From wildlife adventures to lessons on inclusion and perseverance, this month’s roundup of children’s books helps ease the transition from summer to school.

As the summer winds down and the new school year begins to creep closer and closer, children may begin to experience nerves about entering a new grade, a new classroom or a new school.

This month’s roundup of books for kids includes inspiring stories that can help ground us and motivate in this time of transition, from stories of protecting wildlife in “Hannah’s Call to Care” to books about perseverance, like “Just Keep Going.” Parents of young readers and young students can add these titles and more to their back to school shopping list.

Hannah’s Call To Care: How One Girl Discovered the Power of Protecting Wildlife

By Claudia Clark

“Hannah’s Call To Care: How One Girl Discovered the Power of Protecting Wildlife” by Claudia Clark features 12-year old Hannah as she dives into the world of wildlife rehabilitation and becomes an advocate for Australia’s native animals. Recommended for ages 10-14.

The ABCs of Inclusion

By Beth Leipholtz and illustrated by Vuon Illustration

Beth Leipholtz, viral parenting influencer and disabilities advocate, has released “The ABCs of Inclusion” to introduce young readers to the spectrum of disabilities present in people around us that deserve to be seen and celebrated. This newly illustrated version featuring Vuon Illustration is an engaging and educational read. Recommended for ages 4-8.

Lucas and Emily’s Food Bank Adventure

By Dave Grunenwald and illustrated by Bonnie Lemaire

“Lucas and Emily’s Food Bank Adventure“, written by Dave Grunenwald and illustrated by Bonnie Lemaire, is a heartwarming story about giving back. This new picture book is the sixth installment in the Lucas and Emily’s Adventure series, which follows grandparents and grandkids bonding over adventures. Recommended for ages 5-10.  

A World Without Summer: A Volcano Erupts, A Creature Awakens, and the Sun Goes Out

By Nicholas Day and illustrated by Yas Imamura

This historical nonfiction is a tale of climate chance, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, and above all else, hope. “A World Without Summer: A Volcano Erupts, A Creature Awakens, and the Sun Goes Out” by Nicholas Day and illustrated by Yas Imamura is perfect for young readers curious about history or climate change. Recommended for ages 10-14.

Just Keep Going

By Lynn Smith and illustrated by Lauren Gallegos

“Just Keep Going” by Lynn Smith and illustrated by Lauren Gallegos teaches young readers perseverance through the story of Mouse and how he learned that being brave is to keep on going. Recommended for ages 4-8.

For more book recommendations, check out our July Book Corner.