“Not only does Start with a Book recommend excellent age-appropriate books, it makes it easy to make the crucial real life connections to those books that build the background knowledge and vocabulary kids need. I love how this useful tool has helped the parents and volunteers we work with to motivate kids and excite them about books and reading.”
Choose a topic to explore
Do you know any young detectives, artists, or inventors? Or children fascinated by dinosaurs, planes, bugs, birds, the night sky, or music? You'll find 24 topics to dive into for a summer full of learning!
Find great kids’ books
Reading with kids sparks curiosity and conversation. We’ve carefully matched each topic with a wide range of awesome fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and graphic novels to encourage more summer reading.
Keep the adventure going!
Browse our curated collection of topic-related activities, ideas for writing, educational apps, and websites for inquisitive kids — to build background knowledge and deepen summer learning.
Trailblazers: Remarkable men and women of color who shaped our world
Books and Activities
Bird Buddies: All about the amazing world of birds
Hands-on STEAM Learning
Tune In! A music adventure for kids
Books and Activities
Simple, fun ideas for a summer of reading and active learning!
Reading Tips for Parents
Watch & Learn: Reading Nonfiction with Kids
Great Read Alouds