Summer time is the perfect season to enjoy a good book. Our July roundup includes empowering and motivating stories and fun science fiction mysteries that are sure to keep you entertained during this summer break.
That’s Not My Name!
By Anoosha Syed
When Mirah starts a new school she is so excited to make new friends. When one of her classmates mispronounces her name, she wonders if she should change it. Mirah and mama work together with the use of images and illustrations in, “That’s Not My Name!” to find love for your name, find your voice and learn how to stand up for yourself. Recommended for ages 3-5.
Always with You, Always with Me
By Kelly Rowland and Jessica McKay
Being a kid can be a hard job. Sometimes you can feel like you are alone, especially when your parents have to leave for work during the day. Grammy Award-winning artist Kelly Rowland and educator Jessica McKay have created a lyrical celebration of working moms everywhere and an encouraging story for their children. As a mother gets ready to go to work, she finds simple words that she and her child can use whenever they miss each other or are having a hard time: always with you, always with me, mommy and child, together we’ll be. Any child who needs a little reassurance or just to share a sweet gesture of affection, “Always with You, Always with Me” is a fun-loving book with encouraging words. Recommended for ages 3-7.
The Awkward Avocado
By CJ Zachary
“The Awkward Avocado” is a book about acceptance and self-love. If you have ever felt out of place or unsure of things, you’re not alone. Come along with the lovable character Awkward Avocado and see that it’s okay to be different. You don’t have to fit into a specific mold or conform to the norms. As long as you stay true to yourself, you can’t go wrong. This fun, encouraging read is for ages 3-8.
Hillary and the Ladybug Butterflies
By William Dandurand, Elisabeth Revel and Mary Cohen, Gary Revel
In the latest story in the Adventures of Hillary and the Little Ladybug series, strange things happen that alter everything for the ladybugs. A comet explodes, and the green glow causes mutations among them. In the new book, Hillary and Tiny Tim go on a forbidden journey to find the answer to the mystery. The event leads them to a challenge that will inspire and encourage everyone who reads the book. The series features original illustrations, photography and playfully educational storylines. “Hillary and the Ladybug Butterflies” is recommended for ages 7-14.
First Day Critter Jitters
By Jory John
On the first day of school jitters can feel scary and worrisome. “First Day Critter Jitters” is a funny and reassuring picture book for anyone about to embark on their first day of school. The first day is coming quickly and all the animals are super nervous. The sloth does not want to be late, the bunny is scared she will hop around and the teacher is too scared to teach. We watch the animals overcome and help one another through their jitters. Recommended for ages 4-8.
What Does A Real Doctor Look Like?
By Dr. Cherice Roth
Dr. Cherice Roth’s newest children’s book, “What Does A Real Doctor Look Like?,” unpacks the harmful stereotypes that only children from certain backgrounds can enter STEM fields. A real-life example of a person of color-breaking barriers in her field is highlighting the power of representation in helping young children in Los Angeles and around the country to dream big. “What Does A Real Doctor Look Like” is part of Dr. Roth’s “Real Doctors” series for children. Recommended for ages 7 and up.
For more book suggestions, check out our June Book Corner for adults or our June Book Corner.
