Six Children's Books To Kick Off Summer Reading

Traditionally, summer reading programs are designed to encourage elementary-aged children to keep reading during summer vacation. Preventing students from losing interest in literacy, continues to be the main objective of summer reading programs. For many families with elementary-aged children, the public library is the only community space available during the summer months where they can access free educational and cultural enrichment activities and programs. This summer, "Libraries Rock"! Children will be motivated to read, develop positive attitudes about reading, books, and the library, and have access to experiences that further their sense of discovery.  We have six books listed below to jump start your child into summer reading. 

Trombone Shorty

Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews relates his rise to iconic brass player in a story full of New Orleans musical history. Follow Shorty as he goes from trombone-playing prodigy to jazz Fest headliner. The only downside will be when your kid demands you take them to Mardi Gras, which probably isn’t quite the same experience with a toddler.

Octopus’s Garden

You know there’s only 2 Beatles left, right? Get your kid on board with the Fab Four with this book by Ringo, based on one of only 2 Beatles songs that he wrote. Because, “Don’t Pass Me By” isn’t going to hold their attention like a friendly octopus. Added bonus: give yourself a bedtime break with a CD of Ringo reading the story aloud.

Tito Puente: Mambo King

This bilingual story of this iconic Latin American percussionist is both a Spanish language and music lesson wrapped up in one colorful story. “King of Mambo” Tito Puente may encourage your kid to start banging pots and pans, but while your head is pounding, just keep reminding yourself: This is how Tito got his start.

Music over Manhattan

Bernie has lived his entire life in the shadow of his cousin Herbert.  But after Bernie's eccentric Uncle Louis teaches him to play the trumpet, he no longer has to play second fiddle to his cousin.  All of a sudden, "Background Bernie" is a big hit! And when he plays his favorite song, "Moonlight Over Manhattan," at a family wedding, Bernie's magic can't be ignored.

Before John Was a Jazz Giant: A Song of John Coltrane

Young John Coltrane was all ears. And there was a lot to hear growing up in the South in the 1930s: preachers praying, music on the radio, the bustling of the household. These vivid noises shaped John's own sound as a musician. Carole Boston Weatherford and Sean Qualls have composed an amazingly rich hymn to the childhood of jazz legend John Coltrane.

Zin! Zin! Zin! A Violin

Written in elegant and rhythmic verse and illustrated with playful and flowing artwork, this unique counting book is the perfect introduction to musical groups. Readers of all ages are sure to shout "Encore!" when they reach the final page of this joyous celebration of classical music.