BATHE THE CATAlice B. McGintyTwo dads enlist the kids’ help to get the house ready for Grandma’s visit. The sneaky cat will elicit plenty of giggles as he tries to avoid his bath.Birth–PreschoolView book detailsALSC Summer Reading 2023
Summer reading recommendations for children from birth through Grade 8.
2023 ALSC Summer Reading ListsSee the original list
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Published byAssociation for Library Service to Children (ALA)
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Birth–Preschool
26 selections
BATHE THE CATAlice B. McGintyTwo dads enlist the kids’ help to get the house ready for Grandma’s visit. The sneaky cat will elicit plenty of giggles as he tries to avoid his bath.Birth–PreschoolView book details
A BEAR, A BEE, AND A HONEY TREEDaniel Bernstrom, illustrated by Brandon James ScottIt’s bear versus bee in this rhyming picture book. Both want the honey in the beehive, and the bear is determined to figure out a way to grab it from the bees.Birth–PreschoolLexile 221LATOS 1.9View book details
BOOP THE SNOOTAshlyn AnsteePart tongue twister, part interactive story, this book invites readers to boop the snoots of happy dogs, cats, and even a tortoise and hare.Birth–PreschoolLexile AD200LATOS 1.8View book details
THE FARMER AND THE CIRCUSMarla FrazeeIn the third installment in this heartfelt series of wordless picture books, the farmer visits his circus-performer friends, who have become his family, and meets their families as well.Birth–PreschoolView book details
HELLO, FROG: TOUCH, FEEL, AND REVEALIsabel Otter, illustrated by Sophie LedesmaFollow Frog as he meets animals in the rain forest. Includes lift-the-flaps, textures, and die-cut holes.Birth–PreschoolView book details
HOT DOGDoug SalatiA hot pup escapes a sweltering day in the city and heads to the beach to cool down in this summery picture book.Birth–PreschoolLexile NPView book details
HOW TO PARTY LIKE A SNAILNaseem Hrab, illustrated by Kelly CollierSnail demonstrates that there are all kinds of ways to socialize. Some animals might enjoy big, noisy parties, while others prefer dancing quietly in their shells.Birth–PreschoolLexile AD590LATOS 2.5View book details
HOW WE EATShuli De La Fuente-LauThis board book is a delectable celebration of the many ways people eat, told through real photographs of diverse families and cuisines.Birth–PreschoolView book details
I DON’T CAREJulie FoglianoTwo young girls take turns declaring they don’t care what the other thinks, before asserting that, as best friends, what they really care about most is their friendship and feelings.Birth–PreschoolLexile 401LATOS 2.8View book details
I’M A UNICORNHelen YoonA young one-horned calf is convinced they are a unicorn! This charming story is sure to bring on lots of giggles.Birth–PreschoolView book details
I’M NOT SMALLNina CrewsA story about being a “big kid” who still feels small sometimes. The text and illustrations encourage young children to explore math concepts like comparison and relative size.Birth–PreschoolView book details
KIMCHI, KIMCHI EVERY DAYErica KimA little girl shares all the ways she eats her favorite food in this rhythmic picture book. Includes a glossary and fun kimchi facts.Birth–PreschoolView book details
LET’S GET THIS POTTY STARTEDRose Rossner, illustrated by Vicki GausdenA sweet and amusing board book that makes potty training fun. It gives toddlers a boost of confidence as they learn to use the potty.Birth–PreschoolView book details
LITTLE HOUSESKevin HenkesA girl visits her grandparents at the beach and learns about seashells and the creatures who live in them. www.ala.org/alsc The 2023 Summer Reading Book List was created by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). Titles on this list were selected by members of ALSC’s Quicklists Consulting Committee. For more booklists, please visit www.ala.org/alsc/booklists. © 2023 American Library Association t ALSC reading lists are created by children’s librarians as a resource to share with patrons. These titles may also be available in ebook, audio book, braille, and large print formats. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to explore this list to find resources that may match or spark their child's interest. Connect with your local library to find out what’s happening this summer.Birth–PreschoolView book details
LULI AND THE LANGUAGE OF TEAAndrea WangTired of playing alone while her parents attend ESL classes nearby, Luli makes a pot of tea to break the ice and befriend the other children in the playroom.Birth–PreschoolView book details
