Summer Camp Fun 2025 Issue

SPRING 2025 ISSUE

BEST SUMMER EVER

SUMMER PAGE-TURNERS

IT’S OUR WORLD, EXPLORE IT!

The Ultimate Family Book Club!

Great Reads for All Ages

DISCOVER THE POWER OF FROST SCIENCE Where Camps Bring Science Education to Life While Building Memories that Last a Lifetime

LESS SCREEN TIME, MORE GREEN TIME The Battle for Your Child’s Attention and Encouraging More Outdoor Play

PHILLIP AND PATRICIA FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE 1101 BISCAYNE BLVD MIAMI, FL 33132

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FROSTSCIENCE.ORG

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PRE-CAMP FUN WEEK JUNE 9 - 13

SUMMER PROGRAMS JUNE 16 - AUGUST 1

AGES 3-12

www.AlexanderMontessori.com 305. 665. 6274

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From the

Inside this Issue SPRING 2025

Editor Elizabeth Rivas

On the Cover FROST SCIENCE The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a leading science museum dedicated to sharing the power of science, sparking wonder and investigation, and fueling innovation for the future. Frost Science is also dedicated to education, earning national awards for its summer camps and after-school programs.

Features

18 FAMILY BOOK CLUB The Ultimate Reading List for Every Reader in Your Family

Featured Camps INSIDE COVERS Alexander Camp KLA Academy 3

Cushman School

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Frost Science

South Florida is bursting with incredible summer programs designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning. We are so fortunate to have such a diverse range of programs that have evolved to offer personalized and individualized approaches to summer with strong focus on engaging young minds. From artistic expression to outdoor exploration and skills-specific instruction to STEM education—there is truly something for everyone.

On our cover, The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, is one of these dedicated institutions in South Florida. They inspire STEM learning and innovation through unforgettable adventure in science and discovery— bringing science to life through handson experiences.

We hope that this issue will guide you to right program to help your child explore passions, discover new interests, learn new skills, and create lifelong memories.

Here’s to a summer filled with adventure and self-discovery!

VOLUME 16

4 FROST SCIENCE

8 Palmetto Bay Academy

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Elizabeth Rivas

It’s Our World, Explore it!

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Riviera Day Camp

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Monica Pitts

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Gulliver Prep Summer

10 MORE GREEN TIME Encouraging More Outdoor Play

14 FEATURED CAMPS

Directory Summer Camps and Enrichment Programs

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13 Camp Kendall 17

Palmer Trinity School

17 St. Thomas Aquinas

CONTRIBUTORS Editorial Team Valeska Rodriguez R MEDIA PUBLISHING, INC. P.O. Box 881554, Port St. Lucie, FL 34988 (786)346-3048 yourstudentyourchoice.com Private Schools Guide of South Florida is published by R Media Publishing, Inc. (RPM) and is distributed free of charge throughout South Florida. All rights reserved. Copying any of the contents of these publication without the expressed permission of R Media Publishing, Inc., is prohibited.

ENROLL NOW

FOR SUMMER.

The Cushman School offers summer camp and academic programming for students in Pre-K through 12th grade.

CAD Sports Camp

Summer Fun Camp

Cougar Training Camp

Virtual Academics

On-Campus Summer Studies

Pre-K4-Grade 5 June 9th – July 18th

Ages 3-10 June 16th – July 25th

Grades 6-12 June 9th – July 18th

Grades 6-12 June 16th – August 8th

Grades 6-12 June 16th – July 3rd

Register today for a summer of learning, laughter and lifelong friendships at The Cushman School.

305-757-1966 CUSHMANSCHOOL.ORG

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ROM MARINE BIOLOGY AND ROBOTICS TO ASTRONOMY AND PALEONTOLOGY,

THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AT SUMMER CAMP AT THE PHILLIP AND PATRICIA FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE! This award-winning program at the museum’s campus in Downtown Miami provides a rich, hands-on experience that makes learning fun. Taking place from Monday, June 9 through Friday, August 8, Frost Science’s Summer Camp is designed to spark a sense of curiosity and excitement in children ages 5-15 through different week-long camps themed around the amazing science featured at the museum.

