On the Shelf: May books for kids – All systems “go” for summer reading
Are you ready to fill in those summer reading logs? This month brings some delightful new picture books that celebrate our differences and for older readers, the conclusion to an epic middle grade fantasy series. Summer reading is just around the corner. It’s the most wonderful time of the year – these books will help your kids believe that too.
“Do You Believe in Miracles?”
by Jim Melvin (Green Bird Publishing, ages 10 and older, jim-melvin.com)
The conclusion of Melvin’s Dark Circles trilogy is now available. This middle grade fantasy series is perfect summer reading for tweens and teens, and it’s a great option to read aloud as a family as well. Kids will love the rich narrative here, but even more importantly, they will likely see themselves and their friends in these pages. These three books are a great entry point for reluctant readers too. Set aside hot summer afternoons to explore magical worlds. Adventures await!
“Tala Learns to Siva”
by Kealani Netane, illustrated by Dung Ho (Orchard Books, ages 4 – 8)
Debut author Kealani Netane knows the traditional Taualuga dance because it has been a part of her life as a Native Hawaiian-Samoan. But she had to learn it too. The gorgeous book will have little ones dancing around as they explore movement, culture, family and what it means to honor others.
“Penelope’s Balloons”
by Brooke Bourgeois (Union Square Kids, ages 4 – 8)
The author let us in on the story behind this tale. Her younger brother has autism. His routines and rules help him with what Bourgeois said is a complicated relationship with object permanence, and adopting some of his rules was a way his family could show their love for him. But little readers don’t need to know or understand that background to be able to see the importance of love and friendship told in this sweet story. This one makes for great bedtime reading.
“Neat Nick’s Big Mess”
by Chad Otis (Rocky Pond Books, ages 4 – 8)
Another beautifully sensitive story – This time, a very neat kid copes with his anxiety by fixing and cleaning and tidying, until everything is just right. But what happens when a big, slobbery, decidedly messy dog joins the family? Whether little readers see themselves here or not, this tale is a joy.
“The Soil in Jackie’s Garden”
by Peggy Thomas, illustrated by Neely Daggett (Feeding Minds Press, ages 5 – 8)
From the first opening of this book (it is in landscape style, not typical portrait orientation), children will dive deep into the soil, learning in a fun, giggle-worthy way all about what it takes to make the good soil needed for a flourishing garden. This is an instant classic for school and community garden programs and a wonderful way to engage kids in gardening at home too.