We’ve got just a few more weeks of summer left and hopefully, you and your family are making the most of it with long days spent poolside and warm nights outdoors watching the stars or fireflies. Some of my favorite stories are set in summer time, probably because summer is the perfect time for adventures. On days when it’s too hot to do much outdoors there are always good books to read or a relaxing trip to the library (hello A/C!) to enjoy. Here are some favorite books to celebrate the dog days of summer.
How Do You Wokka-Wokka?
by Elizabeth Bluemle
This story will have you tapping your toes to the beat! Join a group of friends as they walk through the city on a warm summer day singing and dancing to “wokka wokka” beat. The fun sounds and rhythms will carry you along to a dancing beat and may even inspire you to have your own dance party!
Hot City
by Barbara Joose
Mimi and her brother Joe are trying to have fun but it’s so hot the pavement is sizzlin’. They decide to get snow cones and go for a walk, which eventually leads them to the magical (and deliciously cool) public library. What stories will they find and what imaginary play will it inspire? Let this book inspire your family to venture out on a hot summer day to explore.
Mermaids on Parade
by Hope Greenberg
Every year on the summer solstice magical creatures like mermaids, neptunes and jellyfish pour into the streets for a parade to celebrate the opening of the Coney Island beach and the start of summer vacation. One little girl works very hard to make her costume just right so she can win a trophy. The magical costumes and music, paired with the book’s colorful illustrations make this a great way to celebrate the fun of summer. Encourage your little readers to make homemade costumes and enjoy their own family parade. Or let it inspire your little ones to try something new – like learning to float! – before summer comes to a close.
Blackout
by John Rocco
In this story, we follow one family as they experience a neighborhood blackout in the middle of the summer. At first, they are a little frightened and frustrated that their evening has been interrupted, but slowly people in the neighborhood come out of their houses and soon everyone is enjoying the summer evening in unexpected ways.