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Campers will launch into the outer reaches of our universe, dig into paleontology, try their hand at coding, and so much more during this unforgettable program.

They will also get to explore interactive science exhibitions, meet the animals in the Aquarium, and journey through the universe in the state-of-the-art Frost Planetarium.

Frost Science’s Summer Camp also offers a Curator-in-Training (CIT) program for middle school students ages 12-15. They’ll gain leadership skills, learn about various sci-

ence disciplines, and create a scientific resource or community action project under the guidance of a mentor. CITs will explore their interests in science, build their resumes, become young leaders in STEM, gain community service hours, and receive a recommendation letter for their time as a CIT. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity for discovery, hands-on learning, and summer fun! Secure your child’s spot today and let their curiosity take flight at Summer Camp at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science.

Visit frostscience.org/summercamp today to register. Space is limited!

ROBOTICS PALEONTOLOGY ASTRONOMY MICROBIOLOGY MARINE BIOLOGY

Summer Camp June 9 – August 8

Ages 5-15

Curator-in-Training program for campers ages 12-15

Register Now

frostscience.org/summercamp

1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, FL 33132 | 305-434-9600 | frostscience.org | @frostscience The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is supported by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners of Miami-Dade County. This project is supported by the Building Better Communities Bond Program and the City of Miami. Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the National Endowment for the Arts. The museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution and a member of the Association of Science and Technology Centers.

SUMMER SCHOOL AT PBA June 16th - July 25th, 2025 UP TO 6 WEEKS ON-CAMPUS, HYBRID & DISTANCE ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

Dual-Enrollment Univ. Courses Designed for Students w/ Learning Differences SAT/ACT Test Prep

Earn up to 2 HS Credits!

Course Recovery Honors Course Recovery Skill Building

25 Years Serving South Florida The Gold Standard of Non-Traditional Schools!

From Advanced Academics to Credit Recovery

786-293-5353 OR ACRUZ@PALMETTOBAYACADEMY.COM Summer Mini-Camps for Bright/Gifted, Profoundly Gifted & Twice-Exceptional Kids!

We know them because we were them!

Half Day, Week-Long Camps Pro-Neurodivergent Combine Camps for More Fun! Small Groups Varying Ages

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Over 25 years serving S. Florida Families

SUMM ER June 9 - August 1

Junior Camp

Give your child the summer of a lifetime at

Ages 3 - Grade 2

Riviera! Junior Camp sparks imagination

Senior Camps

offer exciting activities and skill-building

with playful exploration, while Senior Camps

Grades 2 - 10

clinics.

Summer School

Summer School sets the stage for academic

Grades 6 - 12

success. Spaces are filling fast—register today for an unforgettable summer!

$40 registration fee waived if you register by May 1, 2025.

rivieraschools.com/summer

FROM SCREEN TIME TO GREEN TIME

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n a world filled with screens and schedules, the best way to enrich your child’s summer might be the simplest—more time outside. From boosting creativity to strengthening resilience, outdoor play isn’t just fun; it’s essential for growth.

Discover why fresh air, sunshine, and unstructured exploration can be the key to a happier, healthier, and more engaged child this summer.

Childhood used to be defined by movement. Kids climbed trees, rode bikes, and came home with scraped knees. Summers meant freedom—time to explore, wander, and get into a little harmless trouble. Now? Teens spend an average of seven hours a day on screens and barely seven minutes outdoors. This shift is what author Richard Louv calls “Nature Deficit Disorder.” Children today spend significantly less time outside than previous generations, and the effects are hard to ignore. Anxiety is rising, motor skills are weakening, and attention spans are shrinking. Studies also link this indoor lifestyle to obesity, vitamin D deficiencies, and rising rates of loneliness. While screens deserve some blame, technology isn’t the only culprit. Between endless homework, structured activities, and Mandarin lessons before kids have even lost a baby tooth, free time has all but disappeared. And then there’s safety.

