Reading Rockets offers reading comprehension and language arts teaching strategies for kids, and is a free web site for parents and educators
star1 star2 star3
Summer Reading

2008 Big Summer Read


Whether children and families vacation away or stay near home, these are essential. No summer is complete without them. They travel well in cars or buses, on boats, on trains or planes. They tuck into suitcases, backpacks, and under arms. Most can be opened without electricity and are easily shared among many. They're fun and are good for children and adults alike! And the long summer days are a great time for children to engage with these alone or can be shared with children.

What are we talking about? Books and reading, of course! Whether reading books with eyes (examining the pages of books) or with listening to audio books, studies show that this portable, pleasurable activity has potent benefits for children.

So grab a book, find a comfy place, and enjoy!

Click below to browse through the buying guide online or download the 2008 guide (555K PDF)* as a one-page handout you can easily take to the library or store.

Books for 6-9 Year Olds

Magic Pickle

You'll find awesome books for second and third graders, such as Science on the Loose and If the Shoe Fits.

Books for 3-6 Year Olds

Do Unto Otters: A Book About Manners

You'll find terrific books for first and second graders, such as Before John Was a Jazz Giant and Scaredy Squirrel at the Beach.

Books for 0-3 Year Olds

Such a Silly Baby

You'll find fabulous books for toddlers and preschoolers, such as Grandma Calls Me Beautiful and Alphabet.

Audio Books

Arthur: Anniversary Collection

You'll find fun audio books, such as Poems and Folktales and Stink the Incredible Shrinking Kid

* To view this file, you'll need a copy of Acrobat Reader. Most computers already have it installed, or you can download it now.

Free newsletters

Join Reading Rockets on Facebook!

"Reading Rockets is an outstanding professional resource! Thanks for the plethora of helpful information and ideas."
~ Gail G.

Colorin Colorado
A star is born. Fine new resources. The Learning Store. Shop now.