ONE SKYAaron BeckerView all the different colors of the sky with each page turn in this board book. Along with a simple poem describing the changes, readers can also look through small, frosty panes to see the world in different colors.Birth–PreschoolView book details
A SEED GROWSAntoinette PortisBeautiful illustrations about the life cycle of a sunflower show what happens below the earth while we are watering and waiting.Birth–PreschoolLexile 401LATOS 2.8View book details
SPACEBLOCKChristopher Franceschelli, illustrated by Peski StudioThis chunky lift-the-flap board book will delight tiny future astronauts. On a trip to the planetarium, readers learn all about the solar system, telescopes, and space exploration.Birth–PreschoolView book details
THIS BOOK IS MY BEST FRIENDRobin RobinsonWhen Sunny and Aarush reach for the same book at the library, friendship blossoms as they learn how to share.Birth–PreschoolLexile AD500LATOS 3.3View book details
TOO E ARLYNora EricsonA young child and father take in the cozy serenity of the early morning hours before mama and the baby wake and join them.Birth–PreschoolWord count 360View book details
TOO MANY PIGS AND ONE BIG BAD WOLF: A COUNTING STORYDavide CaliIn this clever counting story, the Big Bad Wolf wants to skip ahead to the part where he eats the pigs. But the reader wants a longer, more creative story and keeps adding more pigs.Birth–PreschoolView book details
WE PLAY SOCCER / JUGAMOS AL FÚTBOLRené Colato Laínez, illustrated by Nomar PerezJosé, who speaks Spanish, and Joe, who speaks English, both love playing soccer. This bilingual picture book with appealing illustrations is great for beginning readers of either language. DIGITAL ANIMAL ANTICS gse.harvard.edu/apps/early-literacy From the Harvard Graduate School of Education, this app allows children and caregivers to create their own stories by taking turns choosing characters and settings and recording dialogue. PLAY AND LEARN ENGINEERING https://pbskids.org/apps/play-and-learn- engineering.html This app teaches children about engineering concepts by building roller coasters and sandwich machines and even rescuing kittens! SCRIBBLES AND INK https://pbskids.org/scribblesandink Join the cat-and-mouse duo Scribbles and Ink in drawing, painting, and doing many other activities on this interactive website. SESAME STREET sesamestreet.org/apps Fans of Elmo and Big Bird can download the free official Sesame Street app to watch videos and play games. Birth—PreschoolBirth–PreschoolView book detailsOther resourceANIMAL ANTICSgse.harvard.edu/apps/early-literacyFrom the Harvard Graduate School of Education, this app allows children and caregivers to create their own stories by taking turns choosing characters and settings and recording dialogue.Birth–Preschool
Other resourcePLAY AND LEARN ENGINEERINGhttps://pbskids.org/apps/play-and-learn-engineering.htmlThis app teaches children about engineering concepts by building roller coasters and sandwich machines and even rescuing kittens!Birth–Preschool
Other resourceSCRIBBLES AND INKhttps://pbskids.org/scribblesandinkJoin the cat-and-mouse duo Scribbles and Ink in drawing, painting, and doing many other activities on this interactive website.Birth–Preschool
Other resourceSESAME STREETsesamestreet.org/appsFans of Elmo and Big Bird can download the free official Sesame Street app to watch videos and play games. Birth—PreschoolBirth–Preschool
Grades K–2
27 selections
BIG SHARK, LITTLE SHARK, AND THE SPOOKY CAVEAnna Membrino, illustrated by Tim BudgenIn this beginning-reader book, Big Shark is afraid to explore the dark and spooky cave, but Little Shark is excited for a new adventure!Grades K–2View book details
BURT THE BEETLE DOESN’T BITE!Ashley SpiresSome bugs seem to have superpowers, like strength and speed, but what can Burt the june beetle do? Includes insect super facts.Grades K–2Lexile GN530LATOS 3.5View book details
CREEPY CRAYON!Aaron ReynoldsA “purple, pointy, perfect” crayon seems to be the answer to all of Jasper’s frustrations and failures at school, until the crayon begins making its own demands.Grades K–2Lexile AD500LATOS 3.3View book details
DARK ON LIGHTDianne White, illustrated by Felicita SalaAs the sun sets, three young children pull on their boots and grab their flashlights, ready to explore the wonders of the world at night. Lyrical text and rich illustrations underscore the magic of discovery.Grades K–2Lexile AD220LATOS 1.9View book details
EMILE AND THE FIELDKevin Young, illustrated by Chioma EbinamaA young Black child feels companionship with a field, running through it in warm weather, and missing it when it is snow- covered in winter. Watercolor illustrations add to the dreaminess of the story.Grades K–2Lexile AD580LATOS 2.6View book details
