Books you must read this summer!

It's August, so of course we're thinking about summer reading!

If you're like us, the sun is shining and you want to relax and escape into another world with some books. But where do you begin? What are some good summer reads? And how can you ensure that your children enjoy reading with you this season?

We've got a few books that we think you'll love! Here are some of our favorites:

The Last Bear by Hannah Gold (Age rating: 5+)

This moving story will capture the hearts of children all over the world, proving that no one is too young or insignificant to make a difference. The Last Bear is a celebration of a child's love for an animal, a battle cry for our planet, and an irresistible adventure with a heart as big as a bear's.

Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley (Age rating: 14+)

If you like mystery, crime fiction and coming of age, here's one you should consider reading! Firekeeper's Daughter has a riveting plot that has all the hallmarks of a crime thriller while also questioning all of the genre's usual assumptions about culture and justice.

Not My Problem by Ciara Smyth (Age rating: 13+)

This is a fantastic and imaginative coming of age novel that is witty and humorous while still dealing with difficult but relatable topics about loneliness, unexpected love, and the emotional connections that come with true friendship. Aideen becomes the school 'fixer' unexpectedly, she starts to wonder: can every problem be solved?

The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Rauf, Pippa Curnick (Age rating: 8+)

Told with wit and heart, this novel offers a child's perspective on the refugee crisis, emphasising the value of friendship and kindness in a world that doesn't always make sense. This relatable, kid-friendly story reminds readers that everyone deserves a safe place to call home.

Fall Off, Get Back On, Keep Going by Clare Balding, Jessica Holm (Age rating: 9+)

'Falling off' is all part of life. The trick is to know how to dust yourself off, get back on, learn from your mistakes - and keep going! This book gives some great advice for young people on how to develop a positive mindset.

Have you read any of these? Try reading them with your kids, too!