With its long days and slower rhythms, summertime is a wonderful time to encourage kids to pick up books of their own choosing. Why? Because just about everyone we interviewed — including kids themselves — agree picking books yourself is the best way to spark a love of reading. We talked to librarians, booksellers, authors, illustrators and, most importantly, young readers and most advised making library or bookstore browsing a regular summer activity. Another source? Your childrens’ friends — kids often turn to their peers for advice or leads and avid kid readers and book critic wannabes often share their recommendations. Clearly series are all the rage. Check out:
“Must reads” from 11 real Seattle kid readers
Max, preschool: “Gotta Go, Buffalo” by Kevin Meyers (author) and Haily Meyers (author and illustrator) and “Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What Do You See?” by Bill Martin Jr. (author) and Eric Carle (illustrator)
Porter, kindergarten: “The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids” by Carole P. Roman
Malaika, first grade: “Owl Diaries” series by Rebecca Elliott and “Pig the Pug” series by Aaron Blabey
Nick, second grade: “Food Group” series by Jory John
Kyrie, third grade: “Framed!” series by James Ponti
Kira, third grade: “Wings of Fire” series by Tui T. Sutherland
Charlie, third grade: “Magic Tree House” series by Mary Pope Osborne, and “Babymouse” series by Jennifer L. Holm & Matthew Holm
Aaisic, fourth grade:
“Hamstersaurus Rex”series by Tom O’Donnell (author) and Tim Miller (illustrator) and “The Bad Guys” series by Aaron Blabey
Amerie, sixth grade:
“City Spies” series by James Ponti and “Amari” series by B.B. Alston
Kai,, eighth grade:
“Hatchet” by Gary Paulsen and “The 48 Laws of Power” by Robert Greene
Miles, eighth grade:
“Dungeon Crawler Carl” series by Matt Dinniman
