The sun has finally got his hat on, and we’ve been thinking about our reading plans for the summer! Here are a few of our picks for what to read over the next few months.

 You Are Awesome: Find Your Confidence and Dare to be Brilliant at (Almost) Anything by Matthew Syed (7+)

This practical book aims to empower children to find their confidence and believe in their own potential, teaching them that if you think you can do something you’re probably right. Perfect for the summer months, readers will spend the holidays trying new things and have a new determination when it comes to starting school again in September.

How to Bee by Bren MacDibble (9+)

Eight-year-old Peony wants to be a Bee more than anything. In her world, the bees have died out so it’s down to the most nimble and speedy people to pollinate the trees on the farm where she lives. Her mum wants to move the family to the city, but Peony is determined to stay on the farm and fulfil her dreams.  It’ll inspire children to help the real bees, and make them consider what could happen if we don’t.

Here Comes Hercules! by Stella Tarakson (6+)

When Tim accidentally releases a Greek hero from his mum’s favourite vase, he can’t imagine the antics it’ll lead to at home and in school. Out in time to enjoy over the summer holidays, this funny, engaging book will keep you laughing whether you’re reading it in Athens or Aberdeen.  It’s been listed as one of the top 100 children’s books of 2018, and certainly won’t disappoint!

 The House with Chicken Legs by Sophie Anderson (9+)

Marinka’s house sometimes stands up and walks to a new place during the night. She just wants to wake up in the same place in the morning and have a normal life, but that doesn’t seem like it’s going to happen. Based on Slavic fairy tales, older readers will enjoy this story of a girl trying to shape her own destiny.

 Wonder by R.J. Palacio (9+)

This isn’t quite as new as the other books on our list, but with the film release a few months ago Wonder is back in the charts and certainly worth reading if you haven’t already. Auggie has a facial deformity that leaves him isolated and being home schooled hasn’t helped. Now he’s about to start at a real school and just wants to be accepted for who he is. The story will stay with you, and we bet you choose kindness more often as a result.

 Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi (YA)

The first book in a new YA fantasy trilogy set in West Africa. The series is set to be a classic, dealing with themes of magic, prejudice and family before leaving you on tenterhooks. It’s already in development as a film series – could this be the next Harry Potter?

 All of these books are available from Waterstones, Foyles, Amazon and all good independent bookshops.