15 Summer Picture Books

In summer with kids sometimes I want to spent time with them and yet do something lazy. Some summer days are for hiking and swimming and some days are for vicariously hiking or swimming through a book while you sit on your couch in the AC.

I am picky about what just “feels” summery to me and I can't explain the process totally but it usually involves nature or fun or fun in nature. Here are the results.

The Little Island

I say yes to Maine. These illustrations kill me.

I Love the Mountains

I love the rolling hills, need I say more?

Spot Goes to the Beach

This one seems to be out of print but my nostalgia says yes.

Summer Feet

Shoes are for winter.

George and Martha: The Complete Stories of 2 Best Friends

These books are a crowd pleaser anytime but all of them together makes for a chill afternoon and there are plenty of hammocks, gardens, and high dives to make it a good choice for a summer day.

The Little Blue Cottage

If you are looking for coastal grandmother vibes here you go.

Linnea's Almanac

This one also seems to only be available on thriftbooks and goes through the whole year but I find the summer months particularly magical. I loved this book when I was a kid. My son loves it too and it makes him want to explore nature more.

This Moose Belongs to Me

Mountains. Check. Funny. Check.

The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry, and the Big Hungry Bear

A classic book with a summery strawberry. (Here’s hoping my strawberry patch does better next year.)

Watercress

Summer plants spur poignant conversations.

Hike

I used to think there weren’t a lot of picture books about hiking but now there are quite a lot. I like this one.

Over and Under the Pond

A true nature book is just what you need sometimes.

Frog and Toad All Year

Okay okay, this classic technically has snow in it but the ice cream chapter is a must for summer.

Grand Canyon

We usually go to the desert in the summer or a national park and this book is a great way to celebrate that.

Everything You Need for a Treehouse

My kids love this one and I do too.

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