Summer Reads Your Kids Can’t Resist

The days are getting longer and the temperatures are rising. A sure sign that school will soon be out and summer vacation will officially begin. Like most mothers I look forward to this three month break with a combination of anticipation and dread. I love to have the kids home and available to share fun experiences and activities, but the extra house work and the constant whine of “I’m bored, there’s nothing to do,” could drive an angel to tears.

So during the summer I encourage my children to read as much as possible. It keeps their little minds active and learning and their bodies out of the kitchen and away from the TV. We are fortunate that some of the finest writers for youth are also LDS and produce books that are exciting, amusing and support the values we work so hard to teach our children.

Below are two of my favorite kid’s books. Remember, if you follow the links and order through LDSBookcorner.com, you’ll get the best prices around for new and used books and help LDSbookcorner continue to provide the free Daily Chapters and links to other free products by LDS artists.

My Fair Godmother by Janette Rallison

Janette Rallison is a national best seller and the writer of some of the funniest and most imaginative books for girls on the planet. My Fair Godmother tells the story of a young teenager named Savannah who’s had a horrible year. Her boy friend dumps her for her older sister just before prom, the top of her bathing suit comes loose accidentally during a class swimming party in front of everyone, and now her sister and ex-boy friend are trying to set her up with Tristan, some guy from school she barely knows.

When Chrissy her fairy Godmother steps in, it seems like an answer to Savannah’s prayers. But it seems that Chrissy is only fair at her job. The fair godmother quickly turns Savannah’s life upside down.

Savannah finds herself in the Middle Ages living as Cinderella and then Snow White. But things get even worse when Chrissy sends Tristan off to fight the black knight and become a prince. Can Savannah save Tristan, and get them both home safely. And despite Chrissy’s help, will Savannah manage to have a date for Prom.

This book is delightful, and funny and romantic and sure to please any girl from ten to (well let’s just keep my age out of it shall we?)

Adventurers Wanted, Book 1: Slathbog's Gold by M L Forman

Slathborg’s Gold is the first in a series of Adventurers Wanted books. This is Forman’s first novel, but not his first published fantasy story. In an interview with Fear Knocks, Forman described his books as follows:

“Slathbog's Gold is a story about fifteen-year-old Alexander Taylor. Like a lot of teenagers, he's not happy with his life, but unlike others, he gets a chance to change it. Alex finds himself on a great quest, a quest to kill the evil Dragon, Slathbog the Red, and claim his horde. Of course, making his way to the dragon includes a lot of adventure as well. Alex will run into a three-legged troll, bandits, an oracle, and a lot of other people as he travels. He will learn about true friendship, honor, and that some things are worth risking everything you have for, even your life.” (http://fearknocks.com/Oct08/Mark.html)

I liked Slathbog’s Gold because its approach was fresh and engaging. Alexander is a reluctant hero who isn’t sure he believes in magic or himself. Yet despite his misgivings and insecurities he finds that he has strengths and abilities he never dreamed he possessed.

This was a fun read, with great characters and a fast moving plot. It’s aimed at preteens who love fantasy. I found it great as a before-bed book for my son and I to share.

Check back in a few days for more summer reading recommendations. Or add a comment and recommend some of your own. Just don’t forget to check out LDSbookcorner.com for when purchasing your next book.