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General Recommendations

2021 Youth Summer Reading Recommendations for Emerging Readers (6-12)

By:

YouthServices_KCMO

The Kansas City Public Library

Staff-created list

Our youth librarians have chosen titles to spark your interest this summer and beyond! Choose from these books or find your own to earn your free light up cup! See kclibrary.org/summerreading for details.

By:

YouthServices_KCMO

The Kansas City Public Library

24 items

24 items

Prairie Lotus

Prairie Lotus

by Park, Linda Sue

Downloadable Audiobook - 2020

Park wrote Prairie Lotus in direct response to the childhood classics written my Missouri author, Laura Ingalls Wilder. The story explores prairie life fr...Show more Park wrote Prairie Lotus in direct response to the childhood classics written my Missouri author, Laura Ingalls Wilder. The story explores prairie life from the perspective of a young half-Chinese girl and her white father. It includes a thoughtful note from the author addressing the Little House series. Show less

Park wrote Prairie Lotus in direct response to the childhood classics written my Missouri author, Laura Ingalls Wilder. The story explores prairie life fr...Show more Park wrote Prairie Lotus in direct response to the childhood classics written my Missouri author, Laura Ingalls Wilder. The story explores prairie life from the perspective of a young half-Chinese girl and her white father. It includes a thoughtful note from the author addressing the Little House series. Show less

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Sanity & Tallulah

Sanity & Tallulah

by Brooks, Molly

Graphic Novel - 2018

Graphic novel fans will love this story of two brilliant girls who live in a space station at the end of the galaxy. After illegally creating a three head...Show more Graphic novel fans will love this story of two brilliant girls who live in a space station at the end of the galaxy. After illegally creating a three headed kitten, the girls attempt to recapture the escaped kitten before she wreaks havoc on the entire space station. Show less

Graphic novel fans will love this story of two brilliant girls who live in a space station at the end of the galaxy. After illegally creating a three head...Show more Graphic novel fans will love this story of two brilliant girls who live in a space station at the end of the galaxy. After illegally creating a three headed kitten, the girls attempt to recapture the escaped kitten before she wreaks havoc on the entire space station. Show less

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The Mac Undercover

The Mac Undercover

Mac B., Kid Spy Series, Book 1

by Barnett, Mac

eBook - 2018

Perfect for reluctant readers, this humorous series set in the 80s follows young Mac and his adventures solving crimes and foiling Russian KGB spies for the queen of England. Perfect for reluctant readers, this humorous series set in the 80s follows young Mac and his adventures solving crimes and foiling Russian KGB spies for the queen of England. Show less

Perfect for reluctant readers, this humorous series set in the 80s follows young Mac and his adventures solving crimes and foiling Russian KGB spies for the queen of England. Perfect for reluctant readers, this humorous series set in the 80s follows young Mac and his adventures solving crimes and foiling Russian KGB spies for the queen of England. Show less

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The Camping Trip

The Camping Trip

by Mann, Jennifer K.

Book - 2020

This is a great introduction to how scary it can feel to step outside your comfort zone, but getting out there and enjoying the great outdoors is always worth it! This is a great introduction to how scary it can feel to step outside your comfort zone, but getting out there and enjoying the great outdoors is always worth it! Show less

This is a great introduction to how scary it can feel to step outside your comfort zone, but getting out there and enjoying the great outdoors is always worth it! This is a great introduction to how scary it can feel to step outside your comfort zone, but getting out there and enjoying the great outdoors is always worth it! Show less

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Easy Peasy

Easy Peasy

Gardening for Kids

by Bradley, Kirsten

Book - 2019

Enjoy Missouri's natural abundance this summer by learning to care for all the plants that thrive and provide here in our state. Enjoy Missouri's natural abundance this summer by learning to care for all the plants that thrive and provide here in our state. Show less

Enjoy Missouri's natural abundance this summer by learning to care for all the plants that thrive and provide here in our state. Enjoy Missouri's natural abundance this summer by learning to care for all the plants that thrive and provide here in our state. Show less

