You know you just sang that line in your head.  At least those of us over the age of 30something should be familiar with that famous line from Alice Cooper's song.

Nonetheless, whether you are familiar or not, school is out or nearly out for most of the US.  And with a whole summer ahead, what better to post about than Summer Reading for kids of all ages.  I have an entire list of some of my family's favorite books and choices for reading this summer.

What I don't know is, what is on YOUR list?

Mom Loves 2 Read is making a Summer Reading List that will be posted and updated as followers and visitors comment below with suggestions of favorites, classics and new TBR books that are recommended for kids of all ages.


So, please start commenting below with the  Title and Author of the book, and what age range you feel it is best for.  I will add them to the list (see button on right side of blog)

At twenty years of age, Nathaniel Maxwell Adams Jr., better known as Nate, fulfills a prophecy he made eleven years prior by moving to Pine Haven. What he hadn't planned in his youth, though, was to become a pastor, especially since his parents adamantly oppose the idea. So, as he shepherds a flock in the growing Montana town, he feels called to another smaller yet no less significant mission field: his mother and father.

For years, orphan Hailee Annigan was just a ragamuffin, roaming the Cincinnati streets trying to keep food in the mouths of her two younger brothers and herself. This often meant thieving, which landed her in the Sanctuary of Hope, a home for delinquent youngsters. There, her life changed, thanks to her patient, loving teachers. Now, at eighteen, she pursues a dream to become a teacher herself and bravely accepts a position in Montana. She still has faith that she'll find her brothers again someday, but for now, she's ready to put the past behind her.

When their paths converge in Pine Haven, their lives begin to overlap in ways they can't ignore. And they must discover if God intends for their destinies to converge, as well.

(spoilers ahead. . . . )



I was  drawn to the main character Hailee from the beginning of the book.  Her story of love and sacrifice for her younger brothers endeared her to me right away.  I was captivated

Kids of all ages love to help Mom and Dad in the kitchen.  From stirring the cake batter to trying to crack eggs without dropping shell pieces in the mix, kids love to learn how to create fun foods.  To promote this love of cooking, having kid-friendly cookbooks with easy recipes is a great way to provide independence and creativity in the kitchen.  Here is one of my new favorite recipe books just for kids ~ ~ ~ written by kids!


The perfect book for children, this fun and engaging cookbook is written and photographed by a pair of young sisters for budding chefs.

Whether they're helping stir cake batter or producing their own YouTube cooking channel, kids of all ages are getting increasingly busy in the kitchen. This cookbook features twenty classic recipes that are fun, healthy, adaptable, and easy to prepare. From banana bread and the perfect grilled cheese to breaded chicken and apple pie, each recipe is written in a clear, accessible style that young cooks of every level will be able to follow. The author is a young chef whose love of

The Poetry of US  (ages 8-12, $24.99)   contains more than 200 poems, all showcasing the diverse people and places of of the United States. Curated by former U.S. Children’s Poet Laureate J Patrick Lewis, familiar verses and brand new voices accompany striking photographs as the reader embarks on a literary trip through all 50 states and the many cultures, traditions, histories and passions that define us.    

Poems are arranged by region, from coast to coast, and among them are works by Langston Hughes, Dorothy Parker, Robert Frost, Naomi Shihab Nye, Walt Whitman, and more. Reflecting the United States’ melting pot of people, the distinctive voices of immigrant and minority writers as well as poems in Spanish, Arabic, and Korean with accompanying translations into English are also featured.  

From the familiar to the surprising, subjects include people, places, landmarks, monuments, nature, and celebrations. Inspiring, thought-provoking and  particularly timely, this collection of poetry and photography eloquently reveals the spirit that unites US.      

Early praise for  The Poetry of US :

“...an expansive gathering, with dazzling visuals” - Kirkus

Review:
Celebrate the gift of language and the vibrant culture of the United States with this collection of classic and never-before-published poetry. Poems are arranged by region, from coast to coast,and are designed for family sharing, but geared to younger readers, this beautifully illustrated treasury is a must-have for the family bookshelf.

With three children ages 10 to 17, plus several nieces ranging from age 2 through 7; there is a lot of opportunity for reading and family enjoyment of books in my house.  Poetry is one of those subjects that I personally love but have trouble getting many of the kiddos to read or listen to.  The Poetry of US is a wonderful book that has easy to read and understand poetry that caters to kids (and adults) of all ages.  Even the 17 year old boy got involved reading to the younger girls.  I loved the cultural poems in the variety of languages that were translated into English.  

A book I recommend for any household!


Affiliate link for purchase:  AMAZON
 

 

Headed toward a fresh start but tethered by her past, Vivian longs to break free, to find forgiveness and love.

At last, the sisters are reunited! The youngest Sinclair, the family“ baby”, is moving from Maine to Cripple Creek, Colorado and joining Kat, Nell, and Ida. But Vivian is a young woman with a will of her own, and made some decisions back in Portland that have begun to haunt her. Will she be able to live up to the expectations of her three perfect and now happily-settled sisters?