GIGI AND OJIJIMelissa IwaiGigi, a biracial six-year-old girl, seeks ways to connect with her Japanese grandpa when he comes to live with her family.Grades K–2Lexile 500LATOS 3.3View book details
HANA’S HUNDREDS OF HIJABSRazeena Omar Gutta, illustrated by Manal MirzaA problem-solving story that touches on identity, creativity, and pride of one’s culture and traditions.Grades K–2View book details
HOLD THEM CLOSE: A LOVE LETTER TO BLACK CHILDRENJamilah Thompkins-BigelowThrough vivid collaged and gold-painted pages, this poetic picture book encourages Black children to hold onto the good moments.Grades K–2View book details
IDA B. WELLS, VOICE OF TRUTH: EDUCATOR, FEMINIST, AND ANTI-LYNCHING CIVIL RIGHTS LEADERMichelle Duster, illustrated by Laura FreemanA picture-book biography told by Wells’ great-granddaughter, adding a wonderful personal perspective.Grades K–2View book details
IT FELL FROM THE SKYTerry Fan, Eric FanWhimsical yet sophisticated, this picture book provides a look at structures of power and welcoming newcomers.Grades K–2Lexile AD670LATOS 4.3View book details
A LAND OF BOOKS: DREAMS OF YOUNG MEXIHCAH WORD PAINTERSDuncan TonatiuhExplore the rich history of Mexihcah bookmaking through a child’s perspective. Features Nahuatl-infused text, an author’s note, and glossary.Grades K–2View book details
LILY LEADS THE WAYMargi PreusLily, a small sailboat, helps the larger cargo ships navigate the harbor around them. An author’s note describes different kinds of boats and bridges.Grades K–2View book details
LITTLE WITCH HAZEL: A YEAR IN THE FORESTPhoebe WahlDelve into the forest for a year and explore creatures, habitats, and flora. The tiny witch tends to all to ensure comfort and health. Lyrical writing makes for a lovely journey.Grades K–2View book details
MY PET FEETJosh Funk, illustrated by Billy YongIn this silly picture book, a little girl discovers that her pet ferret is now her pet feet. Someone has taken all the Grades K—2 www.ala.org/alsc The 2023 Summer Reading Book List was created by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). Titles on this list were selected by members of ALSC’s Quicklists Consulting Committee. For more booklists, please visit www.ala.org/alsc/booklists. © 2023 American Library Association t ALSC reading lists are created by children’s librarians as a resource to share with patrons. These titles may also be available in ebook, audio book, braille, and large print formats. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to explore this list to find resources that may match or spark their child's interest. Connect with your local library to find out what’s happening this summer. r’s! Through clever wordplay, readers will follow along and hope that the missing letters are found.Grades K–2Lexile AD480LATOS 3.2View book details
NOTHING SPECIALDesiree CooperA picture-book tribute to Black American families who travel south each summer to stay connected to family and history. The memorable illustrations were created entirely with recycled textiles.Grades K–2View book details
REINA RAMOS WORKS IT OUTEmma Otheguy, illustrated by Andrés LandazábalIn this beginning reader, Reina has a dilemma to solve. When their teacher announces that the class will be creating a “wax museum” for open house day, she and her best friend choose the same person to portray. Also available in Spanish.Grades K–2Word count 484View book details
SIR LADYBUGCorey R. TaborSir Ladybug, along with his trusty friends, must rescue a caterpillar from a hungry chickadee in the first book in this sweet graphic novel series.Grades K–2Lexile 361LATOS 2.6View book details
A TASTE OF HONEY: KAMALA OUTSMARTS THE SEVEN THIEVESRebecca Sheir, illustrated by Chaaya PrabhatA retelling of a folktale from India and Pakistan in which a young woman learns to rely on herself to solve her problems. Includes a QR code to listen to a podcast of the story as well as other creative storytelling activities.Grades K–2View book details
TÍA FORTUNA’S NEW HOME: A JEWISH CUBAN JOURNEYRuth BeharEstrella learns about her Cuban and Jewish heritage as her Tía Fortuna packs up and moves from her pink casita to an assisted- living home.Grades K–2View book details
WAYS TO MAKE FRIENDSJairo Buitrago, illustrated by Mariana Ruiz JohnsonIn this tongue-in-cheek guide to friendship, a hapless toad tries out all kinds of methods, from the innocuous to the bizarre, in his quest to make a connection. Also available in Spanish.Grades K–2Lexile AD560LATOS 3.7View book details
THE WORLD BELONGED TO USJacqueline WoodsonA group of children in Brooklyn experience endless possibilities on their block when summer arrives, and they are free to play together until sundown.Grades K–2Lexile 970LATOS 6.4View book details
