Eleven Essential Summer Reads for Kids

The summer holidays are approaching and while we may not be able to guarantee blazing sunshine, one things for sure; schools out and the kids need entertaining! Whether you’re looking ahead to a long haul flight or are planning some quality time with your little ones, there’s no better time to get them reading than during the holidays. So let’s put the iPads away, turn off the TV and settle down to a summer of literary fun. Here at Fancy Kids, we’ve compiled a list of eleven books to get you started. From new releases to old classics, read on to discover our top picks

1. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child by J.K Rowling

Possibly the most hotly anticipated release in a decade, this July sees the release of J.K Rowling’s book Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, the eighth in the bestselling series. This is the first Potter story to be presented on stage and has caused a stir amongst kids and adults alike. No longer a teenage wizard at Hogwarts, Harry is now a husband, father of three and working at the Ministry of Magic. While details of the plot have been kept on lock down, what we do know is that the story will centre on Harry’s youngest son Albus and his challenge to live with his father’s legacy. Already a bestseller on pre-orders alone, July 31st looks set to be a momentous occasion.

2. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Double Down by Jeff Kinney

Get ready for the latest instalment in the blockbuster Diary of a Wimpy Kid saga, available to pre-order now. A light-hearted read for kids aged 8-14 years.

3. The BFG by Roald Dahl

A much loved classic by one of the world’s favourite children’s authors. No one knows a child’s imagination like Roald Dahl, who wrote The BFG in 1982 at the ripe age of 66. This delightful tale follows Sophie who is stolen from an orphanage by the BFG; (in case you didn’t already know, this stands for Big Friendly Giant). Expect adventures galore in this charming story about a giant who delivers dreams to children.

4. The World’s Worst Children by David Walliams

A hilarious collection of ten short stories about delightfully dreadful children; these witty tales will have your kids in stitches.

5. To Run by Michael Morpurgo

A must read for animal lovers, this heart-warming tale tells of a young greyhound and his many exciting adventures. A truly thought-provoking read, there will be tears, laughter and love with this page-turner of a book.

6. The Secrets of the Wild Wood by Tonke Dragt

The long awaited sequel to the bestselling book ‘Letter to the King’; this is everything you could want from a fantasy children’s book. Expect knights, enchanted kingdoms and plenty of adventure.

7. Big Picture Book of London by Rob Lloyd Jones

Teach your little one about England’s capital with the Big Picture Book of London. From Big Ben to Trafalgar Square, explore London’s most famous landmarks in this educational book complete with fold out pages and exquisite illustrations.

8. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain

First published in 1876, this literary classic is still a riveting read in 2016. This charming novel follows the life of a mischievous young boy growing up along the Mississippi River. While the language may be slightly dated, it’s focus on the central character will ring true with kids of all ages; an affectionate, light-hearted adventure.

9. Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

The original swashbuckling tale, Treasure Island is a must-read for kids who love adventure stories. Expect one-legged pirates, shoulder-perching parrots and treasure maps; a traditional pirate classic that will stir the imagination.

10. Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren

Masquerading as a light-hearted tale of a fiercely independent and eccentric little girl named Pippi, this collection of stories by Astrid Lindgren is full of frolics and fun, yet it’s moral message runs much deeper. This befreckled girl may be a little cheeky, but most importantly, she teaches children to embrace their individuality and believe in themselves.

11. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery

First published in 1943, The Little Prince is a fable about a pilot’s encounter with a young prince who travels across planets in search of knowledge. Exploring themes of childhood, imagination and the inevitability of growing up, it is often seen as a ‘children’s book for adults’. No matter how old you are, The Little Prince is a compassionate, heart-warming read.

Have we missed out any of your favourites? We’d love to hear what books you and your kids have been enjoying. Let us know your top reads for summer on our social media channels (Insert channels here)