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Class Act

Class Act

by Craft, Jerry

Pre-loaded Audiobook - 2020

This highly anticipated sequel to Newbery Award winning graphic novel New Kid continues the story of Drew, Jordan, and Liam as they navigate their second ...Show more This highly anticipated sequel to Newbery Award winning graphic novel New Kid continues the story of Drew, Jordan, and Liam as they navigate their second year at Riverdale Academy Day School. Drew is having a difficult time maintaining his friendship with Liam, as he realizes that no matter how hard he works, he doesn't have the same opportunities as Liam and his other more privileged classmates. Show less

This highly anticipated sequel to Newbery Award winning graphic novel New Kid continues the story of Drew, Jordan, and Liam as they navigate their second ...Show more This highly anticipated sequel to Newbery Award winning graphic novel New Kid continues the story of Drew, Jordan, and Liam as they navigate their second year at Riverdale Academy Day School. Drew is having a difficult time maintaining his friendship with Liam, as he realizes that no matter how hard he works, he doesn't have the same opportunities as Liam and his other more privileged classmates. Show less

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Nessie Quest

Nessie Quest

by Savage, Melissa

Book - 2020

Ada Ru thinks her summer will be full of friends and a trip to Disney World. Much to her dismay, her parents have instead decided that her father will tak...Show more Ada Ru thinks her summer will be full of friends and a trip to Disney World. Much to her dismay, her parents have instead decided that her father will take a teaching job at a University in Scotland. Will a summer of new friends and Nessie Hunting even come close to the summer adventures that could have been? Show less

Ada Ru thinks her summer will be full of friends and a trip to Disney World. Much to her dismay, her parents have instead decided that her father will tak...Show more Ada Ru thinks her summer will be full of friends and a trip to Disney World. Much to her dismay, her parents have instead decided that her father will take a teaching job at a University in Scotland. Will a summer of new friends and Nessie Hunting even come close to the summer adventures that could have been? Show less

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All the Animals Where I Live

All the Animals Where I Live

by Stead, Philip Christian

Book - 2018

All the animals where he lives also live in Missouri! See how many of these animals you can identify. All the animals where he lives also live in Missouri! See how many of these animals you can identify. Show less

All the animals where he lives also live in Missouri! See how many of these animals you can identify. All the animals where he lives also live in Missouri! See how many of these animals you can identify. Show less

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Stick Dog

Stick Dog

Stick Dog Series, Book 1

by Watson, Tom

eBook - 2013

This hilarious series full of stick drawings introduces you to Stick Dog and his four stray doggy friends, Stripes, Mutt, Karen, and Poo-Poo. The team of ...Show more This hilarious series full of stick drawings introduces you to Stick Dog and his four stray doggy friends, Stripes, Mutt, Karen, and Poo-Poo. The team of dogs attempt a series of ridiculous (and hilarious) plans with the hopes of scoring some yummy food being grilled by a family at the park. Show less

This hilarious series full of stick drawings introduces you to Stick Dog and his four stray doggy friends, Stripes, Mutt, Karen, and Poo-Poo. The team of ...Show more This hilarious series full of stick drawings introduces you to Stick Dog and his four stray doggy friends, Stripes, Mutt, Karen, and Poo-Poo. The team of dogs attempt a series of ridiculous (and hilarious) plans with the hopes of scoring some yummy food being grilled by a family at the park. Show less

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Pencils, Pens & Brushes

Pencils, Pens & Brushes

A Great Girls' Guide to Disney Animation

by Johnson, Mindy

Book - 2019

Did you know Walt Disney's first animation studio started right here in Kansas CIty? Learn about the various female animators, artists, and designers who helped make some of your favorite Disney films. Did you know Walt Disney's first animation studio started right here in Kansas CIty? Learn about the various female animators, artists, and designers who helped make some of your favorite Disney films. Show less

Did you know Walt Disney's first animation studio started right here in Kansas CIty? Learn about the various female animators, artists, and designers who helped make some of your favorite Disney films. Did you know Walt Disney's first animation studio started right here in Kansas CIty? Learn about the various female animators, artists, and designers who helped make some of your favorite Disney films. Show less

