Henry gets to take a cross-country trip with his eccentric aunts while he parents are working in Africa. It is a trip that will open the door to understanding his family and himself!

-Barbara

James and his grandfather have a very different view of what the ideal vacation might be. Grandpa Bill thinks that nature camp would be a wonderful way to spend the week, while James and his friend Eamon would rather stay inside, play video games, and eat banana waffles! Somehow, in this hilarious book, everyone manages to get just what they want from their vacation week. A great look at how important grandparents, the great outdoors, and even jumping on the bed, can be in a child's life.

-Miriam

The book invites kids to take long walks along the beach and highlights some of the interesting things that they might discover there. Young beachcombers will learn old and new ideas about collecting or just identifying their finds. For children who are looking for a relaxing summer activity.

-Mariana

Another charming story from award winning author/illustrator Tomie DePaola. Children (and adults) enjoy the beloved character, Strega Nona, who helps the people of Calabria get well with her remedies and potions. When Strega Nona goes to the seashore to relax, the bumbling Big Anthony causes her to return- yet again. This book provides enjoyable entertainment- as well as some basic Italian- e.g. vieni=come, arrivederci=good-bye, un bacio=a kiss. Bravo Tomie DePaola!

-Susan

A Drive in the Country
by Michael J. Rosen, illustrated by Marc Burckhardt
E ROSEN

It's time for a summer drive in the country! Pack up the family dog, drinks and snacks, plus jars (for keeping interesting bugs) and some spending money. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of country roads, with plenty of leisurely stops along the way. Evocative text combines with bright and fresh illustrations to create a nostalgic and relaxing read.

-Vicky

Pictures From Our Vacation
by Lynne Rae Perkins
E PERKI

and

As Easy As Falling Off the Face of the Earth

by Lynne Rae Perkins
J PERKI

Two gems from Newbery-medalist Perkins. In Pictures From Our Vacation, for younger readers, a summer trip to the old family farm gets off to a slow start-- the furniture is shabby and covered with dust, the lake is far away and it seems as if the rain will never stop. But when the relatives start to arrive for a family reunion, memories are made that will last a lifetime.

For older readers, As Easy As Falling Off the Face of the Earth is the story of sixteen-year-old Ry, who finds himself in the middle of Montana with only a dying cell phone when his summer camp is unexpectedly cancelled and the train that he is travelling on leaves without him. What follows is the cross-country (with a small detour to the Caribbean) adventure of a lifetime!

-Kathy