YELLOW DOG BLUESAlice Faye DuncanYoung Bo Willie’s beloved puppy has gone missing, and his search traces the path of landmark spots in the development of blues music. Features unique hand- stitched illustrations. DIGITAL CIRCLE ROUND wbur.org/podcasts/circleround This podcast retells folktales from around the world, exploring themes like friendship, generosity, and creativity, and always ends with an activity. SEEK BY INATURALIST inaturalist.org/pages/seek_app Get outside, explore, and identify plants and animals around you with the Seek app. Participate in challenges and earn badges. SKYSCI FOR KIDS scied.ucar.edu/kids Learn about climate- and weather-related science through games, articles, and videos on this interactive website created for children ages five to ten. STORY PIRATES https://www.storypirates.com/podcast Young people’s original stories are adapted into sketches by professional comedians and musicians, offering inspiration for podcast listeners to create their own stories. TINYBOP: THE HUMAN BODY https://tinybop.com/apps/the-human-body Learn how the human body works in this interactive, entertaining app made for children ages six to eight.Grades K–2View book detailsOther resourceCIRCLE ROUNDwbur.org/podcasts/circleroundThis podcast retells folktales from around the world, exploring themes like friendship, generosity, and creativity, and always ends with an activity.Grades K–2
Other resourceSEEK BY INATURALISTinaturalist.org/pages/seek_appGet outside, explore, and identify plants and animals around you with the Seek app. Participate in challenges and earn badges.Grades K–2
Other resourceSKYSCI FOR KIDSscied.ucar.edu/kidsLearn about climate- and weather-related science through games, articles, and videos on this interactive website created for children ages five to ten.Grades K–2
Other resourceSTORY PIRATEShttps://www.storypirates.com/podcastYoung people’s original stories are adapted into sketches by professional comedians and musicians, offering inspiration for podcast listeners to create their own stories.Grades K–2
Other resourceTINYBOP: THE HUMAN BODYhttps://tinybop.com/apps/the-human-bodyLearn how the human body works in this interactive, entertaining app made for children ages six to eight.Grades K–2
Grades 3–5
30 selections
CAT KID COMIC CLUB: COLLABORATIONSDav PilkeyThis fourth installment in the graphic novel series again utilizes madcap antics to deliver gentle wisdom as Flippy the fish’s exuberant children share their latest collection of mini-comics with a television reporter’s audience.Grades 3–5View book details
CHESTER KEENE CRACKS THE CODEKekla MagoonChester is convinced his dad is a spy. After receiving a clue from his dad, Chester and his classmate Skye embark on a puzzle-filled scavenger hunt that ends up having higher stakes than he originally thought.Grades 3–5Lexile 540LATOS 3.6View book details
CLASSIFIED: THE SECRET CAREER OF MARY GOLDA ROSS, CHEROKEE AEROSPACE ENGINEERTraci Sorrell, illustrated by Natasha DonovanMary Golda Ross, a Cherokee citizen, stayed true to her heritage throughout many accomplishments as an engineer. Four Cherokee values are explained, showing their spelling and pronunciation as well as a definition translated in English.Grades 3–5Lexile 940LFountas & Pinnell RView book details
COUNTING IN DOG YEARS AND OTHER SASSY MATH POEMSBetsy FrancoAmusing and silly poems that can be enjoyed as fun prompts for math conversations and practice.Grades 3–5View book details
ENDLESSLY EVER AFTER: PICK YOUR PATH TO COUNTLESS FAIRY TALE ENDINGS!Laurel SnyderChoose your own path through this adventuresome, dramatic, and sometimes grisly twist on classic fairy tales. Perfect for multiple, ever-changing read-alouds.Grades 3–5View book details
FINALLY SEENKelly YangLina Gao adjusts to life in America, traveling from Beijing to reunite with her family in California after five years apart, supporting her family’s bath- bomb business to raise their back rent, finding her place at a new school, and discovering the power of books and raising her voice.Grades 3–5Lexile 650LATOS 4.3View book details
THE FIRST CAT IN SPACE ATE PIZZAMac BarnettRats are eating the moon, and it’s up to a zany crew of a cat, a moon queen, and a toenail- clipping robot to save the world–and maybe eat some pizza.Grades 3–5View book details
THE HIDDENSEEKNate CernosekHolly and Hector thought they were playing an innocent game of hide-and-seek, but instead they are transported to a dark, cursed world frozen in time. Trapped in an endless game of hide- and-seek, there are dire consequences if they’re found.Grades 3–5Lexile 500LATOS 3.3View book details
