Preschool Summer Reading List

Summer reading is a great way to get your child interested in books, on his or her own terms. For the best books for preschool summer fun, we turned to the nation’s finest independent bookstores to get their favorites, from classics to new releases, swashbuckling adventures to the just plain fun, silly or sweet. Here are their recommendations for a summertime full of fantastic books:

Bein' with You This Way by W. Nikola-Lisa

This book celebrates the diversity of children and the ways that rhythm and can bring them all together. Recommended by Tattered Cover Book Store, Denver, CO. Where to buy.

Wave by Suzy Lee

A wordless book about a little girl at the seashore and her encounter with a wave, this spellbinding and simple book is sure to make a splash. Recommended by Powell’s Books, Portland, OR. Where to buy.

10 Little Rubber Ducks by Eric Carle

This is an engaging, interactive concept book that follows the course of rubber ducks released into the sea when their shipping container falls overboard. Recommended by Prairie Lights Books, Iowa City, IA. Where to buy.

The Prince Won't Go to Bed by Dayle Ann Dodds

This great spin on a common storyline is a great read-aloud for bedtime or anytime. The fun illustrations have a warmth and life all their own. Recommended by 57th Street Books, Chicago, IL. Where to buy.

Alfie (series) by Shirley Hughes

Classic story about a young preschooler, Alfie, and his baby sister. Recommended by Linden Tree Children’s Recordings and Books, Los Altos, CA. Where to buy.

Ladybug Girl by Jacky Davis

Everybody’s busy. What’s a girl to do? Enter Lulu’s alter-ego: Ladybug Girl. Complete with wings and a ladybug, polkadot skirt, Lulu and her faithful sidekick (the family Basset Hound who is never too busy) go off on their own adventures saving the yard from all danger. With wonderful illustrations accompanying the hilarious text, Ladybug girl is one of my favorite picture books for a very long time - a riotous read! Recommended by Kepler’s Bookstore, Menlo Park, CA. Where to buy.