Pat’s Picks: Summer Reading List 2023 |
 | 1. Salty Dog – Gloria Rand A beautiful summertime read, Salty Dog features stunning watercolor illustrations and tells the story of boat builder Zack, who takes the ferry to work every day accompanied by his young pup Salty, until the dog gets too big to hang around the shop. Salty enjoys the daily voyage too much to be left behind, taking the ferry by himself to join Zack. |
 | 2. Sal Boat – Thyra Heder This special story was written and illustrated by the very talented Thyra Heder, who incorporates the beautiful backdrop of Gloucester, Massachusetts. Sal has a vision for the boat of his dreams and is determined to build it on his own. It’s an inspiring picture book with lovely, detailed illustrations and a heartfelt message about not giving up, being resourceful, and appreciating community. |
 | 3. Swimmy – Leo Lionni Swimmy is the story of a very small fish who stands out because he is a different color from the rest of his school. He is curious and adventurous, exploring the sea after being forced away from his home. When he meets a new school that fears being attacked by a predator, Swimmy saves the day by being the leader they need. This classic book was a recipient of a 1964 Caldecott Honor for its illustrations. |
 | 4. Hot Dog – Dough Salati Hot Dog captures a much-needed summer excursion that readers will enjoy taking. A small red dachshund in the city is wilting in the hot sticky summer, so his owner attempts to get him the breath of fresh air he needs. Salati shows us how to find calm and carry it back with us so we can appreciate the small joys in a day. Nearly wordless, the beginning reader can enjoy Hot Dog entirely on their own. |
 | 5. Good Night Little Bookstore – Amy Cherrix With engaging simplicity, Cherrix combines the intimate world of an independent bookstore with the rhythmic verse of a bedtime read. This book celebrates the bookstore as a cozy, comfortable—and crucial—corner of community. Cherrix should know; in addition to being a best-selling author, she has the amazing job of book buyer at an independent bookstore! |
 | 6. Once Upon a Book – Grace Lin Two-time Caldicott medalist Grace Lin invites the young reader to “turn the page and come in to a new and exciting place inside the book.” Main character Alice is an imaginative young girl who is drawn into the pages of the book and experiences a different world each and every time. Alice visits places new and exciting, but in the end, finds that home is always best. |
 | 7. Knight Owl – Christopher Denise A determined Owl builds strength and confidence in this medieval picture book about the real mettle of a hero: wits, humor, and heart. While holding guard during Knight Night Watch, Owl is faced with the ultimate trial—a frightening intruder. It's a daunting duel by any measure. But what Owl lacks in size, he makes up for in good ideas. |
 | 8. I’m Not Scared, You’re Scared – Seth Myers Emmy Award-winning writer Seth Myers gives us a funny, touching, brightly illustrated story about friendship and facing fears. Bear's fear of just about everything doesn't bother the more adventurous Rabbit, which is a good reminder to readers that friendships can be strengthened by differences as well as things friends have in common. |
 | 9. The Sour Grape – Jory John and Pete Oswald Jory John and Pete Oswald serve up another heaping plate of laughs and lessons with this empowering, witty, and charming addition to their #1 New York Times bestselling series. A thin-skinned grape learns that holding a grudge is not as much fun as letting one go. Telling story and lesson about being kind, grateful and humble. |
 | 10. The Seagull and the Sea Captain – Sy Montgomery The Seagull and the Sea Captain is the delightfully true story of Capt. Heath Ellis’s friendship with Polly Five Toes, a three-toed seagull who regularly visits Ellis’s schooner, the Thomas E. Lannon. Montgomery, a wonderful naturalistic storyteller, lovingly depicts her love of animals and nature in this Gloucester Massachusetts-based book. |
All of First R’s recommendations can be found at The Bookstore of Gloucester. If you haven’t already visited this charming bookstore in the historic west end of downtown Gloucester Massachusetts, drop by today for a visit.
Written By Maureen Ryan Thorpe
Written By Maureen Ryan Thorpe
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