, he insists on cleaning up after himself. All his parents want is for him to unmake his bed, throw his clothes on the floor, and cover his toys with mud at the end of the day, but he just can't seem to make a proper mess! This silly book throws a little reverse psychology into the "clean up your room" debate. A fun romp for summer. (Chronicle Books, 2009, $14.99) Where to buy

Mouse Was Mad by Linda Urban
Is there a best way to be mad? All of mouse's friends seem to think so. Rabbit hops. Bear stomps. Bobcat screams. Although they try to teach him, mouse can't seem to get it right. If only he could find his own way to be mad, he might feel a whole lot better. Preschoolers, are still learning the best way to express themselves appropriately, will get a kick out of coming along for this journey through anger etiquette. (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2009, $16.00) Where to buy

Little Chick by Amy Hest
Whether Little Chick is impatiently waiting for a carrot to grow, trying to fly a leaf kite, or reaching to catch a star, Old-Auntie is there to encourage her through life’s challenges. Beautifully rendered in pencil and watercolor by Anita Jeram, who previously teamed up with author Amy Hest on the New York Times best-selling Kiss Good Night, this book reflects a talent for capturing the attention of young readers through simple, humorous stories, with a focus this time on intergenerational bonding and the spark of childhood wonder. (Candlewick, $17.99) Where to buy

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed by Mo Willems
In a world where no one would ever be caught with clothes on, one mole rat dares to don duds. Three-time Caldecott Honoree Willems doesn't disappoint with this wonderful tale of what it means to be different, and the power of being yourself. A great springboard for talking to preschoolers about courage, friendship, and the beauty of originality. And lots of fun to read, too! (Hyperion, 2009, $16.99) Where to buy

Want to see our picks from last summer? Check out our 2008 Preschool Summer Reading List.