50 Must-Read Picture Books for Summer

Turn long summer days into reading adventures with these colorful picture books made to be shared again and again.

Apr 27, 2026

Ages

3-10

50 Must-Read Picture Books for Summer

Apr 27, 2026

During the summertime, inspiring your child to maintain a reading routine and encouraging them to practice important reading skills outside of the classroom can take some creativity. However, with the right books reading can be a delightful experience for you and your growing reader. With 50 fun titles on this list ranging from adventures in the great outdoors to characters that will have kids rolling with laughter — there is something for the whole family! 

Plus, dive into these fun summer reading challenges to complete together as a family.

If you have a pool day planned or even are heading off to swimming lessons, be sure to check out When You Can Swim — a lyrical and poetic book about what it truly means to swim.

There's also Millie Fleur's Poison Garden, an affirmational story for kids that celebrates all the wonderfully weird things that make each of us uniquely who we are. Millie Fleur finds her garden of unusual plants enchanting, but the townspeople of Garden Glen call it poison. Can she find the kindred spirits who see things as she does? Fans of the book can also preorder the next title, Millie Fleur Saves the Nightin which Millie helps the town find beauty in the darkness. 

Some books will spark belly laughs; others will inspire memorable conversations. Explore these beloved picture books with readers of all ages—invite independent readers to share stories with younger siblings or rediscover treasured favorites together with fresh eyes this summer. Perfect for multiple reading levels, these books help build skills while reminding readers what summer reading is really about: the pure joy of getting lost in a great story.

Below is our list of 50 must-read picture books and ideal friends for long, summer days and relaxed family time. You can also discover more expert tips and book recommendations with our ultimate summer reading guide.

Ready to dive in? Shop picture books for summer below! You can find all books and activities at The Scholastic Store.

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