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Steamboat School

Steamboat School

by Hopkinson, Deborah

Book - 2016

Did you know that at one time it was against the law for African Americans to go to school in Missouri? This is the true story of the creative "work around" that one St. Louis educator used to keep his school afloat. Did you know that at one time it was against the law for African Americans to go to school in Missouri? This is the true story of the creative "work around" that one St. Louis educator used to keep his school afloat. Show less

Did you know that at one time it was against the law for African Americans to go to school in Missouri? This is the true story of the creative "work around" that one St. Louis educator used to keep his school afloat. Did you know that at one time it was against the law for African Americans to go to school in Missouri? This is the true story of the creative "work around" that one St. Louis educator used to keep his school afloat. Show less

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Lewis and Clark and Me

Lewis and Clark and Me

A Dog's Tale

by Myers, Laurie

Book - 2002

True Story: Explorer Meriwether Lewis was accompanied by his dog, Seaman, when he traveled westward with William Clark. He was an important and beloved me...Show more True Story: Explorer Meriwether Lewis was accompanied by his dog, Seaman, when he traveled westward with William Clark. He was an important and beloved member of the group. This fictional tale is Seaman's recounting of one of the most extraordinary expeditions of all time. Show less

True Story: Explorer Meriwether Lewis was accompanied by his dog, Seaman, when he traveled westward with William Clark. He was an important and beloved me...Show more True Story: Explorer Meriwether Lewis was accompanied by his dog, Seaman, when he traveled westward with William Clark. He was an important and beloved member of the group. This fictional tale is Seaman's recounting of one of the most extraordinary expeditions of all time. Show less

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Keeper of the Lost Cities

Keeper of the Lost Cities

Keeper of the Lost Cities Series, Book 1

by Messenger, Shannon

eBook - 2020

For fans of fantasy, adventure, mystery, and friendship, this incredible series takes readers into the modern elvin world, hidden in cities assumed to be ...Show more For fans of fantasy, adventure, mystery, and friendship, this incredible series takes readers into the modern elvin world, hidden in cities assumed to be mythical by humans. Sophie, a 12 year old with remarkable talents, discovers that she is actually an elf who has been secretly hidden in the human world, and must leave the life she knows to travel to the Lost Cities. Show less

For fans of fantasy, adventure, mystery, and friendship, this incredible series takes readers into the modern elvin world, hidden in cities assumed to be ...Show more For fans of fantasy, adventure, mystery, and friendship, this incredible series takes readers into the modern elvin world, hidden in cities assumed to be mythical by humans. Sophie, a 12 year old with remarkable talents, discovers that she is actually an elf who has been secretly hidden in the human world, and must leave the life she knows to travel to the Lost Cities. Show less

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Fairy Floss

Fairy Floss

The Sweet Story of Cotton Candy

by Ingalls, Ann

Book - 2017

Visit an early 1900’s Missouri during the famous St. Louis World Fair and learn about the origins of Cotton Candy and other spectacular inventions exhibited there. Visit an early 1900’s Missouri during the famous St. Louis World Fair and learn about the origins of Cotton Candy and other spectacular inventions exhibited there. Show less

Visit an early 1900’s Missouri during the famous St. Louis World Fair and learn about the origins of Cotton Candy and other spectacular inventions exhibited there. Visit an early 1900’s Missouri during the famous St. Louis World Fair and learn about the origins of Cotton Candy and other spectacular inventions exhibited there. Show less

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Mary Walker Wears the Pants

Mary Walker Wears the Pants

The True Story of the Doctor, Reformer, and Civil War Hero

by Harness, Cheryl

Book - 2013

The biography of the Doctor, Reformer and Civil War Hero who first dared to show the world that yes, women CAN wear pants, and even more! Written by Missouri author. The biography of the Doctor, Reformer and Civil War Hero who first dared to show the world that yes, women CAN wear pants, and even more! Written by Missouri author. Show less