HOOKYMíriam Bonastre TurWhen twins Dorian and Dani miss the bus to magic school, they are plunged into a world of tensions in the magical realm in this engaging, fast-paced graphic novel.Grades 3–5View book details
MARYA KHAN AND THE INCREDIBLE HENNA PARTYSaadia Faruqi, illustrated by Ani BushryWhen her classmate Alexa describes the fancy party she’s having for her birthday, Marya decides to make her own big impression with a fabulous henna party. But first she needs to convince her family to go along with this great idea.Grades 3–5View book details
MEGA-PREDATORS OF THE PASTMelissa Stewart, illustrated by Howard GrayThe spotlight in this nonfiction book is on the other huge prehistoric beasts that dinosaur- centric titles might overlook. Learn fascinating facts and theories about giant insects, birds, and more.Grades 3–5Word count 1805View book details
RILEY REYNOLDS CRUSHES COSTUME DAYJay AlbeeFourth-grader Riley and their friends are excited to create their own costumes for Dress like Your Favorite Character Day. When other kids struggle with their costumes, Riley’s creative problem- solving helps their friends succeed. This is the first book in the Riley Reynolds series.Grades 3–5View book details
A ROVER’S STORYJasmine WargaResilience, a Mars rover, has learned some of the intricacies of human emotion through scientists and a young girl, Sophie, who writes letters to Res. Readers can join Res on the journey to explore Mars in this science fiction graphic novel.Grades 3–5View book details
SWIM TEAMJohnnie ChristmasA graphic novel about what it means to be the new kid at www.ala.org/alsc The 2023 Summer Reading Book List was created by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). Titles on this list were selected by members of ALSC’s Quicklists Consulting Committee. For more booklists, please visit www.ala.org/alsc/booklists. © 2023 American Library Association Grades 3—5 school. Bree is thrust out of her comfort zone and learns how to swim, ultimately joining her new school’s swim team.Grades 3–5View book details
THREE STRIKE SUMMERSkyler SchremppFeisty Gloria Mae aspires to join an all-boys baseball team, while her pa is determined to protest the unfair conditions at the peach orchard where her family works in this novel set during the Dust Bowl.Grades 3–5Lexile 770LATOS 4.9View book details
TOO SMALL TOLA AND THE THREE FINE GIRLSAtinuke, illustrated by Onyinye IwuThree short chapters follow Tola through the streets of Lagos, Nigeria, as she learns how to get along with her siblings, tends to her grandmother’s health, and calms feelings of jealousy of a peer whose family has more money than hers.Grades 3–5Lexile 610LATOS 3.5View book details
TRAILBLAZERS: LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA: RAISING THEATER TO NEW HEIGHTSKurtis ScalettaThis book is about the life of Puerto Rican musical creator and lyricist Lin-Manuel Miranda and how he became one of the most popular and successful performers in recent years.Grades 3–5View book details
THE TRYOUTChristina SoontornvatWith the start of seventh grade, Christina, an Asian American girl in Texas, is hoping to become popular by making the cheerleading squad. However, she worries that she is too different from the other girls in her school.Grades 3–5Lexile GN360LATOS 3.2View book details
THE UNIVERSE IN YOU: A MICROSCOPIC JOURNEYJason ChinExplore the infinitesimal particles–cells, atoms, molecules, and those that we can’t even yet measure–that make up all the world’s physical matter in this well-researched and captivating informational picture book. Back matter provides notes and additional resources for extending learning.Grades 3–5View book details
VIOLET AND JOBIE IN THE WILDLynne Rae PerkinsTwo mice leave the comforts of human-adjacent life and try to survive in the forest. Spot illustrations and lots of white space make this chapter book inviting for younger readers.Grades 3–5Lexile 650LATOS 4.2View book details
VOICES OF JUSTICE: POEMS ABOUT PEOPLE WORKING FOR A BETTER WORLDGeorge Ella LyonA lyrical collection of portraits and poems that celebrate changemakers such as Nelson Mandela and Dolores Huerta and emerging heroes such as the Parkland shooting survivors. DIGITAL 4-H AT HOME https://4-h.org/about/4-h-at-home/ This website provides guides to learn and explore different topics including gardening, baking, and even aeroscience through activities that can be done at home. ART FOR KIDS HUB https://www.youtube.com/@artforkidshub Step-by-step YouTube videos for kids to learn to draw. EXPLORE LIVE CAMS https://explore.org/livecams Watch animals from around the world on dozens of live cams, including manatees, sloths, elephants, eagles, and