There’s nothing quite like cracking open a good book! Summer is the perfect time of year to head outside, find a nice shady spot under a tree, and get lost in a fantasy, romance, or some science fiction. It is also a great way to encourage your kids to read, too. By reading a book, you are teaching your tiny ones to enjoy reading and you are keeping your school-aged kiddos engaged during their summer breaks. 
There are awesome opportunities all over Kansas City that can help get your whole family into a good book! Here are just a few:
Kansas
Johnson County Libraries – Find a story time, check out a “Books To Go” kit, and sign up for the summer reading program. Join a book group for yourself!
Olathe Public Libraries – Story times, summer reading programs, and a “Meet and Eat” lunch program for the little ones.
Story time in the Village – Attend a Wednesday story time under the clock tower.
Missouri
Kansas City Public Libraries – Reading programs for the whole family. Don’t forget to check out the Event calendar!
North Kansas City Public Libraries – Find story times, get the whole family involved in a reading program, learn to crochet, or attend a community education event.
Mid-Continent Public Libraries – So many great opportunities for summer reading.
Rainy Day Books – Author events abound! Moms, this is for you! Find a great new read and sit in on a conversation with the author.
If your summer reading programs are inspiring you to open a new book, here are a few reads that are perfect for this summer:
Book Suggestions for Mom
Where’d You Go, Bernadette – Will be hitting theaters soon!
The Goldfinch – Also hitting theaters soon.
Daisy Jones and the Six – This book has been hitting all the bestseller lists recently!
Book Suggestions for Older Kids
Harry Potter – Always a good choice, but even better as the illustrated versions are being released!
The Hate U Give – Recently turned into a movie and culturally relevant, this one is a great conversation starter.
Scary Stories to Tell In the Dark – Warning: these are truly scary! I was haunted by these as a kid, and I’m currently working up the courage to see the new film when it comes out.
Book Suggestions for Younger Kids
Good Night, Little Blue Truck – Every little one’s favorite blue truck is back!
Jabari Jumps – Swimming pools and bravery make a great summer combo.
Even Super Heroes Have Bad Days – A great book about character.
For more suggestions, check out Amazon’s list of top New Releases for Kids!
