‘Dying to Ask’ podcast: 2025 Best new kids books for summer

Stop the summer brain drain by getting your kids hooked on reading this summer. This is part two of the 10th annual KCRA summer beach reads series. Last week, we took a look at the best summer beach reads for adults with Tina Ferguson, owner of “Face in a Book” bookstore. This week, we’re focusing on books for kids of all ages. Tina says the key to getting a kid to put a screen down is to offer a book that’s more compelling than any video. And there are lots to choose from. Have a reluctant reader? Tina says it’s helpful to let your child drive the book bus. Let them pick out what interest them. Graphic novels continue to be a huge trend for kids who aren’t naturally drawn to reading. Her favorite this year is a book called “The Cartoonists Club.””I chose this one because graphic novels are great for reluctant readers. A lot of parents might think graphical novels aren’t what they would choose for their child. But graphic novels actually have great vocabulary,” Tina says. Titles mentioned:”The Secret Letters,” Margaret Peterson Haddox”Rebellion 1776,” by Laurie Halse Anderson”The Cartoonists Club,” by Raina Telgemeier & Scott McCloud”El Nino,” by Pam Munoz Ryan”A Wolf Called Fire,” by Rosanne Parry “Sharks Unhooked,” by Patricia NewmanOther places to listenCLICK HERE to listen on iTunesCLICK HERE to listen on StitcherCLICK HERE to listen on SpotifySee more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel