School may be out, but great stories are always in session. This month’s featured books take readers on unforgettable journeys across the country, to the racetrack, onto the stage, and through the sunny days of summer. Packed with fun, heart, and plenty of learning along the way, these reads are perfect companions for the season.
Sing the 50 United States (Classic Seuss)
By Dr. Seuss
Just in time for America’s 250th birthday, a newly discovered and never-before-published Dr. Seuss manuscript makes learning geography a blast as the Cat in the Hat takes readers on a rhyming journey through all 50 states. Released in honor of America’s 250th birthday, this playful picture book is perfect for young explorers, road trips and classroom fun. Ages 3-8.
Start Your Engines
By Katy S. Duffield
Rev up for a rhyming adventure filled with mud, ramps and friendship. When Frankie the ATV races toward first place, he must decide whether winning is more important than helping a friend in need. With energetic illustrations and a gentle lesson about sportsmanship, this action-packed picture book is sure to delight vehicle-loving readers. Ages 3-8.
Don’t Splash Grandpa
By Julie Gonzalez
Everyone at the pool knows the rule: don’t splash Grandpa! But as a lively group of children tries to figure out why, they discover there may be more to Grandpa’s grumpy behavior than they first realized. Filled with humor, heart and a meaningful lesson about empathy, this rhyming picture book encourages young readers to look beyond first impressions. Ages 3-8.
Casting April
By Wendy Lu
Heartfelt, empowering, and full of Broadway dreams, this middle-grade novel follows a talented young performer with a tracheostomy tube as she fights for a chance in the spotlight while challenging assumptions about disability, friendship and what it means to truly belong. Ages 8-12.
The ABCs of Summer
By Jill Howarth
From alligators painting apple trees to bunnies bumping beach balls, Jill Howarth’s sunny alphabet adventure is packed with playful alliteration, seasonal surprises and cheerful illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, this bright board book makes learning letters feel like a summer day filled with fun. Ages 0-3.
This collection of books was curated by freelance writer Lori Orlinsky, an award-winning, bestselling children’s book author and industry expert who lives and breathes children’s books. She is the author of the Being Me series, including her 2025 book, Being Middle.
