Photograph courtesy of Megan McQueen
Since 2020, Megan McQueen has served as the children's librarian at the Trussville Public Library. “Our library offers the community an annual summer reading challenge designed to develop and encourage the habit of reading for enjoyment among all ages,” she says. “Additionally, it can help students maintain their reading levels during the summer break. Participants in the challenge can win prizes all summer by reaching their age groups’ reading goal set by the library.”
Megan graciously agreed to share five of her favorite children’s books, below, perfect for summer—and any time—reading. Of course, she is a book lover herself: “My favorite way to consume literature is with audiobooks during long walks and commutes,” she says.
To participate in summer reading at the Trussville library, visit trussvillelibrary.beanstack.org. “The library will also offer more than 75 free programs for all ages this summer,” says Megan. “Our summer theme is Adventure Begins at Your Library. We believe each book in our library holds a special adventure for readers.”
Paletero Man by Lucky Diaz – What’s better than a frozen treat on a hot summer day? Follow a young boy through his vibrant neighborhood as he searches for his favorite paleta flavor from Paletero José in this bilingual picture book.
Hot Dog by Doug Salati – A little dog feels overwhelmed by the city. It’s too hot, too loud, and too much! But his owner knows just what they need to cool down on a summer day. The book’s illustrations take the reader on a palpable journey from the hot, bustling city to the breezy, spacious seaside.
Mama’s Library Summers by Melvina Noel – Take a trip back to summers in the 1960s, as two sisters pick out their weekly library books with one stipulation from their mother: Their books must be about Black people. Back at home, the family reads and shares together about the rich Black history found in their pages. A beautiful picture of what family literacy could look like in homes today.
Cornbread & Poppy for the Win by Matthew Cordell – Two odd-couple friends compete in the yearly Small Rodents Competitive Cycling Championship Classic (SRCCCC). One is determined to win, while the other just wants to have fun. Will they have what it takes to make it to the finish line together? This early chapter book is a fun tale of friendship and good sportsmanship.
Leafy Landmarks: Travels with Trees by Michelle Schaub – Travel the USA this summer without leaving the comforts of home. This nonfiction book takes readers on a road trip to visit famous and unique trees around the country. Each stop includes a poem and information about the significance of the tree.
