All summer, I’ll be sharing books for kids of all ages on topics that interest them or offer something new to learn about. Most of the time, these will be nonfiction books, but sometimes we can learn from fictional stories too. I believe reading over the summer is so important, and keeping kids interested in reading by finding relevant books about topics that they are interested in is very important. Kids should read at least 20 minutes every day, and I hope that these books offer you ideas to keep your kids reading and learning all summer.
I hope you will stay tuned to these posts. They will always have Summer Read-to-Learn in the title and will be tagged in the post. There will be books on all kinds of topics kids love to read and learn about. Be sure to stop by each week to see what book I’m sharing as part of my Summer Read-to-Learn series.
To see all the books in the Summer Read-to-Learn series, click HERE.
These board books offer a fictional story combined with facts that teach little ones an important skill or how to solve everyday problems using science or math. STEAMWORKS board books are also available in Spanish bilingual. These playful stories and extension activities ignite excitement for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) and empower children as thinkers, problem solvers, and innovators.
MOON CHEF
By: Delia Ruiz
Illustrated by: Nomar Perez
Published: May 5, 2026
Publisher: Charlesbridge
Fiction
Gaby loves the moon and notices how its shape changes every day. The moon is round like her breakfast. Then, a few days later, the moon looks more like Gaby’s guava. Later in the month, Gaby and her mom enjoy empanadillas, shaped like the moon.
As Gaby travels through the moon’s phases, kids will learn about shapes, foods that are part of the Hispanic culture, and the various phases of the moon. The end of the book includes more information about the moon’s phases, along with some activities to do with your child, such as going on a shape hunt at the grocery store or watching the phases of the moon together as a family.
Delia Ruiz is a first-generation Latina author whose stories bloom from her rich Mexican heritage. When not crafting award-winning children’s books or curating diverse book lists, Delia finds joy in quiet moments of writing, long walks, and the simple pleasures of home. Her creative spirit thrives in Puerto Rico, where she lives with her husband, baby, and pug—a trio who inspire her storytelling journey daily. Represented by Sera Rivers at Speilburg Literary Agency, Delia weaves worlds with words while keeping her heart firmly anchored to the cultural tapestry that shapes her literary voice. Through her social platforms, she champions diverse literature and creates teacher resources that celebrate multicultural voices and experiences. She hopes to inspire the next generation of writers who also come from immigrant households. Check out her website, HERE.
Nomar Perez is an author-illustrator originally from the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. He is the winner of the Pura Belpre Honor for Author and Illustrator for his picture book Coquí in the City. After leaving his homeland at the age of ten, Nomar found himself in touch with all types of media, including animation, puppetry, and computer art. He studied computer animation and painting at Bowling Green State University in Ohio, and since then has worked as an illustrator and designer. Find out more about Nomar, HERE.
Download an ACTIVITY SHEET to go along with the story, HERE.
Click HERE to purchase a copy of MOON CHEF
MANNY MATCHES THE WEATHER
By: Jenny Lacika
Illustrated by: Antonieta Muñoz Estrada
Published: May 5, 2026
Publisher: Charlesbridge
Fiction
Manny is very independent and likes to choose his own outfits. He is very particular about his style and likes to match colors or choose something fun. Unfortunately, not all of Manny’s outfits are appropriate for that day’s weather. A jacket, jeans, and scarf might look great, but it’s way too hot for a sunny summer day.
Manny and his mami work together to come up with a plan so Manny can still choose his outfits for the day, but make sure they work for that day’s weather and activities. Manny can check the weather app on his mom’s phone or look out the window, but he still wasn’t choosing the right clothes for the day. Finally, Mami and Manny find a solution for Manny to wear what he likes and choose the right clothes for the weather.
The end of the book includes information about understanding temperature and activities such as going outside and exploring temperature both in the sun and in the shade.
Jenny Lacika grew up in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she learned to work together with her older and younger brothers. She graduated from MIT after she discovered how math could break down walls and open doors, and she never stopped loving books. She now lives in her hometown with her husband and two kids. Check out her website, HERE.
Antonieta Muñoz Estrada is a kidlit illustrator and digital artist from Mexico who loves bringing stories to life with a touch of color and humor. She has always been passionate about art, and her work is a reflection of her journey. She studied visual arts with a specialization in graphic design at the Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro. Over the years, she has had the wonderful opportunity to collaborate with several publishers, including Charlesbridge Publishing, Beaming Books, and Edelvives México. Antonieta believes that illustrations are more than just pictures—they are a way to connect with young readers and spark their imaginations. Above all, she hopes her illustrations bring joy to anyone who sees them and that her work inspires a love for reading in children everywhere. Check out her website, HERE.
Download ACTIVITY SHEETS to go along with the book, HERE
Click HERE to purchase a copy of MANNY MATCHES THE WEATHER
These Picasso Tiles are great STEAM Activities for toddlers
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Thanks to the publisher for sending these books for this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to purchase through the above links, I may make a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase.
Posted Under Antonieta Muñoz Estrada, Book Review, Children's books, Delia Ruiz, Hispanic, Jenny Lacika, Nomar Perez, STEM, Spanish, Summer Read-to-Learn, Weather, board book, fiction, science, space