The Best Diverse Summer Reading Books for Young Kids

Juneteenth 2021 marked a significant milestone in American history as it became a federal holiday, thanks to President Biden. While the Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, true freedom for enslaved people in Galveston, Texas did not come until June 19, 1865—two and a half years later. Juneteenth is a day of celebration, liberation, and reflection on the ongoing Black freedom struggle. This holiday reminds us of the importance of education—one of the key freedoms gained after emancipation.

Education is a crucial tool for empowerment, and one of the best ways to encourage learning is through summer reading books. Our ancestors fought for the right to be educated, and today, we must continue advocating for high-quality education for all children. One of the simplest ways to bridge educational gaps and ensure continued growth is by fostering a love of reading, especially during the summer months when academic engagement tends to decline.

The Importance of Summer Reading Books

Summer is often associated with relaxation and leisure, but it can also be a time for enrichment. Many students experience a "summer slide," where their reading and comprehension skills decline due to a lack of academic engagement. Encouraging children to read summer reading books can help prevent this decline and ensure they are prepared for the next school year.

According to research, children who read during the summer perform better when school resumes, compared to those who do not. Summer reading books allow students to explore new ideas, cultures, and experiences, keeping their minds active and engaged.

How to Choose the Best Summer Reading Books

Selecting the right summer reading books is crucial in ensuring that children remain interested and motivated. Here are a few strategies:

1. Pick Age-Appropriate Books – Ensure that the books match the child’s reading level to avoid frustration or boredom.
2. Include Multicultural and Diverse Books – Representation matters. Children benefit from seeing characters who reflect their own identities and experiences.
3. Choose a Mix of Fiction and Non-Fiction – Fiction enhances creativity, while non-fiction provides valuable knowledge and real-world connections.
4. Select Books Based on Interests – If a child loves animals, history, or sports, choosing books on these topics can make reading more enjoyable.
5. Consider Award-Winning Books – Books that have received awards, such as the Coretta Scott King Award or Newbery Medal, are often well-written and impactful.

Recommended Summer Reading Books

In a recent episode of The Parenting Cipher, Stephanie Moran-Reed discussed the importance of multicultural and diverse books, highlighting how difficult they can be to find. Here is a list of summer reading books that she recommends:

Elementary School (Ages 5-10)

1. Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o – A beautifully illustrated book that encourages self-love and acceptance.
2. Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes – A celebration of Black culture and confidence.
3. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson – A story about embracing differences and finding courage.
4. Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal – A touching story about identity and family heritage.
5. Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry – A sweet story about a father-daughter bond centered around hair care.

Middle School (Ages 11-14)

1. New Kid by Jerry Craft – A graphic novel about navigating a new school and cultural differences.
2. Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes – A powerful book tackling racism and social justice.
3. Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson – A memoir in verse reflecting on growing up as an African American girl.
4. Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhhà Lê – A poetic story about a refugee family's transition to the U.S.
5. A Good Kind of Trouble by Lisa Moore Ramée – A coming-of-age novel addressing activism and identity.

High School (Ages 15+)

1. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas – A gripping novel addressing police brutality and racial injustice.
2. Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds & Ibram X. Kendi – A powerful non-fiction book exploring the history of racism in America.
3. Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo – A novel-in-verse about two sisters separated by tragedy.
4. Dear Martin by Nic Stone – A thought-provoking book about racial profiling and social justice.
5. Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds – A novel written in free verse that addresses gun violence and grief.

Making Summer Reading a Habit

To ensure that children stay engaged with summer reading books, here are some effective strategies:

• Create a Reading Schedule – Set aside a specific time each day for reading.
• Join a Library Summer Reading Program – Many libraries offer incentives for kids who complete reading goals.
• Read as a Family – Model good reading habits by reading together and discussing books.
• Encourage Book Discussions – Ask open-ended questions about the story and characters.
• Incorporate Audiobooks – For reluctant readers, audiobooks can provide an enjoyable alternative.

The Role of Parents in Summer Reading

Parents play a crucial role in fostering a love for reading. By taking an active interest in their child’s reading habits and making summer reading books a shared experience, they can help instill a lifelong appreciation for literature. Encouraging diverse reading materials helps broaden perspectives, increase empathy, and promote inclusivity.

Final Thoughts

Summer is an excellent time to slow down, strengthen family bonds, and encourage learning through summer reading books. Whether your child is an early reader or a high school student, there are books that can captivate their interest and expand their knowledge. This summer, let’s take inspiration from the past and ensure our children embrace the gift of education through engaging and meaningful reading experiences.

By making reading a fun and rewarding activity, we can help our children develop strong literacy skills, a deep appreciation for storytelling, and a lifelong love of books. Happy summer reading.

Take a look, click the book:

ABC D is Ability by Natassia Williamson (group represented – many)

ABC Now I Know Common Disabilities by Elsie Guerrero (group represented – many)

The Abilities in Me (series) by Gemma Keir (group represented – many)

I Am Me by Tristan Towns & Lacey Howard (group represented – many)

I’m No Different Than You by Jaime Mahaffey & Kristy High (group represented – Sickle Cell Disease)

If You Could Hear My Hands by Ana Maritza Rivera (group represented – deafness)

Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You! by Sonia Sotomayor, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (group represented – many)

Marvelous Margaux by Liz Subrin (group represented – Dup15Q)

My Busy Busy Brain by Nicole Russell (group represented – ADHD)

My Friend Jen: A Little Different by Jenica Leah (group represented – Sickle Cell Disease)

My Skin has Shapes by Rayna Best (group represented – skin discoloration)

Nia Skye’s Friend on Wheels by Keylonda Wheeler (group represented – wheelchair bound)

Rae’s First Day by Danny Jordan (group represented – upper limb difference)

Super Cells by Princess Walls (group represented – Sickle Cell Disease)

For more children’s books about multicultural and diverse topics, check out Stephanie’s online store named after her multicultural daughter, Mija Books.