Summer reading with little ones can feel like a challenge. Keeping preschoolers engaged when the sun’s calling and outdoor activities seem more appealing requires the right approach.
This blog promises to solve that problem. You’ll find a carefully selected collection of summer books for preschoolers that will keep your preschooler turning pages instead of turning away. These books combine seasonal themes with age-appropriate content that matches their developmental needs.
You’ll learn why certain books work better during summer months, how to choose books that match your child’s interests, and practical tips for creating successful reading routines.
Why Reading Summer Books is Important for Preschoolers
Reading summer books for preschoolers is essential because it helps prevent the “summer slide”, the loss of reading skills that can occur during long school breaks.
Regular reading during summer keeps young minds active, supports the development of vocabulary and comprehension, and lays a strong foundation for future academic success. Engaging with books also sparks imagination, nurtures creativity, and encourages curiosity, making learning enjoyable even outside the classroom.
Additionally, summer reading fosters a lifelong love of books and helps children develop empathy by exposing them to diverse stories and perspectives. By making reading a fun summer activity, parents can ensure their preschoolers are prepared and excited for the next school year
Summer Books for Preschoolers that They Will Love
Summer is the perfect time for preschoolers to jump into joyful stories that celebrate sunshine and friendship. These delightful books are filled with colorful illustrations and playful tales, making them ideal for young children eager to find the magic of summer.
The following are eleven summer books for preschoolers.
1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s First Summer by Eric Carle
| Published Date | 2024 |
| Publisher | World of Eric Carle |
| Page Count | 16 |
| Genre | Picture Book |
| Rating | 4.8 |
This charming board book follows the beloved caterpillar as he explores the joys of summer. Children experience the warmth of the sun, buzzing insects, and the scents of summer cookouts through Carle’s signature collage art.
It’s a sensory celebration of the season, perfect for little hands and minds eager to discover the wonders of summertime.
Click here to buy the book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s First Summer by Eric Carle
2. I See Summer by Charles Ghigna
| Published Date | 2010 |
| Publisher | Picture Window Books |
| Page Count | 24 |
| Genre | Picture Book |
| Rating | 4.7 |
This sweet stroll through the summer season captures lemonade stands, picnics, and the simple joys of summer. With gentle rhymes and bright illustrations, it’s a wonderful read-aloud that helps children notice and appreciate the beauty and magic of summer days.
Click here to buy the book: I See Summer by Charles Ghigna
3. And Then Comes Summer by Tom Brenner
| Published Date | 2017 |
| Publisher | Candlewick Press |
| Page Count | 32 |
| Genre | Picture Book |
| Rating | 4.9 |
This book celebrates the anticipation and excitement of summer’s arrival. From swimming and s’mores to fireworks and bike rides, it’s a nostalgic and heartwarming look at the timeless traditions and life that make summer special for children and families.
Click here to buy the book: And Then Comes Summer by Tom Brenner
4. Mouse’s First Summer by Lauren Thompson
| Published Date | 2012 |
| Publisher | Simon & Schuster |
| Page Count | 32 |
| Genre | Picture Book |
| Rating | 4.6 |
Join Mouse and Minka on a delightful summer picnic! This adorable story follows two mice as they enjoy tasty treats and warm weather fun. Young readers will love the gentle text and charming illustrations that celebrate friendship and the simple pleasures of summer.
Click here to buy the book: Mouse’s First Summer by Lauren Thompson
5. Summer Color! by Diana Murray
| Published Date | 2018 |
| Publisher | Little, Brown |
| Page Count | 32 |
| Genre | Picture Book |
| Rating | 4.8 |
Children experience summer through a rainbow of colors in this colorful picture book. Rain or shine, the story’s rhyming text and bold illustrations show children making the most of every summer day, inspiring readers to see the beauty in the world around them.
Click here to buy the book: Summer Color! by Diana Murray
6. The Wonders of Summer by Kealy Connor Lonning
| Published Date | 2021 |
| Publisher | Independently Published |
| Page Count | 36 |
| Genre | Picture Book |
| Rating | 4.7 |
This heartfelt story follows a young girl and her father as they create lasting summer memories together. Through gentle prose and lovely illustrations, it captures the wonder and joy of the season, encouraging families to cherish time spent outdoors and together.