more! GOOD NIGHT STORIES FOR REBEL GIRLS https://www.rebelgirls.com/audio Listen to inspiring stories about women from all over the world. While a lot of the stories on this app require a subscription, there are some free ones available in English and Spanish. KIDS ASK AUTHORS https://www.kidsaskauthors.com The weekly podcast is hosted by children’s book author Grace Lin. Children submit questions that authors answer to learn more about their writing process, inspiration, and craft. MAKING SPACE WITH CHRISTIAN ROBINSON https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzW_ SBxroAj5hclD4q5KwZw A YouTube series by award-winning children’s author-illustrator Christian Robinson in which he leads young people in exploring big feelings, creativity, and self-expression. MATHSTORY.COM https://mathstory.com/ Find many ways on this website to explore and enjoy math and science from math stories, poems, and videos to practice worksheets. SMASH BOOM BEST https://www.smashboom.org/ Aliens versus robots, flowers versus rainbows, ice cream versus french fries—which is best? Debaters on the podcast present the merits of two cool things, and a kid judge decides the winner. TYPING CLUB https://www.typingclub.com/ Learn to type accurately without looking at the keyboard. This free website includes fun lessons for all ages. t ALSC reading lists are created by children’s librarians as a resource to share with patrons. These titles may also be available in ebook, audio book, braille, and large print formats. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to explore this list to find resources that may match or spark their child's interest. Connect with your local library to find out what’s happening this summer.Grades 3–5View book detailsOther resource4-H AT HOMEhttps://4-h.org/about/4-h-at-home/This website provides guides to learn and explore different topics including gardening, baking, and even aeroscience through activities that can be done at home.Grades 3–5
Other resourceART FOR KIDS HUBhttps://www.youtube.com/@artforkidshubStep-by-step YouTube videos for kids to learn to draw.Grades 3–5
Other resourceEXPLORE LIVE CAMShttps://explore.org/livecamsWatch animals from around the world on dozens of live cams, including manatees, sloths, elephants, eagles, and more!Grades 3–5
Other resourceGOOD NIGHT STORIES FOR REBEL GIRLShttps://www.rebelgirls.com/audioListen to inspiring stories about women from all over the world. While a lot of the stories on this app require a subscription, there are some free ones available in English and Spanish.Grades 3–5
Other resourceKIDS ASK AUTHORShttps://www.kidsaskauthors.comThe weekly podcast is hosted by children’s book author Grace Lin. Children submit questions that authors answer to learn more about their writing process, inspiration, and craft.Grades 3–5
Other resourceMAKING SPACE WITH CHRISTIAN ROBINSONhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzW_SBxroAj5hclD4q5KwZwA YouTube series by award-winning children’s author-illustrator Christian Robinson in which he leads young people in exploring big feelings, creativity, and self-expression.Grades 3–5
Other resourceMATHSTORY.COMhttps://mathstory.com/Find many ways on this website to explore and enjoy math and science from math stories, poems, and videos to practice worksheets.Grades 3–5
Other resourceSMASH BOOM BESThttps://www.smashboom.org/Aliens versus robots, flowers versus rainbows, ice cream versus french fries—which is best? Debaters on the podcast present the merits of two cool things, and a kid judge decides the winner.Grades 3–5
Other resourceTYPING CLUBhttps://www.typingclub.com/Learn to type accurately without looking at the keyboard. This free website includes fun lessons for all ages. t ALSC reading lists are created by children’s librarians as a resource to share with patrons. These titles may also be available in ebook, audio book, braille, and large print formats. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to explore this list to find resources that may match or spark their child's interest. Connect with your local library to find out what’s happening this summer.Grades 3–5
Grades 6–8
27 selections
ALMA PRESSES PLAYTina CaneIn this verse novel, half-Chinese, half-Jewish Alma comes to terms with her parents’ divorce, her mother’s move to a new state, a challenging end-of-the-year project, and her feelings about boys.Grades 6–8View book details
BLACK BIRD, BLUE ROADSofiya PasternackThis historical fantasy novel includes deep philosophical questions about life and death, alongside adrenaline-filled action, as a Jewish girl attempts to save her dying brother by any means necessary.Grades 6–8View book details