No parent wants their child roaming the neighborhood like it’s 1985. The world has changed, and it’s tempting to throw in the towel and let kids

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morph into blue-light-obsessed, overscheduled mini-CEOs. They seem happy. They’re quiet. But at what cost?

The good news? The fix is simple: more time outside. Nature improves mood, focus, and overall well-being, acting as a natural antidote to stress and overstimulation. Summer is the perfect time to hit the reset button. Longer days, warmer weather, and a break from rigid schedules create the perfect opportunity to swap screen time for green time and reclaim what’s been lost.

Physical Benefits of Outdoor Play Outdoor play isn’t just fun—it’s fundamental. Running, climbing, and spinning build strength, coordination, and confidence in ways indoor play can’t. Activities like swinging or rolling down a hill strengthen the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial awareness. Climbing forces

kids to adjust to different angles, sharpening reflexes and body control. Even small actions like picking up rocks and threading leaves onto a stick help refine dexterity.

Beyond movement, outdoor play strengthens the immune system. Fresh air bolsters the immune system in ways no vitamin gummy can fake, while sunlight fuels vitamin D production, keeping bones strong and reducing sick days. A 2021 Finnish study found that replacing sterile daycare floors with forest soil improved children’s immune function within weeks. These physical benefits are just the beginning.

Mental and Emotional Benefits Nature doesn’t just strengthen the body, it resets the mind. Time outdoors lowers stress, improves focus, and helps kids regulate emotions. Unlike predictable indoor spaces, nature is dynamic, providing a full sensory experience—the feel of grass on bare feet, the sound of birds, the scent of freshly cut leaves—all of which help recalibrate a nervous system overloaded by screens.

Outdoor play helps kids think and feel better, too.

Time in nature lowers cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, promoting calm and emotional balance. It also provides space for unstructured play, allowing them to process emotions in real-time; whether that’s the excitement of spotting a butterfly or the frustration of a wobbly stick fort that keeps falling over.

But the benefits of spending time outside extend beyond mood and emotions. It also sharpens focus, strengthens attention span, and improves emotional regulation, particularly for kids with ADHD. Unlike screens, which constantly demand attention, nature allows the brain to recharge. It engages without overwhelming, offering a quiet but powerful mental reset.

Researchers have also found that outdoor play strengthens executive function skills, including impulse control, patience, and problem-solving. Kids who spend more time outside tend to be better at assessing

risks, thinking through decisions, and handling frustration without seeking instant gratification. These mental and emotional benefits make outdoor play a crucial contributor to a child’s well-being, shaping how they interact with the world around them.

Social and Cognitive Growth Outside, there are no rules. Or rather, kids make their own. When left to their own devices (the old-school kind, not the glowing screens), kids collaborate, invent, and negotiate. Whether they’re building a fort, making up a new game, or settling an argument over whose turn it is, outdoor play teaches confidence, independence, and resilience.

Time in nature also helps kids feel connected—not just to their friends, but to the world around them.

Watching a bird build a nest, following a line of ants, or flipping over a rock to find worms—these small moments plant the seeds of curiosity and stewardship. And kids who fall in love with the outdoors are more likely to care for it as they grow.

“TIME IN NATURE IS NOT A LUXURY,

IT’S A NECESSITY.”

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Unlike the controlled predictability of indoor spaces, nature is a constantly changing environment that trains kids to be aware, adaptable, and in tune with their surroundings. It offers both physical and mental benefits that screens simply can’t replicate. But in a world of packed schedules and digital distractions, carving out time for outdoor play takes intention. Finding ways to make it a regular habit without overhauling daily life can make all the difference.

Finding Ways to Make Outdoor Time a Habit For families looking to increase outdoor play, the 1000 Hours Outside movement offers a simple yet powerful challenge: replace screen hours with outdoor hours, aiming for 1,000 hours outside per year. The number isn’t random; research shows that many kids spend over 1,000 hours per year in front of screens. Reclaiming even a fraction of that for fresh air and movement can make a life-changing difference.

