To help destress this Summer, we’ve written down some book recommendations for your whole family. Books to read with children on the couch after dinner or before bedtime, and books for parents to skim on their way to work or late at night when the children are all asleep.
For Kids
"Tomorrow I’ll Be Brave"
by Jessica Hische
What a heartfelt and awe-inspiring book. Tomorrow I’ll Be Brave is a novel by Jessica Hische reminding us to use goals and how they help us. The book follows the narrator imagining what they’ll do tomorrow, and the many accomplishments they can make. She teaches you that even if you fail, then it’s okay as your parents are there for you, and she tried her best which is all that matters.
"Olivia"
by Ian Falconer
Have an amazing time with Olivia as he dresses up, cares for her brothers, and goes on many adventures. This classic book shows the significance and power in one’s imagination, while also teaching kids life lessons with Olivia’s charismatic attitude.
"The Rainbow Fish"
by Marcus Pfister
An international bestseller with eye-catching graphics and artwork that glitter on and off the pages. An instantaneous attraction for any kid whilst teaching them the importance of sharing. This gorgeous book with its heartfelt message will enthrall any reader who passes it.
"No More Naps"
by Chris Grabenstein
So completely irresistible. A situation that all parents face, when your bubbie just refuses to fall asleep. This book and its illustrations perfectly capture the expressions of a cranky baby. From their rigid body to their eyes and beyond. No More Naps is a wondrously captivating book that is not only funny, but crazy relatable.
"The Box Turtle"
by Vanessa Roeder
Get ready for a cuteness overload! This book revolves around a turtle named Terrance. Terrance is born without a shell, so his parents give him a cardboard box to use as a pseudo shell. Terrance loves his cardboard shell until another turtle makes fun of it, resulting in him going off in search of a new shell. During his journey to find a new shell, he learns the importance in loving yourself, embracing your weirdness, and forming lifelong friendships.
For Parents
"You Can’t F**k Up Your Kids: A judgement-free guide to stress-free parenting"
by Lindsay Powers
A reassuring novel about not measuring yourself up to other parents. Parents place extraordinary expectations upon themselves, where they feel the need to be perfect. This novel doesn’t focus on how to raise children the right way, but instead on how parents should relax. Lindsay Powers discusses everything from breastfeeding to daycare, and how that no matter what you do, you’re doing your best.
"Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom is Wrong – and What You Really Need to Know"
by Emily Oster
Emily Oster is an award-winning economist who refutes standard pregnancy recommendations. She presents the hard facts about pregnancy and advice that she finds more useful. Expectant mothers face many fears from what they cannot eat to what decisions are right for my baby. Oster, a mother herself, discusses what advice and information is the most helpful, recommendations that will help relieve stress and create a magical pregnancy experience.
"Parenting Beyond Pink & Blue: How to Raise Your Kids Free of Gender Stereotypes"
by Christina Spears Brown
The author Christina Brown is not only a psychologist, but also a mother of two. Her novel discusses how gender unnecessarily shapes children. A guide that will help parents focus on their family and children’s personal strengths to effectively bring out the best in themselves and their children. With recommendations, the science of genders, and practical advice, this novel will help you understand the limiting power of gender stereotypes.
"Diaper Dude: The Ultimate Dad’s Guide to Surviving The First Two Years"
by Chris Pegula
Author Chris Pegula dives deep into the first two years of parenting for dads, from explosive diapers to babyproofing and beyond. His funny takes on parenting and his ‘Everyman’ narrator, this book shows parents that they don’t have to lose themselves when becoming a parent.