Discover 30 hand-picked June books for kids ages 4–8, featuring fun summer stories, Father’s Day favorites, ocean adventures, and meaningful Juneteenth reads.
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June Books for Kids
Summer is here, and with it comes endless sunshine, sticky popsicles, and just the right amount of wiggle room in the daily routine to dive into a good book. As a mom and former Kindergarten teacher, I know how important it is to keep little minds active during the break—without making it feel like schoolwork.
That’s why I’ve hand-picked a special collection of June books that are perfect for your child’s summer days. Whether you’re reading together on a shady porch swing or your child is flipping pages solo in a cozy corner, these stories are sure to make summer fun, meaningful, and packed full of imagination.
Summer Themed Books
My Awesome Summer by P. Mantis by Paul Meisel
Told from the hilarious point of view of a praying mantis, this book is both laugh-out-loud funny and sneakily educational. Kids will love the comic-style illustrations while learning about the insect’s life cycle.
Perfect for: Budding bug lovers and curious readers who enjoy a unique perspective.
And Then Comes Summer by Tom Brenner
This lyrical ode to summer captures all the joyful anticipation of the season—ice cream trucks, flip-flops, lemonade stands, and late sunsets.
Perfect for: Sparking sensory memories and setting the mood for a carefree summer day.
The Night Before Summer Vacation by Natasha Wing
Inspired by The Night Before Christmas, this fun rhyming story captures the chaos, excitement, and anticipation of getting ready for a family trip.
Perfect for: Families heading out on vacation who want a relatable and silly pre-trip read.
Summer Is for Cousins by Rajani LaRocca
A heartfelt story about a big Indian American family gathering at the lake, this tale celebrates the joys of cousins, outdoor play, and shared memories.
Perfect for: Kids who treasure family time and summertime reunions.
Summer Vacation, Here I Come! by D.J. Steinberg
With rhymes full of humor and heart, this book captures classic summer moments—from ice cream to camping—in short, accessible poems.
Perfect for: Young readers who like quick, punchy stories and lots of seasonal laughs.
Mouse’s First Summer by Lauren Thompson
Simple text and gentle illustrations follow Mouse and Minka as they explore a summer picnic. It’s a sweet introduction to summer activities for younger readers.
Perfect for: Preschoolers and early readers easing into seasonal reading.
The Best Summer Books for Kids
ACTIVITY IDEAS: Summer Activity Bundle for Kids!
Father’s Day Books
How to Catch a Daddysaurus by Alice Walstead
This heartwarming rhyming book celebrates the bond between daughters and their dads, highlighting everyday moments of love and care.
Perfect for: A Father’s Day read-aloud that affirms the special relationship between girls and their dads.
Girl Dad by Sean Williams
A joyful celebration of the bond between fathers and daughters, Girl Dad highlights playful adventures and loving moments shared between them. With vibrant illustrations and rhythmic text, it’s the perfect read for dads and their little girls.
Perfect for: Father’s Day or anytime dads want to celebrate their special relationship with their daughters.
My Dad Is Amazing! by Sabrina Moyle
Bold, bright, and bursting with energy, this book from the creators of Hello!Lucky! is a celebration of all the amazing things dads do.
Perfect for: Giggles, hugs, and reading with a superdad.
Dad by My Side by Soosh
This sweet, tender book shows a father’s love through dreamy illustrations and minimal text—an ideal bedtime story.
Perfect for: Dads who love to cuddle up for storytime with their little ones.
Made for Me by Zack Bush
This tender, rhyming story captures the awe and love a father feels for his child from the moment they’re born. It’s soft, sweet, and deeply heartfelt.
Perfect for: Bedtime snuggles and reminding kids just how much they’re loved.
My Dad Loves Me! by Marianne Richmond
A charming celebration of the many ways dads show love, from playing and exploring to comforting and guiding.
Perfect for: Sharing a moment of appreciation with the awesome dad in your child’s life.
ACTIVITY IDEA: Easy Father’s Day Craft
Swimming Books for Kids
Curious George Goes Swimming by H. A. Rey
George’s curiosity gets the best of him as he heads to the pool and stirs up mischief in the most charming way.
Perfect for: Young swimmers building confidence or prepping for their own splashy adventures.
Dino-Swimming by Lisa Wheeler
Dinosaurs in swim class? Yes, please! This rhyming romp blends humor and water safety in a way kids adore.
Perfect for: Dino fans who need a nudge to enjoy the pool.
Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
Jabari wants to be brave, but that diving board is really high. A touching story about overcoming fear and trying something new.
Perfect for: Kids facing new challenges and learning to take the leap.
Rosie the Dragon and Charlie Make Waves by Lauren H. Kerstein
Rosie the dragon and her boy Charlie head to the pool—and things don’t quite go as planned. Silly, sweet, and full of friendship.
Perfect for: Imaginative kids and those learning the value of patience and teamwork.
1, 2, 3, Jump! by Lisl H. Detlefsen
This cheerful picture book introduces swim lessons step-by-step, showing the fun (and the nerves) of the first splash.
Perfect for: Little ones gearing up for swim lessons or who are new to the water.
Cannonball by Sacha Cotter
With bright illustrations and a unique voice, this joyful book is all about finding your style and making a splash—your way.
Perfect for: Free spirits who love being themselves and making bold moves.
The Best Collection of Water Books for Kids
ACTIVITY IDEAS: Water Activities for Summer Fun with Kids!
Ocean Books for Kids
Over and Under the Waves by Kate Messner
A beautifully written and illustrated look at life above and below the ocean surface, blending storytelling and science.
Perfect for: Nature lovers and beachcombers curious about ocean ecosystems.
Commotion in the Ocean by Giles Andreae
Playful rhymes and silly sea creatures make this a perennial favorite for storytime fun.
Perfect for: Wiggly listeners and ocean-animal enthusiasts.
Ocean! Waves for All by Stacy McAnulty
Narrated by the ocean itself, this clever book is packed with fun facts and personality.
Perfect for: Kids who like their nonfiction with a splash of sass.
Swashby and the Sea by Beth Ferry
A salty old sea captain and a spirited little girl become unlikely friends in this touching tale.
Perfect for: Fans of heartwarming stories with subtle humor and a strong setting.
A House for Hermit Crab by Eric Carle
With Carle’s signature collage art, this story follows a hermit crab as he grows and decorates his new shell.
Perfect for: Preschoolers learning about growth, change, and creativity.
Shark Lady by Jess Keating
The inspiring true story of Eugenie Clark, a fearless female scientist who loved sharks and changed how the world sees them.
Perfect for: Aspiring marine biologists and kids who love powerful role models.
Take a moment now to explore more of our favorite Ocean Books for Kids!
ACTIVITY IDEAS: 30+ Ocean Activities for Kids
Juneteenth Books for Kids
The Juneteenth Story: Celebrating the End of Slavery in the United States by Alliah L. Agostini
A thoughtful, age-appropriate introduction to Juneteenth, complete with vibrant illustrations and clear explanations.
Perfect for: Families looking to celebrate and honor this important day in American history.
The History of Juneteenth by Arlisha Norwood PhD
Part of the “History of” series, this engaging nonfiction book explores the origins and significance of Juneteenth.
Perfect for: Curious kids ready to dive deeper into the historical context of the holiday.
Juneteenth: A Children’s Story by Opal Lee
Written by the “Grandmother of Juneteenth” herself, this book tells the story through the eyes of children and connects past to present.
Perfect for: Teaching kids how one person (even a child!) can help create change.
All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom by Angela Johnson
Told from a child’s perspective, this poetic and beautifully illustrated story captures the emotion and significance of emancipation day.
Perfect for: Sharing history through the power of storytelling and beautiful prose.
Juneteenth for Mazie by Floyd Cooper
Mazie learns about the struggles and triumphs of her ancestors as she prepares to celebrate Juneteenth with her family.
Perfect for: Younger readers learning about family history, freedom, and celebration.
Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free by Alice Faye Duncan
A powerful tribute to Opal Lee’s activism, this book celebrates courage, perseverance, and the ongoing fight for justice.
Perfect for: Inspiring kids to dream big and stand up for what’s right.
ACTIVITY IDEAS: 4 Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth with Kids
Final Thoughts on June Books
No matter where summer takes you—whether it’s the beach, the backyard, or just a cozy corner of the couch—these stories are perfect companions for sunny days and growing minds. As a mom and former Kindergarten teacher, I know how powerful books can be in helping kids explore, connect, and dream. I hope this June collection brings joy, sparks curiosity, and makes your month full of laughter, learning, and love.
Want to keep the reading fun going all month long?
Be sure to download our free June Activity Calendar, packed with themed story days, simple activity ideas, and fun ways to build a love of books all summer long.
You may also enjoy these activities with your child this summer…
