5 Picture Books for Long Summer Days
New, celebrated picture books and books for early readers, perfect for the summer and hand-picked for reading together or reading alone.
21 June, 2026 ● Written by Clara O’Neill
Illustration by Bonsoir Lune from The Watermelon Pool
School's out! Which means it’s time to read something amazing. This summer, we've rounded up the best new 2026 releases across picture books, middle grade, and YA. This week we start with picture books and books for early solo readers. Every title is fresh off the press from award-winning and beloved authors, spanning every genre from laugh-out-loud funny to gentle and wondrous. Whether your reader is just starting out or can devour a book in an afternoon, there's something on this list just for them.
Goldfinches
By Mary Oliver, illustrated by Melissa Sweet
Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Mary Oliver's work comes to children for the very first time, illustrated by Caldecott Honoree Melissa Sweet. Oliver's lyrical poem joyfully celebrates the relationship between goldfinches and thistles, filling readers with wonder for the natural world. Presented in a stunning nature journal format with watercolor, gouache, and mixed-media collage. Five starred reviews.
Ages 4-8
The Watermelon Pool
By Bonsoir Lune, translated by Frances Cha
A Korean bestselling picture book now available in English for the first time. When a giant watermelon gets split open on a hot summer day, everyone in the village dives in, making slides from the rind, diving off the stem, and sculpting watermelon sandcastles until nightfall. Joyful, inventive, and perfect for summer. Multiple starred reviews.
Ages 4-8
I'm So Happy You're Here: A Celebration of Library Joy
By Mychal Threets, illustrated by Lorraine Nam
From the beloved viral librarian and TikTok sensation Mychal Threets comes a warm, beautifully illustrated love letter to libraries — welcoming every young reader to explore, discover, and belong.
Ages 3-7
The Art of How Dogs Sleep
By Alison Kim
A gentle, calming picture book celebrating all the cozy, funny ways dogs snooze. Perfect for winding down at the end of a summer day, and maybe drifting off to sleep yourself.
Ages 0-5
This Was Not the Plan
By Jane Chapman
When plans go hilariously sideways, this funny picture book reminds little ones that the best adventures are often the ones you didn't expect. Great for young readers who love surprises and silliness.
Ages 3-7
Clara O’Neill
Contributor
Clara O’Neill is a student from Texas and a lifelong book lover. Alongside pursuing her degree, she supports nonprofits like STORYVOR that advocate for children and young adults in their educational journeys. Her love for reading began early with the Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne and has continued to grow ever since. As a homeschooler, her mom nurtured that passion and showed her how books can open doors to faraway and magical places. Reading has been a constant in her life, and she is passionate about helping others discover stories that inspire, comfort, and expand their world.