Hitting 1,000 hours doesn’t mean you have to throw out every device and move off the grid. It breaks down to

just under three hours per day. Some days, that might mean a long bike ride or a picnic at the park. Other times, it’s as simple as taking a post-dinner walk instead of watching TV. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress. If you’re wondering where to start, the 1,000 Hours Outside podcast is a great resource, offering expert insights and practical advice on making outdoor time a bigger part of daily life.

Finding Balance Encouraging kids to play outside doesn’t mean banning technology—it just means making space for fresh air, movement, and a little unstructured fun. Outdoor play builds confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills in ways no app can. Climbing, exploring, and taking small risks teach kids to trust themselves, adapt to challenges, and (bonus!) burn off energy for an easier bedtime. Summer enrichment programs are a fantastic way to blend learning with outdoor play—giving kids the chance to discover new passions while soaking up the sun. A childhood spent outdoors isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential. And the best time to start is right now. 

Camp Gulliver provides unique offerings for every grade level and interest–all in one place! STEAM, Athletics, Broadcasting, Dance and more!

gulliver.life/summer25 12 | SCF

REGISTRATION

OPENS MARCH 10

6-18

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FEATURED SOUTH FLORIDA

Summer Camps & Enrichment Programs MIAMI - DADE COUNTY 1. ALEXANDER CAMP 2. CAMP KENDALL 3. CUSHMAN SUMMER PROGRAMS 4. FALCON SUMMER PROGRAMS 5. FROST SCIENCE 6. GULLIVER PREP SUMMER 7. KLA ACADEMY 8. KLA SCHOOLS 9. PALMETTO BAY ACADEMY 10. RIVIERA SCHOOLS SUMMER

RIVIERA SCHOOLS SUMMER Junior Camp Ages 3 - Grade 2 6800 Nervia Street Coral Gables, FL 33146 (305) 666-1856 Senior Camps Grades 2-10 Summer School Grades 6-12 9775 SW 87th Avenue Miami, FL 33176 (786) 300-0300 www.rivieraschools.com DAY CAMPS • SPECIALIZED CAMPS • SUMMER SCHOOL

ALEXANDER CAMP Toddler Summer Session* Preschool 18 mos. - 3 years *for Alexander Students Only 17800 Old Cutler Road Miami FL 33157 (305) 969-1814 Preschool Camp Ages 3 - 6 years 14400 Old Cutler Road Miami FL 33158 (305) 233-4540 Elementary Camp Ages 6 - 12 years 14850 SW 67th Avenue Miami FL 33158 (305) 235-3995 Red Road Campus Transportation hub to/from all Camps 6050 SW 57th Avenue Miami FL 33143 (305) 665-6274

FALCON SUMMER PROGRAMS Three Sessions June 9 - 27 Athletic Camps: Grades 1 – 8 Academic Camps: Grades 6– 12

8001 S.W. 184 St. Miami, FL 33157 (305) 251-2230

palmertrinity.org/summer-programs ATHLETIC CAMPS • ACADEMIC CAMPS

FROST SCIENCE

Campers ages 5 -11 Curator-in-Training Program ages 12-15

1101 Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL 33132 (305) 434-9518 frostscience.org/summercamp SCIENCE CAMP

www.alexandermontessori.com DAY CAMPS • SPECIALIZED CAMPS

KLA SCHOOLS KLA Schools of Aventura 12 Months - 5 years 20301 Biscayne Blvd.

Aventura, FL 33180 (305) 931-2322 KLA Schools of Coral Gables 3 Months - 5 years 4573 Ponce De Leon Blvd.

Coral Gables, FL 33146 (305) 668-0552 KLA Schools of Doral 12 Months - 5 years (offers VPK) 10400 NW 33rd Street #100 Miami, FL 33172 KLA Schools of North Bay Village 3 Months - 5 years 7800 Hispanola Avenue North Bay Village, FL 33141 (305) 865-2678 KLA Schools of North Miami Beach 3 Months - 5 years (Offers VPK) 13702 Biscayne Blvd.

