Summer Reads

Shining Summer Reads for Your Child’s Summer Reading Challenge

By

Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library may be halfway through its Summer Reading Challenge, but there is still more than enough time for your child to read and claim prizes by July 31.

Check out these colorful summer-themed picture books to get your child to their 24-hour reading goal.

A Cozy Summer Day by Eliza Wheeler

In this sun-dappled story, the animal residents of Acorn Village celebrate long summer days outdoors with only the coziest of activities. Bunnies nibble in strawberry patches, dive into swimming holes, nap in nooks and end the day with stories around a campfire.

Summer is for Cousins by Rajani LaRocca

Three generations of family and seven cousins gather at a lake house for summer adventures. Second-youngest cousin Ravi narrates jumping off rope swings and sharing favorite ice cream flavors as he reflects on how he and his cousins grow more between each summer.

Bright Lights and Summer Nights by Shauntay Grant

Mother Moon arrives to take a restless toddler through a nighttime dreamworld in this dreamy story inspired by “Good Night Moon.” Stars twinkle and glowing fireflies frolic as the tot experiences a nighttime carnival full of rides, food and forest creatures.

Paletero Man by Lucky Diaz

In this bilingual children’s story, a young boy greets his neighbors as he races through Los Angeles, determined to get to Paletero José’s cart and buy an ice pop. When the boy realizes he dropped his pocket money, he must rely on his neighbors to help him pay for a sweet treat to cool down the summer day.

Summer Solstice Wish by Kate Allen Fox

A community gathers to celebrate the longest day of the year in their flower garden, picking flowers and weaving crowns to symbolize their friendship and connection to nature. The book includes a guide to making your own flower crowns with your child.

This Beach Is Loud! by Samantha Cotterill

A little boy’s much-anticipated beach day hits a snag when he is overwhelmed by the new sounds and textures. Part of the Little Senses series for kids on the autism spectrum or with sensory issues, this book tells the story of a father and son working together to adjust to new experiences and have a fun beach day.

Magick Hoodoo Child by Amber McBride

Juniper escapes her bullying classmates and goes to visit Grandma for the summer. This lushly illustrated book explores her connection to her ancestors through Grandma’s loving teachings.

Everybelly by Thao Lam

Our waist-high narrator, Maddie, greets the bellies of all of her neighbors at the public pool. Illustrated with vibrant paper collages, this book celebrates every body taking a swim this summer.

The World Belonged to Us by Jacqueline Woodson

This lyrical picture book celebrates the freedom of a 1970s summer for the kids on one Brooklyn block. Kids rule the outdoors, jumping double-Dutch, chasing ice cream trucks, running through hydrants and playing street games until their moms call them home for dinner.

Other Stories You Might LOVE:

*Originally published in the July 2026 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine.