Summer is here, and that means summer reading is in full gear. During the summer months, reading with children is one way to counteract the “summer slide,” or loss of academic skills when school is not in session. Here are a few curated local books for children under the age of 10.
“Dinos Down South ABC” by Ashlyn Blanchard
“Dinos Down South ABC,” written by Ashlyn Blanchard; illustrated by Alexandra Elliot
In “Dinos Down South ABC,” 26 dinosaurs rhyme their way through the letters of the alphabet and the landmarks of the South. Join the Ankylosaurus on a jaunt to the Atchafalaya Basin or watch the Zuniceratops hang with zebras at the Audubon Zoo. Discover why dinosaurs make the best local tour guides. For children ages 3 to 6.
“Hannah Bear and LuLu’s Southern Sneaux Party,” written by Julie Hooks; illustrated by Drew Beech
“Hannah Bear and Lulu’s Southern Sneaux Party” by Julie Hooks
The air is crisp in the Honey Hollow Woods, and the sister cubs are busy getting ready for their big winter party. But Magnolia, the newest resident of the woods, is feeling homesick and missing her favorite part of the season: snow. Determined to make their new friend feel welcome, Hannah and LuLu spring into action with a plan — and one ingredient that could make all the difference.
This picture book is a tale of friendship, creativity and the magic of the season. For children ages 3 to 8.
“Henry the Star-Spangled Spaniel,” written by Amanda Martin; illustrated by Zoya Malik
“Henry the Star-Spangled Spaniel” by Amanda Martin
“Henry the Star-Spangled Spaniel” is a 32-page illustrated children’s book that follows a courageous and curious pup on a time-travel adventure through America’s founding moments, encouraging literacy, imagination and a deeper understanding of history.
Henry, a curious Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, discovers that his birthday is shared with the United States of America. The book is a fun way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday.
“Mo Skeedeaux Visits the Smoky Mountains,” written by Sheila Wells Flynn
“Mo Skeedeaux Visits the Smoky Mountains” by Sheila Wells Flynn.
This story about Mo blends adventure, imagination and emotional learning through the journey of a Cajun mosquito. Mo leaves the familiar Louisiana bayou and explores the misty peaks of the Smoky Mountains. Along the way, the story gently introduces themes of curiosity, emotional awareness and resilience. For children ages 4 to 9.
“Roux’s First Day,” written by Julie Gerdes Becnel and illustrated by Cullen Bernard
“Roux’s First Day” by Julie Gerdes Becnel
Roux has never felt so nervous. She’s about to begin “kinder-swamp-garten,” and she will be the only rougarou in her class. As she walks to school beneath the towering cypress trees, one by one, fellow swamp creatures join in, each one different from the next.
With their help, Roux’s jitters melt into joy, and she discovers that what makes us different is also what makes us shine. Roux’s tale is a celebration of belonging, courage and the magic of being yourself. For children ages 3 to 8.
“Where’d You Go, Kitty,” written by Samantha Schott Boudreaux; illustrated by Kimberly Broadbridge Navarrete
“Where’d You Go, Kitty?” by Samantha Schott Boudreaux
A little girl named Cecilia catches a prized parade throw, a little stuffed orange cat, at a Mardi Gras parade, and the two become inseparable. Cecilia names her stuff animal “Kitty” and takes it everywhere, including some of New Orleans most iconic venues, such as Café du Monde, City Park and Sal’s Snoballs in Metairie. Cecilia is always misplacing Kitty, but someone always finds it until they can’t. For children ages 5 to 8.
