By the Southern Schoolhouse
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Ten Summer Reading Picks for K–1 Students
The Camping Trip by Jennifer K. Mann
A realistic, fun story about a young girl going on her first camping trip with her aunt and cousin.
We Don’t Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins
A hilarious story about a dinosaur starting school and learning how to treat classmates.
Llama Llama Sand & Sun by Anna Dewdney
A sunny, rhyming board book that captures the joy of a summer day at the beach.
Froggy’s Lemonade Stand by Jonathan London
While part of the Froggy series, this book focuses on a classic summer activity—setting up a lemonade stand. It’s told in a silly, story-based format kids love and is full of simple vocabulary and humor.
Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall–
This book follows Jabari, a young boy who’s ready to jump off the diving board for the first time.
A Pocket Full of Rocks by Kristin Mahoney
A story about imagination and the beauty of simple treasures found in nature.
A story about a creative girl who uses boxes to invent and build, encouraging STEM thinking and problem-solving.
A realistic, relatable story that celebrates resilience, love, and making the most of moments.
The Pigeon Has to Go to School! by Mo Willems
A silly and relatable story about facing fears and new experiences and great for kids entering school in the fall.
We Don’t Lose Our Class Goldfish by Ryan T. Higgins
A funny and engaging early reader book that blends humor and responsibility with lovable classroom chaos.
