Best Summer Picture Books For Kids
1. What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday
Julia Donaldson’s ladybird is off on a holiday! The story follows on from the popular “What The Ladybird Heard”, and the clever, crime-busting ladybird is back to stop two crooks from stealing the crown jewels! The book highlights the fun and excitement of holiday adventures while teaching kids about problem-solving and teamwork. Donaldson's engaging storytelling and rhythmic writing pair wonderfully with Lydia Monks' vibrant illustrations, making this a great summer tale for young readers.
2. What the Ladybird Heard at the Seaside
In this seaside setting, the clever ladybird once again foils the plans of the thieving, dastardly duo with her quick thinking. With more of Julia Donaldson's trademark rhymes and Lydia Monks' colourful illustrations, this book is a delightful read. The seaside setting is ideal for summer, and the story teaches children lessons about using ingenuity to solve problems.
3. Sharing a Shell
Another charming story by Julia Donaldson follows three sea creatures learning to share a shell. Beautifully illustrated by Lydia Monks, the rhythmic text and vivid pictures teach children valuable lessons about cooperation and friendship. Donaldson's knack for storytelling set against a beach backdrop makes it an ideal summer read that children will love.
4. The Biggest Story
It has dinosaurs! It has monkeys! It has sling-shotting cats and parachuting sheep!
Sarah Coyle’s enchanting story about a boy who discovers the power of storytelling in his garden is brought to life with wonderful illustrations. This book helps to inspire children to use their own creativity and imagination in their writing, making it a wonderful read for summer when children have time to dream and create their own stories. It even has a guide at the back to help kids come up with their imaginative tales!
5. The Rhyming Rabbit
"The Rhyming Rabbit" follows a poetic rabbit who feels out of place until he meets a fellow poet. Julia Donaldson’s lyrical writing and Lydia Monks' charming illustrations come together in this lovable tale that addresses more serious issues, such as loneliness and the sense of belonging, with light-hearted storytelling that makes it relatable for children. This book not only has some lessons about individuality but also encourages creativity and the joy of poetry, making it a great summer read for budding young wordsmiths.
6. Boogie Bear
David Walliams’ "Boogie Bear" tells the story of a polar bear who ends up in a new, warmer home and meets brown bears who are annoyed and don't want it there. It’s a fun, heart-warming story about acceptance that is wonderfully illustrated by Tony Ross. The adventurous plot and lively characters make it a great summer read that encourages children to embrace each other’s differences and make new friends, even in unfamiliar environments.
7. Spot Loves His Friends
Eric Hill’s classic character Spot enjoys fun outdoor activities with his friends in this lift-the-flap book. The simple but engaging storyline, familiar characters, and interactive elements make it perfect for entertaining your little ones and an ideal choice for summer reading and travel.
8. Thomas & Friends: Thomas' Day Off
This story from the "Thomas & Friends" series follows Thomas the Tank Engine on one of his days off as he gets up to all sorts of fun chasing a beach ball! The book is great for younger readers as it has simple text and familiar characters. The theme of enjoying leisure time is perfect for summer, encouraging kids to relax and explore new activities, just like Thomas.
9. The Bear’s Water Picnic
In this delightful tale, John Yeoman and Quentin Blake team up to tell the story of a bear and his friends enjoying a sunny picnic by the water. Blake’s ever-whimsical illustrations and Yeoman’s engaging narrative capture the joys of sunny picnics and friendship, making it a charming read for the summer. This book will have your little ones desperate to play outside and enjoy nature, too!
10. Not Now, Bernard
David McKee’s classic story is perfect for any season, but it is especially impactful when school’s out and there are lots of things to do and fun to be had. It reminds us of the importance of being present and listening to each other. The whimsical illustrations and humorous yet poignant narrative will resonate with both children and adults, making it a brilliant book to read together in summer.
11. Topsy and Tim Go Camping
Topsy and Tim explore the great outdoors on a camping trip while learning new things and enjoying nature. The story encourages kids to get outside for some outdoor exploration and fun and is a great summer read. Jean and Gareth Adamson’s classic series remains relatable and well-loved by younger readers.
12. Near and Far
"Near and Far" by Oakley Graham takes readers on an adventure around the world through simple text and engaging illustrations. It helps children to be observant of their surroundings and encourages outdoor exploration. This educational book is perfect for young readers as it makes learning fun and interactive, which is especially important during the summer when school’s out.
13. Healthy Habits: Kangaroo's Guide to Keeping Fit
Lisa Edwards introduces children to healthy habits through a fun and engaging story about a kangaroo. This book encourages physical activity and healthy living which is important for keeping kids active during the summer months. The lively illustrations and positive messages make it a motivating read which helps to promote a healthy lifestyle for young children.
14. Bing: Paddling Pool
In this delightful story from the hit TV series, Bing and his friends enjoy a day at the paddling pool. The simple text and familiar characters from the popular show make it an engaging read, and the summer setting is perfect for encouraging outdoor play and water activities.
15. Hey Duggee: The Caterpillar Badge
Duggee and the Squirrels earn their ‘Caterpillar Badge’ in this fun and educational book. The story combines themes of nature and exploration, making it ideal for summer reading. The interactive elements and fun story will delight young readers and encourage them to explore the natural world to earn their own “badges” of knowledge.
16. Bluey: The Pool
From the widely loved TV series comes a picture book story of Bluey and her family enjoying a day at the pool. It celebrates the joy of family time and the excitement and playfulness of summer days spent by the pool, encouraging children to make the most of their own summer adventures.
17. Topsy and Tim: Learn to Swim
In this story, Topsy and Tim learn to swim by facing their fears and having fun. This book encourages children to try new things and overcome challenges, even if they are a bit scary. The relatable characters and supportive narrative make it a great read for little ones who are learning to swim or just looking forward to spending time in the water during the summer.
18. Animals: Big Words for Little Experts
This educational book by Miles Kelly is full of information and bright illustrations. It introduces young readers to complex vocabulary through fun animal facts which is perfect for keeping kids intellectually stimulated during the summer.
19. Bing: Ducks
In this adorable story, Bing learns about ducks and nature. The simple narrative and lovable characters make it a great read for young children to follow along with, and the outdoor theme encourages interaction with nature, especially on summer days.
Happy Reading!
And just like that, you have our top selections of the best picture books about summer. Perfect for lazy afternoons, read-alouds, or bedtime stories, these books are great for helping you and your child enjoy the season. So grab a book, find a sunny spot, and enjoy some summer reading together.
We’ve got all sorts of other children’s books and picture books in our range. But, if you’re looking for some summer activities to do with your kids other than reading, we’ve got loads of free printable activity sheets for kids to do, or check out our post for some easy and fun summer crafts for kids.