North Miami Beach, FL 33181 (305) 697-8018

KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay 6-18 3 Months - 5 years Summer programs for ages 6 -18 14875 S. Dixie Highway, Unit B Camp Gulliver provides unique offerings for every grade level and interest–all in one place! STEAM, Swim Miami, FL 33176 Athletics, Broadway, Broadcasting, and more!

Marian C. Krutulis PK-8 Lessons, Campus (305) 233-0130 12595 Red Road Coral Gables, FL 33156 KLA Schools of West Kendall 3 Months - 5 years (Offers VPK/SR) Upper School Campus 8950 SW 137th Avenue Miami, FL 33186 6575 North Kendall Drive (305) 387-2480 Pinecrest, FL 33156

GULLIVER PREP SUMMER

CAMP KENDALL Preschool - 6th Grade 8485 SW 112 Street Miami, FL 33156 (305) 271-3723

www.kendallchristian.com

(305) 666-6333 gulliver.life/summer

www.klaschools.com

DAY CAMP • SUMMER ENRICHMENT

DAY CAMPS • SPECIALIZED CAMPS • SUMMER STUDIES

REGGIO EMILIA INSPIRED PRIVATE SCHOOL

CUSHMAN SUMMER PROGRAMS Pre-K – 12th Grade Virtual Summer Classes Grades 6-12

KLA ACADEMY SUMMER CAMP Preschool & Elementary Ages 3 Months - 11 Years

PALMETTO BAY ACADEMY 1st - 12th Grade

592 NE 60th Street Miami, FL 33137 (305) 757-1966

375 SW 15th Road Miami, FL 33129 (305) 377-0391

www.cushmanschool.org DAY CAMPS • SPORTS CAMPS • SUMMER STUDIES

klaacademy.org SUMMER DAY CAMP • SPECIALTY CAMPS

16637 S Dixie Highway Miami, FL 33157 (786) 293-5353 www.palmettobayacademy.com SCF | 15 SUMMER SCHOOL • MINI CAMPS

3 KLA SCHOOLS KLA Schools of Boynton Beach 3 Months - 5 years (Offers VPK) 1601 N Congress Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33426 (561) 735-1042

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PALM BEACH COUNTY

KLA Schools of Lake Worth 6 weeks - 5 years (Offers VPK) 4945 Via Bari Lake Worth, FL 33463 (561) 432-9559

13. KLA SCHOOLS

www.klaschools.com REGGIO EMILIA INSPIRED PRIVATE SCHOOL

KLA SCHOOLS KLA Schools of Pembroke Pines 3 Months - 5 Years (Offers VPK) 18055 NW 8th Street Pembroke Pines, FL 33029 (954) 443-6168

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BROWARD COUNTY 11. KLA SCHOOLS

KLA Schools of Fort Lauderdale 3 Months - 5 years 2857 E. Oakland Park Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306 (954) 530-1960

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12. ST. THOMAS AQUINAS CAMPS 5

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KLA Schools of Coconut Creek 3 Months - Kindergarten (Offers VPK) 6310 N State Road 7 Coconut Creek, FL 33073 (954) 571-8019

www.klaschools.com REGGIO EMILIA INSPIRED PRIVATE SCHOOL

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ST. THOMAS AQUINAS HIGH SCHOOL Age 7-15 2801 SW 12 Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 (954) 581-0700

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www.aquinas-sta.org AQUINAS RAIDER SPORTS CAMPS

OFFERINGS INCLUDE

ACADEMICS

ATHLETICS

(Grades 6-12)

(Grades 1-8)

Introduction to Engineering Cooking Through Cultural Heritage Leadership in Public Speaking and more...

CO-ED

GIRLS

Basketball Lacrosse Volleyball Soccer Tennis

BOYS

Baseball Football

DATES: Half and Full Day Options — Lunch Included SESSION I

SESSION II

SESSION III

June 9–13

June 16–20*

June 23–27

*In honor of Juneteenth, there will be no camp on June 19 th.

