Beat the “Summer Slide” with 8 Books to Keep Young Brains Active

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With summer approaching, it’s important to keep kids engaged and their minds active. According to recent data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress, only 67% of eighth graders and 60% of fourth graders demonstrate at least a basic reading level—the lowest rates recorded since 1992.

This summer,

help your child stay on track by encouraging regular reading. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, this lineup of exciting books will help your young reader expand their minds, explore new interests, and stay curious through the break. From trivia books to historical fiction, these titles will keep kids learning and entertained until school starts again.

For Dinosaur Lovers:

Jurassic Girl by Michele C. Hollow
September 2024, $14.95
Perfect for children interested in learning about dinosaurs, fossils, and women in STEM, this historical fiction book for children explores the fascinating life of 12-year-old Mary Anning, a fossil hunter who would grow up to be a famous paleontologist.

For Your Young Athlete:

Sports Superstars from Black History by Sophia Murphy
October 2024, $15.95
Inspire your young sports fan with 12 stories of Black athletes who overcame seemingly impossible odds and insurmountable challenges to achieve their dreams and make a name for themselves.

For Mythology Enthusiasts:

Introduction to Igbo Mythology for Kids by Chinelo Anyadiegwu
January 2023, $14.95
This introduction to the core Igbo deities, including a collection of the most popular Igbo myths, folktales, and legends, will immerse kids in exciting stories of tricksters, shapeshifters, and heroes.

Introduction to Greek Mythology for Kids by Richard Marcus, Natalie Buczynsky, and Jonathan Shelnutt
May 2021, $14.95
Discover the exciting and fascinating world of Greek and Roman gods, goddesses, monsters, and heroes, from Zeus and Athena to Hercules, Medusa, and more!

Introduction to Norse Mythology for Kids by Peter Aperlo
May 2021, $14.95
Immerse your young reader in the dangerous, fascinating, and awesome world of Norse heroes, monsters, gods, and goddesses, from Thor and Loki to Odin, Frey, and many more.

For Young Trivia Buffs:

Big Book of Horse Trivia for Kids by Bernadette Johnson
February 2023, $15.95
Saddle up and take the reins as you discover more than you ever knew about horses, ponies, and other four-legged friends from the family Equidae in this epic horse trivia book written just for kids!

Curious Cases: True Crime for Kids by Rebecca Valley
July 2022, $9.95
Introduce middle-grade readers to the intriguing and exciting history of true crime, including capers, stories, unsolved crimes, daring escapes, famous art heists, and much more, in this first-ever true crime book specifically for kids.

WWII Battle Trivia for Kids by Brette Sember
June 2021, $15.95
Action-packed trivia all about the largest and most infamous battles of WWII—perfect for middle-grade readers and history lovers!