Soak Up the Sunshine with a Summer of Stories
Children’s Books to Dive Into This Summer
Summer is the perfect time to slow down, stretch out in the sunshine, and lose yourself in a really good book. Whether you're planning beach days, woodland walks, or rainy afternoons at home, summer reading with children creates special memories—and helps keep young minds curious and engaged when school’s out.
These brilliant books are perfect for sparking imaginations, spotting summer magic, and keeping the holiday vibes going strong—one page at a time.
🌼 For Little Explorers: Things to Spot in Summer by Kate Nolan and Lara Bryan
This charming, search-and-find book is ideal for curious younger readers. Packed with vibrant illustrations and simple prompts, it encourages children to notice the natural wonders of the season—from buzzing bees to ripening berries. It's perfect to pop in your bag for nature walks or car journeys, helping children connect reading with the world around them.
🐭 For Gentle Adventurers: Mouse by the Sea: A Holiday in Nature by Alice Melvin
A beautifully illustrated and lyrical story, this is a calming tale for quieter moments. Follow Mouse as she heads off on a simple seaside holiday, soaking up the details of the world around her—waves, wildflowers, and all. It's a lovely reminder that adventure doesn’t have to be loud or far away, and that small pleasures are often the most meaningful.
📓 For Tween Laughs: The Extremely Embarrassing Life of Lottie Brooks by Katie Kirby
For readers aged 9+, Lottie Brooks is a hilarious and relatable series that captures the awkwardness and hilarity of growing up. With diary-style writing, doodles, and laugh-out-loud honesty, it’s ideal for reluctant readers or anyone navigating the ups and downs of pre-teen life. Lottie is like a British answer to Dork Diaries—but funnier.
🍃 For Fantasy Lovers: Jed Greenleaf by Kieran Larwood
This new series from the author of Podkin One-Ear is full of magic, bravery, and forest folklore. Jed Greenleaf is a reluctant hero caught up in an ancient conflict—perfect for readers who enjoy a touch of mythology and adventure in their stories. With rich storytelling and a cast of unforgettable woodland characters, this one’s perfect for reading under a shady tree.
🌪️ For Big Imaginations: Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell
Rundell’s latest novel is a breathtaking epic, filled with mythical beasts, brave children, and heart-racing adventures. With echoes of His Dark Materials and The Chronicles of Narnia, this is a summer read for older children and young teens ready to be whisked away to magical realms. A real page-turner for long, lazy afternoons.
Summer and stories go hand in hand—and we’re all about that here at Chapters! Whether your little bookworms are reading in a tent, on a beach towel, or in a pillow fort at home, we’ve got stacks of brilliant books to keep them smiling (and reading) all summer long.
Pop in and see us if you fancy some recommendations — we love a good book chat. Happy summer and happy reading from all of us! 📚☀️