REGISTER TODAY!

For more information and to register:

PTS761g-1_Summer-Camp-Florida-Villager-Academics_Ad-8.25x4.875_Final.indd 1

Palmer Trinity School 8001 SW 184th Street, Miami, FL 33157 3/19/25 4:15 PM

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SUMMER 2025

FAMILY BOOK CLUB

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ummer is here, which means you finally have time to read something other than texts or whatever random Reddit rabbit hole you fell into at 2 a.m. The good news?

Reading isn’t just entertainment; it’s one of the best ways to expand your mind. Books let us escape while building empathy, helping us see the world through different perspectives. They sharpen critical thinking, boost memory, and even reduce stress. And let’s not forget the best part: reading is basically time travel. You can revisit history or imagine the future, all without having to deal with airport security or packing.

Books develop print awareness in young children, helping them understand that words carry meaning. For adults, reading is the ultimate mental workout. It improves focus while offering a much-needed break from daily stress.

Whether you’re diving into a nonfiction habit-building guide or an exciting novel, reading is a fantastic way to

explore new worlds and ideas. Below is a mix of fiction and nonfiction recommendations—something for every member of the family.

Books let you travel without ever leaving your couch. And the best part? If you check out books from your local library, you don’t have to spend a dime! Did you know that the Miami-Dade Public Library System offers a free home delivery service? Once you have a library card, they will mail books to your door for free. You simply log in through their website or app, request the books you want, and a few clicks later, they’re on their way. It’s easy, it’s free, and it’s an amazing way to support your community. Because using your library doesn’t just save you money, it helps keep libraries funded and ensures resources stay available for everyone. So go ahead and get a library card and think of it as your passport to endless summer adventures.

A NOTE FOR PARENTS Some books touch on important but sensitive topics—like historical injustices, discrimination, or real-life hardships.

These stories are usually told in a thoughtful and age-appropriate way, but they might bring up big questions or difficult conversations. Parents should be ready for these discussions. While we believe these stories present historical realities in a thoughtful and meaningful way, we understand that interpretations may vary and we respect that perspectives on sensitive topics can differ.

We always recommend that parents check out books first to make sure they’re a good fit for their kids. Every reader is different, and what works for one child might not for another. Taking a quick look ahead of time helps make sure the story matches your family’s values and your child’s emotional maturity. Happy reading!

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THE BOOK WITH NO PICTURES BY B.J. NOVAK Children’s Picture Book | Young Readers (Ages 4-8) Most kids assume a book without pictures must be boring, like getting a cake with no frosting.

But The Book with No Pictures pulls off a magic trick: it makes words so funny that kids forget they wanted pictures in the first place. The whole gimmick is that whoever’s reading it has to say whatever is on the page, no matter how ridiculous. Perfect for ages 4 to 8, this book is a brilliant way to show kids that reading can be fun. Introducing humor through reading helps children realize that stories don’t need pictures to hold their attention, making them more open to trying text-heavy books in the future.

THE LEAF MEN AND THE BRAVE GOOD BUGS BY WILLIAM JOYCE Adventure Fiction | Young Readers (Ages 4-8) Even the smallest creatures can make a big difference, especially when they work together. That’s exactly what happens in The Leaf Men and the Brave Good Bugs. An old woman has always told children that her garden is a magical place, but when she falls ill, it begins to wither. The bugs who call it home refuse to let their world crumble, so they band together on a daring mission to save it.

This beautifully illustrated story is about bravery, teamwork, and the power of even the smallest heroes to make a big impact. Strength isn’t about size—it’s about heart. Perfect for children ages 4 to 8, this is a great pick for kids who love adventure, fantasy, and rooting for underdogs. With its captivating story and meaningful message, this book will spark kids’ imaginations while teaching them about courage and perseverance.

GHOST BY JASON REYNOLDS Realistic Fiction | Middle-Age Readers (Ages 10-14) If you’re looking for a fast-paced, inspiring sports novel, Ghost by Jason Reynolds is a great pick.

