Let’s Read With Gleam’s Top 10 Summer Reads

July 11, 2019 10:21 AM
by Rachel Foyt

“Let’s Read with Gleam” is a free monthly reading series for children and families that brings attention to the importance of literacy and gets kids excited about learning. From books about celebrating your unique self by Dr. Seuss, to being a responsible citizen, to the library’s summer reading theme, “A Universe of Stories”, here are Mayor Gleam Davis’ top recommendations. You can find all these titles and more at your Santa Monica Public Library!

  1. Chicken in Space by Adam Lehrhaupt, illustrated by Shahar Kober

An adventurous chicken and her pig friend travel to what they believe is outer space. A fun story full of imagination.

  1. Dinosaur Bob and his adventures with the family Lazardo by William Joyce

While vacationing in Africa, the Lazardo family finds and brings back to America a friendly dinosaur that becomes the talk of the town. A family favorite!

  1. Green Wilma, Frog in Space by Tedd Arnold (author of the beloved Fly Guy series)

Green Wilma the frog is mistaken for an alien child and taken on a trip through space. A simple story in rhyme.

  1. Happy Birthday to You! by Dr. Seuss

The Birthday Bird presides over a birthday celebration in Katroo. A classic!

  1. I Want to Be an Astronaut by Byron Baron

A simple story about a boy thinking what it might be like to be an astronaut. Perfect for our Summer Reading theme, “A Universe of Stories.”

  1. Meet the Mayor/Conoce a los alcaldes by Joyce Jeffries

Did you ever wonder what a Mayor does? Part of the People Around Town series for children. A bilingual book.

  1. Mousetronaut: based on a (partially) true story by Mark E. Kelly, illustrated by C.F. Payne

This picture book, written by an actual astronaut, tells the story of a small, but plucky mouse who helps the Space Shuttle astronauts save their mission. A perfect read to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the moon landing!

  1. Oh the Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss offers advice in rhyme for proceeding in life; weathering fear, loneliness, and confusion; and being in charge of your actions. A book for all ages.

  1. Pete the Cat: Out of this world by James Dean

Favorite children’s book character Pete the Cat heads off to space camp, gets to float in zero gravity, and even goes on an interstellar mission that is out of this world—literally. Houston, get ready to rock out with Pete the Cat!

  1. What Can a Citizen Do? By Dave Eggers with art by Shawn Harris

Rhyming text explores citizenship, showing readers how seemingly unrelated actions, such as planting a tree or joining a cause can create community. A great picture book to share with the whole family.

Authored By

Rachel Foyt
Senior Administrative Analyst