July Family Reading Guide
Welcome to the July Family Reading Guide!
It’s almost July, and if your house is anything like mine, that means wet towels on the floor, sunscreen in someone’s eye, and kids who suddenly think popsicles count as a food group. Yup, summer is in full swing!
All jokes aside, whether you’re heading out on a trip or just trying to survive the heat at home, July is a great time to freshen up your family’s book stack. I’ve compiled a new list of wholesome books for every age: board books, picture books, early readers, chapter books, middle-grade reads, and a few for moms, too.
Before we get to the list, here are a few fun July facts you can share with your kids:
Fun Facts About July:
- 🎆 Independence Day is July 4th! I’ve included a few patriotic picks that are perfect for reading around the holiday.
- 🐸 National Picnic Month – If you do outdoor lunches or blanket reading like we do for our weekly Picture Book Picnic, this is your month.
- 🍦 National Ice Cream Day falls on the third Sunday in July. Might be a good excuse to eat dessert and read about it too.
- 🎂 Famous author birthdays this month include Beatrix Potter (Peter Rabbit), E.B. White (Charlotte’s Web), and Patricia Polacco (Thunder Cake).
- 🌻 July’s flower is the larkspur, and the birthstone is ruby – just a fun little extra for your trivia-loving kids.
Let’s jump into the books!
JULY BOARD BOOKS
Board books are ideal for the youngest readers who are just beginning to explore the world through books. These sweet, sturdy stories are filled with rhythm, gentle repetition, and familiar animals and characters that little ones adore. Whether it’s new release like What Are Feelings For? or a bedtime favorite like The Going To Bed Book, these books are sure to bring smiles and build early reading memories you’ll treasure.
JULY PICTURE BOOKS
For most families, July feels like peak summer. Hot days, cold snacks, and just enough routine to keep things steady. My boys head back to school in July (year-round schedule over here!), so we’re squeezing in all the summer fun we can while also easing back into early mornings and packed lunches. Whether you’re still on full summer break or starting to think about back-to-school, this month’s picture book picks offer a mix of sweet summer stories, gentle transitions, and a few just-for-fun favorites.
-
America the Beautiful
-
Bartali’s Bicycle
-
Blue Sky, White Stars
-
Blueberries for Sal
-
Bunny Overboard
-
Catch My Breath
-
Daring Dozen: The Twelve Who Walked on the Moon
-
Down to the Sea with Mr. Magee
-
Flotsam
-
Home in the Woods
-
Honey… Honey… Lion!
-
Hot Dog
-
Jabari Jumps
-
Joseph and the Very Strange Dreams
-
Let Liberty Rise!
-
Our Flag Was Still There: The True Story of Mary Pickersgill and the Star-Spangled Banner
-
Out of the Woods
-
Perfect
-
Pie is for Sharing
-
Should I Share My Ice Cream?
-
Snatchabook
-
Summer Walk
-
Summertime in the Big Woods
-
The Bee Tree
-
The House in the Night
-
The Man in the Tree and the Brand New Start
-
The Night Gardener
-
The Raft
-
The Snail and the Whale
-
The Summer Visitors
-
The Wall in the Middle of the Book
-
When I Was Young in the Mountains
-
When Lightning Comes in a Jar
If you’re looking for picture books to help celebrate the Fourth of July, you’ll find a few tucked into this month’s list, like Let Liberty Rise! and Blue Sky White Stars. You can also browse the full Independence Day Picture Book List for even more patriotic reads to share as a family.
Want a closer look at some of these books?
Follow me on Instagram, where I share photos and flip-throughs of many books that are featured on my lists.
JULY EARLY READERS & FIRST CHAPTER BOOKS (ages 5-7)
It’s such a sweet stage when kids start picking up books on their own and feeling that early sense of reading independence. These early readers and first chapter books are gentle, engaging, and full of wholesome stories that help build confidence while still offering a satisfying story. Whether your child is sounding out every word or zipping through pages, there’s something here to support and encourage them as they grow.