The story follows Castle “Ghost” Cranshaw, a kid with natural speed but a troubled past. When he stumbles onto a track team, he gets a chance to turn his life around, but only if he can learn to stop getting in his own way. This book is more than just a sports story—it’s about perseverance, self-control, and finding a place to belong. While the story is uplifting, it does touch on some reallife struggles, including Ghost’s difficult home life, but these moments are referenced rather than graphically described.

A middle-grade book aimed at ages 10 to 14, Ghost has received numerous accolades, including being a National Book Award Finalist for Young People’s Literature (2016). It’s also the first book in Reynolds’ Track series, so if you love it, there’s more where that came from.

THE SMALL AND THE MIGHTY BY SHARON MCMAHON Historical Non-fiction | Middle-Age Readers (Ages 10-14), Teens, Young Adults & Adults History isn’t just shaped by the big names we all know—it’s built by countless unsung heroes whose stories deserve to be told. The Small and the Mighty, highlights twelve remarkable Americans who made a real impact but don’t always get the recognition they deserve. What makes this New York Times bestseller stand out is McMahon’s engaging, conversational storytelling that makes history feel fresh and relatable rather than just a list of names and dates. Great for readers 10 and up, it’s a perfect pick for history buffs, educators, students, and families looking for an insightful summer read or a fresh perspective on history.

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THE LITTLE PRINCE BY ANTOINE MARIE DE SAINT-EXUPÉRY Fiction Novella | Middle Readers (Ages 10-14), Teens Some books grow with you, revealing new layers each time you read them. The Little Prince is one of those rare gems. On the surface, it’s a whimsical tale of a tiny prince who travels from planet to planet meeting quirky characters and learning life lessons along the way. But beneath the charming illustrations and simple prose is a deeply philosophical tale about love, loss, and seeing the world through the eyes of a child. This timeless classic is basically the literary equivalent of a Pixar movie— it’s fun and charming when you’re a kid, but surprisingly profound as an adult. It’s a reminder to stay curious, cherish real connections, and stop being such a Businessman counting stars.

HOW TO BECOME A STRAIGHT-A STUDENT BY CAL NEWPORT Non-fiction, Personal Development | Teens, Young Adults If you want to get better grades without giving up your social life, check out How to Become a Straight-A Student by Cal Newport, a Georgetown professor and New York Times bestselling author.

Based on interviews with top students at elite universities, Newport found that straight-A students don’t study more—they study smarter. His formula (Work Accomplished = Time Spent × Intensity of Focus) proves that success isn’t about long hours but about focused, efficient work. He debunks the myth that students lack time, showing that the real issue is how they use it. His time management system helps students avoid cramming, stay ahead of deadlines, and reduce stress, making it just as valuable for high schoolers as for college students.

If you’re a high school student aiming for competitive colleges, check out Newport’s How to Be a High School Superstar, which focuses on standing out in admissions without burnout. For incoming or current college students, How to Win at College offers insights on building strong habits, relationships, and a well-rounded college experience.

THE WOMEN BY KRISTIN HANNAH Historical Fiction Novel | Teens, Young Adults & Adults The Women isn’t just a novel—it’s a full-on emotional rollercoaster that also happens to teach history without making it feel like homework. Through the eyes of an idealistic, naïve young nurse, you’re thrown headfirst into the chaos of the Vietnam War. Even if historical fiction isn’t your thing, don’t let that stop you. At its heart, The Women is a coming-of-age story about a young woman discovering resilience, friendship, and love—only to return home to a country that wants to forget the war ever happened.

It’s also a powerful look at the emotional and psychological toll of war, shedding light on PTSD and the long, messy road to healing. While the book is appropriate for mature teens, it deals with serious topics like war, death, trauma, and addiction. Yes, it’s a long read—but it’s worth every page. By the end, you won’t just have learned something about history; you’ll feel like you lived through it…from the safety of your couch, of course.