THE CHRONICLES OF DELTOVIAOlivia JaimesMiddle-schoolers June, Misha, and Ollie decide to cowrite and illustrate their own book about a magical land called Deltovia. Their individual personalities and quirks come through in the different ways they approach the story and life.Grades 6–8Lexile 850LATOS 5.4View book details
THE DAVENPORTSKrystal MarquisIn this historical fiction novel set in 1910s Chicago, a group of Black teens takes us into an often-overlooked side of American history: the lives of wealthy African Americans and their experience of classism, familial expectations, and gender norms.Grades 6–8Lexile HL720LATOS 5.4View book details
DEMON IN THE WOODLeigh Bardugo, illustrated by Dani PendergastThe first graphic novel in the Grishaverse world offers a new format for fans and welcomes those new to the series. Readers will dive into the Darkling’s backstory.Grades 6–8View book details
THE DOOR OF NO RETURNKwame AlexanderKofi, an eleven-year-old boy from the village of Upper Kwanta, is ripped away from his family and community in this gripping novel in verse.Grades 6–8Lexile NP0LATOS 5.9View book details
FREESTYLEGale GalliganCory navigates changing friendships and social pressures while learning cool yo-yo tricks in this graphic novel.Grades 6–8Lexile GN320LATOS 2.7View book details
FRIZZYClaribel A. OrtegaDominican tween Marlene learns to care for and appreciate her curly hair in this vibrant graphic novel about colorism, beauty standards, and self-acceptance.Grades 6–8Lexile 440LATOS 3View book details
GROWING PANGSKathryn Ormsbee, illustrated by Molly BrooksA graphic novel about the first time at sleepaway camp, feeling different as a homeschooled student, and traversing the ever-present effects of OCD.Grades 6–8Lexile GN380LATOS 3View book details
I LIKE ME BETTERRobby WeberAnother heartwarming summer rom-com from Weber. When your summer plans fall apart, love can show up in unexpected places. Zack takes the fall for his soccer team and ends up having to do community service for the summer.Grades 6–8View book details
INVISIBLEChristina Diaz GonzalezIn this graphic novel, five middle-school students find out that they have been lumped together because their teachers assumed, since they all speak Spanish, that they’d have tons in common. This couldn’t be farther from the truth!Grades 6–8Lexile GN260LATOS 2.6View book details
KARTHIK DELIVERSSheela ChariRising ninth-grader Karthik spends the summer of 2009 working as the delivery boy for his family’s failing grocery store. Unbeknownst to his family, he’s also acting in a play about Leonard Bernstein.Grades 6–8Lexile 600LATOS 3.9View book details
THE KATE IN BETWEENClaire SwinarskiKate is being celebrated after rescuing a classmate from drowning, but what happens when everyone finds out what really happened that day at the lake?Grades 6–8Lexile 701LATOS 4.5View book details
THE LAST MAPMAKERChristina SoontornvatSai, an assistant to Mangkon’s best mapmaker, is working hard to make her life better. A mapmaking trip to explore the Sunderlands, a place with dragons and other treasures, might be the way to achieve that.Grades 6–8View book details
LOLO’S LIGHTLiz Garton ScanlonThe morning after twelve-year-old Millie babysits for her neighbors, she learns that the infant she watched passed away Grades 6—8 www.ala.org/alsc The 2023 Summer Reading Book List was created by the Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association (ALA). Titles on this list were selected by members of ALSC’s Quicklists Consulting Committee. For more booklists, please visit www.ala.org/alsc/booklists. © 2023 American Library Association overnight. This coming-of-age novel explores the complex, intertwining processes of loss, guilt, grief, and acceptance with honesty and empathy.Grades 6–8View book details
RABBIT CHASEElizabeth Lapensée, illustrated by K. C. OsterAimée, a nonbinary Anishinaabe middle- schooler, is on a field trip when they are transported to an alternate dimension, in an Indigenous spin on Alice in Wonderland, leading them to explore their identity and culture.Grades 6–8View book details
RAIN RISINGCourtne ComrieIn this novel in verse, middle-schooler Rain is secretly dealing with depression and low self- esteem. After her brother is brutally beaten in a hate crime attack, Rain confronts her trauma and begins a challenging yet rewarding journey to healing.Grades 6–8Lexile 549LATOS 3.6View book details
RIDE ONFaith Erin HicksIn this graphic novel, Victoria loves to ride horses but is tired of riding competitions. When this leads to a disagreement with her best friend, she decides to start riding at Edgewood Stables. However, this also means meeting new people and maybe making new horse-riding friends.Grades 6–8View book details