-
A Big Guy Took My Ball!
-
Annie and Snowball and the Surprise Day: Ready-to-Read Level 2
-
Fish and Wave
-
Henry And Mudge in the Green Time: Ready-To-Read Level 2
-
King & Kayla and the Case of the Found Fred
-
Mr. Putter and Tabby Clear the Decks (I Can Read Level 3)
-
Mr. Putter and Tabby Drop the Ball (I Can Read Level 3)
-
Mr. Putter and Tabby Spill the Beans (I Can Read Level 3)
-
Orris and Timble: Lost and Found
-
Poppleton Every Day
-
Poppleton in Summer
-
Should I Share My Ice Cream?
-
The Miniature World of Marvin and James
-
The Scoop on Ice Cream! (Ready to Read Level 3)
-
Watch Me Throw the Ball!
JULY CHAPTER BOOKS (ages 6-9)
At this age, kids often love diving into series that keep the adventures going! Each month, I’ll highlight a few chapter book series to explore and enjoy. Here are some great options to hand to your young readers any time of the year!
- A to Z Mysteries Series by Ron Roy
With short chapters, clever clues, and kid detectives solving everyday mysteries, the A to Z Mysteries series is a go-to for young readers who love a little suspense. Each book follows Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose as they crack a new case, one for every letter of the alphabet. It’s a great next step after early readers, especially for kids who are curious, observant, and eager to follow a story across several chapters.
Note: I have personally read only a few books in this series, so I cannot vouch for the entire series.
- Encyclopedia Brown Series by Donald J. Sobol
Encyclopedia Brown is a classic series featuring Leroy “Encyclopedia” Brown, a boy detective with a knack for noticing the smallest details. Each book includes several short cases that readers can try to solve before flipping to the back for the solution. It’s a fun, interactive option for kids who enjoy puzzles, logic, and thinking things through. And perfect for readers who like to be part of the mystery-solving themselves!
- The Oregon Trail by Jesse Wiley
This interactive series places readers right in the middle of a westward journey, with choices that lead to very different outcomes (some successful, some less so). The Oregon Trail books combine historical facts with fast-paced decision-making, making them perfect for kids who enjoy adventure, survival stories, and having some control over how the story unfolds. A great fit for readers who enjoy action and are willing to take a few risks along the way.
Note: I have personally read only a few books in this series, so I cannot vouch for the entire series.
- The Happy Hollisters by Jerry West
This classic family mystery series follows the five Hollister kids as they solve a variety of small-town mysteries, accompanied by plenty of good-natured fun along the way. Originally published in the 1950s, The Happy Hollisters has an old-fashioned charm and wholesome feel that still appeals to young readers today. With short chapters, lots of teamwork, and simple mysteries, this series is great for kids who enjoy gentle adventures and family-centered stories.
These also work well as family read-alouds!
JULY MIDDLE GRADE BOOKS (ages 8-12)
- Molly Saves the Day by Valerie Tripp
- Samantha Saves the Day by Valerie Tripp
The American Girl Books were some of my most beloved books growing up, and I still have such a soft spot for them. Each series introduces a girl from a different time in American history, bringing the past to life through their stories, struggles, and triumphs.
I love how these books weave real historical events and cultural details into engaging, character-driven stories. They offer young readers a window into the lives of girls who are brave, curious, and kind, while also being very relatable. Each character offers something unique and memorable.
I truly hope the next generation of girls discovers these stories and enjoys them just as much as I did. They sparked my lifelong love of historical fiction.
*Note: the older books are out of print, so look for them used.
- The Found Boys by S.D. Smith
The Found Boys is a powerful and timely tale that tackles racism, forgiveness, and friendship through a story set in 1980s West Virginia. While the gospel message is clear and the themes are deeply meaningful, I chose to read it myself before handing it to my kids. It’s better suited for older tweens and independent reading (ages 10-13). I especially appreciated the way it portrays Christian faith as something lived, not just spoken.
*Note: The Found Boys has a few Content Considerations
For a full review and peek inside the book, check out my Instagram post.