Click here to buy the book: The Wonders of Summer by Kealy Connor Lonning
7. The Bremen Town Musicians (SHAPLABOO Edition)
| Published Date | 2025 |
| Publisher | SHAPLABOO |
| Page Count | 32 |
| Genre | Fairy Tale |
| Rating | 4.6 |
This joyful retelling of a classic tale follows four animal friends on a quest for a better life. With themes of teamwork and perseverance, it’s perfect for summer group play and creative storytelling, especially with interactive shadow play kits for added fun.
Click here to buy the book: The Bremen Town Musicians (SHAPLABOO Edition)
8. Thumbelina (SHAPLABOO Edition)
| Published Date | 2025 |
| Publisher | SHAPLABOO |
| Page Count | 32 |
| Genre | Fairy Tale |
| Rating | 4.7 |
Tiny Thumbelina’s big adventures through fields, gardens, and streams embody the spirit of summer life. This edition encourages children to imagine magical landscapes and discover wonder in the smallest places, making it a gentle, hopeful summer read.
Click here to buy the book: Thumbelina (SHAPLABOO Edition)
9. Hattie Harmony, Worry Detective by Elizabeth Olsen & Robbie Arnett
| Published Date | 2022 |
| Publisher | Viking Books |
| Page Count | 40 |
| Genre | Picture Book |
| Rating | 4.8 |
Hattie Harmony helps friends tackle their worries with kindness and clever detective work. Set during summer, this story empowers children to talk about feelings and find comfort in friendship, making it a reassuring and engaging read for preschoolers.
Click here to buy the book: Hattie Harmony, Worry Detective by Elizabeth Olsen & Robbie Arnett
10. The World Belonged to Us by Jacqueline Woodson
| Published Date | 2022 |
| Publisher | Nancy Paulsen Books |
| Page Count | 32 |
| Genre | Picture Book |
| Rating | 4.8 |
This book is a lyrical celebration of childhood summers, filled with laughter, games, and the freedom of long days. Woodson’s poetic text and vibrant illustrations evoke nostalgia and encourage children to savor every moment of summer’s magic.
Click here to buy the book: The World Belonged to Us by Jacqueline Woodson
11. Groovy Joe: Ice Cream and Dinosaurs by Eric Litwin
| Published Date | 2016 |
| Publisher | Scholastic |
| Page Count | 40 |
| Genre | Picture Book |
| Rating | 4.7 |
Groovy Joe is ready for a summer of fun with music, ice cream, and dinosaurs! This playful, rhythmic story is perfect for reading aloud, encouraging movement, singing, and laughter as children join Joe’s cool times on a hot summer day.
Click here to buy the book: Groovy Joe: Ice Cream and Dinosaurs by Eric Litwin
Tips for Selecting the Best Summer Books for Your Preschoolers
Summer is the perfect time for preschoolers to find new stories and build a love for reading. Choosing the right books can make reading fun, educational, and memorable. The following are some tips for selecting the best summer books for preschoolers.
- Look for age-appropriate stories with simple plots and engaging illustrations.
- Choose books that match your child’s developmental stage and interests.
- Select stories that promote imagination and creativity, transporting children to new places.
- Pick books with relatable characters and emotions to support social-emotional growth.
- Opt for books that introduce new vocabulary and encourage conversation.
- Include diverse stories that reflect different cultures, families, and experiences.
- Involve your child in the selection process to boost their excitement for reading.
- Consider interactive elements like rhymes, repetition, or lift-the-flap features.
- Make sure the books are fun and light, capturing the joyful spirit of summer
Wrapping It Up
Summer reading doesn’t have to end when the season does. Summer books for preschoolers we’ve found today offer year-round benefits that extend far beyond sunny days.
Your preschooler has likely developed new interests and stronger reading habits through these carefully chosen titles.
Children who enjoy their early years often become confident readers later. The skills they’ve gained, vocabulary, attention span, and love for stories, will serve them well in school and beyond.
Visit your local library or bookstore this week. Let your child pick one book from our recommendations. Start a new bedtime routine or create a special reading corner at home.