SOLITOJavier ZamoraJavier is only nine years old when he makes the journey from El Salvador to the United States to reunite with his parents. During his trip, Javier faces the dangers that, similarly, thousands of children face today as they journey north to make it to the U.S. border.Grades 6–8View book details
SUMMER AND JULYPaul MosierJuillet accompanies her mother on a month- long work trip to a California beach town. There she meets surfer girl Summer, who helps Juillet come out of her shell. Each navigates their own family pain: Juillet’s parents are recently divorced; Summer’s brother is in a coma.Grades 6–8View book details
THE TROUBLED GIRLS OF DRAGOMIR ACADEMYAnne UrsuConstantly overshadowed by her older brother, who is rumored to hold the potential to become a heroic sorcerer, Marya is invited to a mysterious all-girls school where she begins to discover the truth about power and control.Grades 6–8Lexile 829LATOS 5.3View book details
TWIN CITIESJose PimientaTwins Fernando and Teresa have always gone to school and hung out together in their hometown of Mexicali. But when Teresa decides to attend seventh grade across the border in Calexico, their sibling bond is put to the test.Grades 6–8View book details
WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER: A YOUNG READERS EDITION OF WE ARE NOT HERE TO BE BYSTANDERSLinda SarsourSarsour, a Muslim Palestinian American woman, details her childhood and journey toward civic activism in this inspiring and informative adaptation of the memoir of one of the co-organizers of the historic Women’s March on Washington that took place on January 21, 2017. DIGITAL BOOK CLUB FOR KIDS https://www.bookclubforkids.org/ Hosted by Kitty Felde, the Book Club for Kids podcast explores middle-grade books with real young people discussing each book, along with an interview with the author. GRIMM, GRIMMER, GRIMMEST https://pinna.fm/library/kids-shows/pinna- podcasts/grimm-grimmer-grimmest Award-winning author of A Tale Dark and Grimm, Adam Gidwitz retells classic fairy tales to curious kids who respond to the weird and macabre stories with humor and surprise. Podcast listeners are also told where each tale lands on the Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest scale. This subscription service charges monthly. A free trial is available with account setup. NEAL.FUN https://neal.fun/ Creative coder Neal Agarwal shares quirky, engaging digital experiences on this interactive website. SMITHSONIAN FUN STUFF FOR KIDS AND TEENS https://www.si.edu/kids Take a virtual trip to one of the best museums in the world with lots of activities to try from home on this interactive website. t ALSC reading lists are created by children’s librarians as a resource to share with patrons. These titles may also be available in ebook, audio book, braille, and large print formats. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to explore this list to find resources that may match or spark their child's interest. Connect with your local library to find out what’s happening this summer. Grades 6—8Grades 6–8View book detailsOther resourceBOOK CLUB FOR KIDShttps://www.bookclubforkids.org/Hosted by Kitty Felde, the Book Club for Kids podcast explores middle-grade books with real young people discussing each book, along with an interview with the author.Grades 6–8
Other resourceGRIMM, GRIMMER, GRIMMESThttps://pinna.fm/library/kids-shows/pinna-podcasts/grimm-grimmer-grimmestAward-winning author of A Tale Dark and Grimm, Adam Gidwitz retells classic fairy tales to curious kids who respond to the weird and macabre stories with humor and surprise. Podcast listeners are also told where each tale lands on the Grimm, Grimmer, Grimmest scale. This subscription service charges monthly. A free trial is available with account setup.Grades 6–8
Other resourceNEAL.FUNhttps://neal.fun/Creative coder Neal Agarwal shares quirky, engaging digital experiences on this interactive website.Grades 6–8
Other resourceSMITHSONIAN FUN STUFF FOR KIDS AND TEENShttps://www.si.edu/kidsTake a virtual trip to one of the best museums in the world with lots of activities to try from home on this interactive website. t ALSC reading lists are created by children’s librarians as a resource to share with patrons. These titles may also be available in ebook, audio book, braille, and large print formats. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to explore this list to find resources that may match or spark their child's interest. Connect with your local library to find out what’s happening this summer. Grades 6—8Grades 6–8