- The Puppets of Spelhorst by Kate DiCamillo
The Norendy Tales trilogy is a great option for upper elementary readers. The chapters are short, the illustrations add whimsy, and Kate DiCamillo’s storytelling strikes a thoughtful tone. It’s clean fantasy with a quiet mystery, perfect for kids who enjoy fairy-tale vibes without feeling overwhelmed. They also make great read-alouds!
- Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson
Treasure Island is an adventure classic that remains timeless. Pirates, treasure maps, danger, and unexpected twists make it a great pick for older kids who are ready for a more complex story, especially during the summer months. It’s a bit dense in parts, but worth sticking with, especially if your kids love a good high-seas adventure.
*Note: Treasure Island has a few Content Considerations
JULY FAMILY READ-ALOUDS
- Heartwood Hotel: Home Again by Kallie George
This series is a lovely starting point for family read-alouds, especially with younger kids. The gentle woodland setting, kind-hearted characters, and just the right amount of adventure keep little listeners engaged without being overwhelming. Each book can stand on its own, but you may find your family reaching for the next one once you’ve started. Each book is linked to a specific season, allowing you to read them throughout the year.
- Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder
I loved this series as a kid and couldn’t wait to share it with my boys. They didn’t connect with it quite as much as I did, but they still enjoyed it, especially the prairie adventures and stories of survival. This one is a slower, richer read, but it offers a vivid glimpse into frontier life. I also appreciated the chance to discuss difficult topics, such as the portrayal of Native Americans and the challenges of homesteading. It’s a classic worth revisiting as a family.
- Strawberry Girl by Lois Lenski
This is not your typical feel-good historical fiction. It’s gritty and honest about rural life in early 1900s Florida. We had some good conversations about family, hard work, and forgiveness. If you’re looking for a read-aloud that opens the door to deeper discussion, this one’s worth exploring.
- A Bear Called Paddington by Roald Dahl
One of my boys’ all-time favorite read-alouds. They love re-listening to it on their Yoto players! It is packed with Roald Dahl’s signature mix of silly language, larger-than-life characters, and whimsy.
Funny, clever, and full of made-up words (snozzcumber, anyone?), The BFG makes for a magical read or listen that captures the imagination and keeps kids giggling.
*Note: The BFG has a few content considerations
- The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
I read this one as a child and still love the way it quietly unfolds. It’s slower-paced at first, but the transformation of the characters (and the garden) is so rewarding. My boys weren’t immediately drawn in, but once we got going, they grew to care about the story. If you’re looking for a read-aloud with depth, beauty, and character growth, this one’s a classic for a reason.
JULY BOOKS FOR MOM (or any adult)
- The Incredible Winston Browne by Sean Dietrich
This was my first book by Sean Dietrich, and I absolutely loved it. The small-town setting, lovable characters, and blend of heart and humor completely pulled me in. I laughed out loud at the southern expressions and teared up at the ending. It’s nostalgic, warm, and quietly powerful with short chapters, a touch of mystery, and themes of friendship, legacy, and loving people well. A beautiful read.
- The Pursuit of God by A.W. Tozer
This is one of those rare books that feels just as convicting on the tenth read as it did on the first. Tozer writes with such urgency and reverence that it’s impossible to stay spiritually complacent. I always return to this little book when I need to re-focus on what it truly means to know and love God. It’s rich, convicting, and deeply personal, written by a man who clearly walked closely with the Lord.
- To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
I still remember the first time I read this as a teenager, and it also deeply struck me again when I revisited it as an adult. The writing is beautiful, the characters unforgettable, and the themes timeless. Through Scout’s eyes, we see both the innocence of childhood and the complex realities of injustice and prejudice. It’s a powerful, layered story that challenges and changes you. One every mom (and teen) should read at least once.
I hope you found some good ideas to enjoy this month. I’d love for you to leave a comment with what you’re reading or if you have a favorite I should check out. Thanks for being here!
Until next time,
Happy reading!
