As spring turns into summer, what better time to plant the seeds of imagination, learning, and adventure in your child’s life than with a fresh stack of books? Sourcebooks is back with another round of vibrant, clever, and inspiring new releases for May and June—perfect for beach bags, bedtime, and backyard reading under the stars.
Whether your child is just beginning their reading journey or diving into deeper topics, this list has something wonderful to expand their world, boost their confidence, and (fingers crossed) get them to put down the tablet.
Let’s take a look!
May Books: Big Adventures for Growing Minds
Phonics Makes Readers: Learn to Read!
By Laurin Brainard | Ages 3–6
Reading scores may be slipping nationally, but this joyful, skill-building box set is here to help! With 15 decodable books, this collection gives kids the phonics foundation they need to thrive. It’s bright, motivating, and perfect for preschoolers and kindergartners learning to read with confidence. Available on Amazon.
My First Book of Hiking
By Stephanie & Jeremy Puglisi, illustrated by Ekaterina Trukhan | Ages 0–4
Get those little legs moving! This board book, complete with a built-in handle, encourages toddlers to explore the great outdoors, one trail at a time. From lacing boots to spotting wildlife, it’s a hike-sized adventure made for curious minds. Available on Amazon.
My First Book of Camping
Also, by the Puglisis and Trukhan | Ages 0–4
Introduce your youngest explorers to the joys of s’mores, tents, and nature walks. Whether they’re dreaming of their first night in a sleeping bag or reliving a family trip, this cozy, colorful book makes the outdoors feel like home. Available on Amazon.
Digging for Dinosaurs
By June Smalls, illustrated by Grace Habib | Ages 0–4
Mini paleontologists will love peeking under flaps to find fossils and dino bones hidden beneath the earth in this interactive board book. Available on Amazon.
Digging for Dinosaurs: At the Beach
Also, by Smalls and Habib | Ages 0–4
Sun, sand, and Stegosauruses? Yes, please! This beachside edition of the dig-and-discover board book brings prehistoric surprises to your next seaside story time. Available on Amazon.
Don’t Disturb the Pirate
By Rhiannon Findlay, illustrated by Siân Roberts | Ages 3–6
What starts as a puppy hunt turns into a swashbuckling, giggle-filled adventure—just beware of waking the pirate! With clever wordplay and energetic illustrations, this one’s sure to be a read-aloud favorite. Available on Amazon.
Fearless Firsts: Artists Who Changed Entertainment
By James Buckley Jr. & Ellen Labrecque, illustrated by Steffi Walthall | Ages 8–14
Meet groundbreaking actors, musicians, and performers who paved the way in the entertainment world. Full of passion, perseverance, and dazzling achievements, this empowering collection shows that creativity knows no limits. Available on Amazon.
LGBTQ+ Heroes: 51 Inspiring Icons Who Changed the World
By L.V. Heston, illustrated by Helder Oliveira | Ages 8–12
These biographies celebrate bold individuals who have shaped our world with courage, talent, and vision. From athletes to activists, their stories inspire kids to be proud of who they are and who they can become. Available on Amazon.
The Changelings
By Christina Soontornvat | Ages 10–14
When Izzy’s little sister disappears into the forest, she must team up with a group of magical misfits to get her back. Full of danger, heart, and fae magic, this middle grade fantasy adventure explores the bonds of sisterhood and the power of found family. Available on Amazon.
June Books: Summer Reading with Heart, Humor, and Big Ideas
Wait ‘Til You’re Older
By Marian Marianayagam, illustrated by Irina Avgustinovich | Ages 4–8
Tired of hearing “Not yet”? So is Reha—so she builds a time machine to skip ahead! But growing up too fast isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. A charming, whimsical tale with a wise message about enjoying the moment. Available on Amazon.
I Send You a Hug
By Anne Booth, illustrated by Åsa Gilland | Ages 3–6
When you can’t be together in person, love still travels far. This gentle story explores the comforting power of connection—even from a distance. Available on Amazon.
Down Syndrome Out Loud: 20+ True Stories of Disability and Determination
By Melissa Hart, illustrated by María Perera | Ages 8–14
Meet more than twenty inspiring individuals with Down syndrome who are thriving in everything from film to photography. This beautifully illustrated collection is bursting with joy, resilience, and pride. Available on Amazon.
What Fish Are Saying: Strange Sounds in the Ocean
By Kirsten Pendreigh, illustrated by Katie Melrose | Ages 4–8
Yes, fish talk! With crackles, burps, and boops, this delightful nonfiction book dives into the noisy world of ocean communication—perfect for curious kids and budding marine biologists. Available on Amazon.
How the U.S. Government Works: A Kid’s Guide to Civics
By Syl Sobel J.D. | Ages 7–10
It’s never too early to understand how democracy works. This clear, kid-friendly guide helps young readers grasp the basics of American government—and why their voice matters. Available on Amazon.
Let’s Go Camping: A Journal and Logbook for Kids
By Stephanie & Jeremy Puglisi, illustrated by Daniel and Anna Clark | Ages 7–10
Let your kids document their outdoor escapades! Packed with prompts, fun activities, and room to log 10 trips, this camping journal is a must-have for summertime memory-making. Available on Amazon.
Social Skills to Be a Great Friend
By JoAnn Crohn, illustrated by Louie Chin | Ages 8–12
Friendship is a skill—and this workbook makes it fun to learn. Through engaging activities and practical tips, kids will build confidence and learn how to make (and keep!) great friends. Available on Amazon.
Final Thoughts
This May and June, give your little readers something to look forward to—whether it’s exploring nature, meeting heroes, or blasting off in a time machine. These Sourcebooks titles are ready to entertain, educate, and inspire… and maybe even make reading their favorite summer activity.
So which one are you checking out first? Happy Reading!
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