Book Suggestions
Six summer recommendations for young learners, plus a graphic novel.
At Halifax Learning, we love to celebrate literacy all year round. Our camp is the perfect example, incorporating activities and adventure with academia! While there are benefits by the sand bucket for summer reading—like improving skills, developing interests, and fostering confidence—our practice pointers can also help maintain momentum!
Below are six recommendations (and a bonus!) for varying ages. So, let's make room for stories in backpacks, carry-ons, and beach bags, and be ready to read wherever the sunshine takes us!
BOARD BOOK
Maisy Goes Swimming by Lucy Cousins | Candlewick Press
Little hands can use the flaps and tabs to help beloved storybook mouse, Maisy, go from a wintertime wardrobe to poolside primed!
AGES 3-5
Misunderstood Shark by Ame Dyckman and Scott Magoon | Scholastic Canada
Sharks get a bad rap for being toothy, terrifying tyrants, but maybe they're just misunderstood! Follow along as one shark navigates the murky waters between accusations and acceptance.
AGES 5-7
And Then Comes Summer by Tom Brenner and Jaime Kim | Candlewick Press
Rife with vibrant imagery and nostalgic winks, embrace a sunny state of mind with this homage to all things summer (lemonade stands and lakeside campfires, anyone?)
AGES 8-10
The Secret Treasures of Oak Island by J.J. Pritchard | Formac Publishing
This Canadian classic was originally published nearly 20 years ago! One summer, siblings Joel and Emma travel from British Columbia to Nova Scotia to help their Uncle Jake uncover a magical, mysterious island's gold, gems, and secrets.
JUNIOR NOVEL
The Season of Styx Malone by Kekla Magoon | Penguin Random House/Wendy Lamb Books
Aimed at preteen readers, brothers Caleb and Bobby set out for adventure in their small town. But their new neighbour, Styx, offers excitement and enterprise, which could lead to either cool victories or catastrophic consequences.
YOUNG ADULT
In a Perfect World by Trish Doller | Simon & Schuster
Caroline's summer plans in Ohio take swift zigzags when her mom accepts a job in Cairo, Egypt. But her anxieties about culture shock also make a 180; she begins to understand, appreciate, and love a world once so far off her personal map.
GRAPHIC NOVEL
This One Summer by Mariko Tamaki and Jillian Tamaki | Macmillan Publishers
Rose is used to spending summers at the lake house with her parents, and hanging out with a local girl, Windy. But this year is different. Focusing on family, friendship, secrets, and danger, the book's illustrations help illuminate the highs and lows of finding your way.
When choosing books, remember that age doesn't always reflect current ability. If your preteen is reading at a lower level, find a less daunting option with an age-appropriate subject. If your Grade 2 is already craving the Harry Potter series, pick something to challenge and engage without anticipated barriers. Your local library and bookstores are wonderful ongoing resources for suggesting suitable stories—and see our past post for poetry-related recommendations!
Wondering about your child's reading level? Contact us to book a free, in-depth assessment.