THE OBSTACLE IS THE WAY BY RYAN HOLIDAY Non-fiction, Self-Help | Teens, Young Adults & Adults Setbacks happen—bad grades, injuries, rejections—but what if you could turn those problems into opportunities? In The Obstacle Is the Way, Ryan Holiday takes the ancient philosophy of Stoicism and makes it practical, showing how history’s most successful athletes, entrepreneurs, and world leaders used it to overcome difficulties and thrive. Drawing from Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius’s wisdom, Holiday argues that obstacles aren’t roadblocks—they’re the way forward. He teaches you how to control what you can, let go of what you can’t, and keep moving, a mindset embraced by coaching legends like Bill Belichick and Pete Carroll to build mental toughness. But even if you’re not aiming for the NFL, this book will help you handle challenges like a pro. For more on self-discipline and longterm success, check out Holiday’s Discipline Is Destiny.

ATOMIC HABITS BY JAMES CLEAR Non-fiction, Self-Help | Teens, Young Adults & Adults Starting a new habit sounds easy, but actually sticking to it feels impossible! You tell yourself, this is the week I stop scrolling before bed! But next thing you know, it’s midnight and you’re watching a video about the history of rubber bands. If you want to break this vicious cycle, check out Atomic Habits.

Unlike other self-improvement books that yell at you to “be more disciplined,” Atomic Habits breaks down the science of habit formation into simple, practical steps that work. It’s not about making huge, impossible changes overnight—it’s about tiny changes that compound over time and lead to big results. Clear’s system is built on four key principles: make good habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying; and do the exact opposite for bad habits. One of his best tricks is habit stacking, where you attach a new habit to something you already do. By linking habits together, they become automatic, making it easier to stay consistent. These strategies help you set up your environment for success, so willpower isn’t even necessary.

Atomic Habits is practical, backed by science, and actually works. No vague motivational fluff, just clear, actionable strategies that help you make lasting changes. There’s a reason it’s been #1 on the New York Times bestseller list for five years straight—it delivers results.

MAN’S SEARCH FOR MEANING BY VIKTOR FRANKL Non-fiction, Memoir | Young Adults & Adults Man’s Search for Meaning will change how you see the world. Written by Viktor Frankl, an Austrian psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, this book is part memoir, part philosophy, and a wake-up call about what matters in life. It chronicles Frankl’s time in Nazi concentration camps and the mindset that helped him endure, offering a powerful guide to finding meaning—even in the worst circumstances.

Frankl argues that meaning, not happiness, is the key to a fulfilling life. Suffering is inevitable, but what defines us is how we respond. He identifies three sources of meaning: work (doing something significant), love (caring for others), and courage in difficult times. It’s a short book, but it will stick with you forever.

Whether you’re a student facing a big life transition, a parent guiding their child, or just someone wondering what am I even doing with my life?, this book will help you realize that meaning isn’t something you stumble upon—it’s something you create. While deeply inspiring, it does include descriptions of suffering and death in Nazi concentration camps, though not in graphic detail.

LET THEM BY MEL ROBBINS Non-fiction, Personal Development | Young Adults & Adults If you’ve ever exhausted yourself trying to control things—or let’s be honest, people—The Let Them Theory is the mindset shift you didn’t know you needed. In her signature no-nonsense, relatable style, motivational speaker Mel Robbins explains why we waste so much energy on things we can’t control, and how freeing it is to simply let them be.

Rather than overthinking and people-pleasing, this book teaches you how to focus on what matters.

Through real-life examples and practical strategies, you’ll learn to stop seeking validation, set boundaries without guilt, and confidently make your own choices. This mindset also helps make it easier to get along with people who see the world differently. Instead of letting your blood pressure spike during Thanksgiving dinner debates, you’ll learn to accept differences, find common ground, and save your energy for things you can actually control.

The Let Them Theory is a perfect read for students learning to stand strong in their own beliefs instead of following the crowd, aspiring entrepreneurs ready to trust their instincts, or parents letting go of stress and giving their newly independent college-age kids room to grow.