by Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman
For kids, summertime is all about playing and having fun without a care in the world. During the school hiatus kids have the time to play make-believe games and enjoy nature, whether at camp or their own back yards. It’s also a great time for kids to enjoy a book, whether on their own or with a parents or caregiver. Here are a few great books for the summer that are all about summer camp adventures and creative pretend play and make-believe.
Faraway Friends by Russ Cox (ages 3-6)
Sheldon’s best friend moved far away (probably to Jupiter, he thinks). He decides to build a spaceship that will take him and his dog to outer space to see his friend. Though they never make it to Jupiter they do come across alien life and Sheldon makes a friend to share his adventures with him. This book will resonate with kids who love to get down and dirty and create things, like a makeshift tents or a playhouse. It really encourages playing make-believe as an activity in and of itself, which is crucial for child development. The story is very easy to follow and my almost-three-years-old really enjoys it. A slightly older child will understand it’s just “pretend” but will be fascinated with the creativity. You can purchase it here
for $12.91.
Sophie’s Animal Parade by Amy Dixon (ages 3-5)
Sophie is a little girl who likes to draw and by magic (or imagination, according to her mom) everything she draws comes to life! One day when she feels lonely she draws animals who come to life. When they take up too much space in her room they all go outside for a parade. This book is filled with cute, whimsical illustrations by Katia Wish and demonstrates how kids can keep themselves occupied by drawing and using their imagination to create anything they want. You can purchase it here
for $12.78.
Boys Camp: Zee’s Story by Kitson Jazynka and Valerie Tripp (ages 7-11)
This chapter book is part of the Boys Camp Series and is a great read for elementary school kids. Sleepaway camp is a very special time and an opportunity for kids to grow and mature. The story tells the tale of two friends at sleepaway camp – Will and Zee who are known pranksters. The book gives a taste of what sleepaway camp is really like but also has some drama – for example, when Zee’s kayak capsizes. There are also some nice descriptions of nature and the book comes with a cute kayaking card. The story is an easy read and can keep kids engrossed, with the help of engaging illustrations by Craig Orback, while helping them stay on track with summer reading requirements. You can purchase it here
I was not compensated for this post. I received samples.
————————————————————————————————————
Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is the owner of Mama’s Bites and has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in New York City for fourteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 8, 6 and 2) and loves finding great products that make her family’s life easier.
Leave a Reply