The biography of the Doctor, Reformer and Civil War Hero who first dared to show the world that yes, women CAN wear pants, and even more! Written by Missouri author. The biography of the Doctor, Reformer and Civil War Hero who first dared to show the world that yes, women CAN wear pants, and even more! Written by Missouri author. Show less

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The Actual & Truthful Adventures of Becky Thatcher

The Actual & Truthful Adventures of Becky Thatcher

by Lawson, Jessica

Downloadable Audiobook - 2014

Becky can’t seem to keep out of mischief. For the most part it hasn’t landed her into too much trouble, but when she accidentally witnesses something she’...Show more Becky can’t seem to keep out of mischief. For the most part it hasn’t landed her into too much trouble, but when she accidentally witnesses something she’s not supposed to, and the Widow Douglas is wrongfully accused of graverobbing, Becky might be the only one who can clear her name. Will she have the courage to speak up, even if it means getting in trouble? Show less

Becky can’t seem to keep out of mischief. For the most part it hasn’t landed her into too much trouble, but when she accidentally witnesses something she’...Show more Becky can’t seem to keep out of mischief. For the most part it hasn’t landed her into too much trouble, but when she accidentally witnesses something she’s not supposed to, and the Widow Douglas is wrongfully accused of graverobbing, Becky might be the only one who can clear her name. Will she have the courage to speak up, even if it means getting in trouble? Show less

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Give It up

The Story of John "Buck" O'Neil

Book - 2006

You may already know that "Buck" O'Neil helped create the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum here in Kansas City. But do you know the name of his fav...Show more You may already know that "Buck" O'Neil helped create the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum here in Kansas City. But do you know the name of his favorite song? Or the year that he started playing baseball for the Kansas City Monarchs? Learn the answers to these and other questions in this book, written and illustrated by local students at Primitivo Garcia Elementary School. Includes an original song written by local musician Bob Walkenhorst. Show less

You may already know that "Buck" O'Neil helped create the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum here in Kansas City. But do you know the name of his fav...Show more You may already know that "Buck" O'Neil helped create the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum here in Kansas City. But do you know the name of his favorite song? Or the year that he started playing baseball for the Kansas City Monarchs? Learn the answers to these and other questions in this book, written and illustrated by local students at Primitivo Garcia Elementary School. Includes an original song written by local musician Bob Walkenhorst. Show less

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Josephine

Josephine

The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker

by Powell, Patricia Hruby

Downloadable Audiobook - 2013

Did you know this legendary entertainer grew up in the Show Me state? Get to know one of the iconic performers of the 20th century with playful illustrations by Christian Robinson. Did you know this legendary entertainer grew up in the Show Me state? Get to know one of the iconic performers of the 20th century with playful illustrations by Christian Robinson. Show less

Did you know this legendary entertainer grew up in the Show Me state? Get to know one of the iconic performers of the 20th century with playful illustrations by Christian Robinson. Did you know this legendary entertainer grew up in the Show Me state? Get to know one of the iconic performers of the 20th century with playful illustrations by Christian Robinson. Show less

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Wedgie & Gizmo

Wedgie & Gizmo

by Selfors, Suzanne

eBook - 2017

A hilarious series perfect for pet lovers, Wedgie & Gizmo tells the story of a cape-wearing Corgi who believes he is a superhero, and an evil genius g...Show more A hilarious series perfect for pet lovers, Wedgie & Gizmo tells the story of a cape-wearing Corgi who believes he is a superhero, and an evil genius guinea pig who dreams of world domination. The two pets, who each come from different sides of a blended family, take turns telling their story as both families (and pets) move in together under one roof. Show less

A hilarious series perfect for pet lovers, Wedgie & Gizmo tells the story of a cape-wearing Corgi who believes he is a superhero, and an evil genius g...Show more A hilarious series perfect for pet lovers, Wedgie & Gizmo tells the story of a cape-wearing Corgi who believes he is a superhero, and an evil genius guinea pig who dreams of world domination. The two pets, who each come from different sides of a blended family, take turns telling their story as both families (and pets) move in together under one roof. Show less

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The Boneshaker

The Boneshaker

by Milford, Kate

Book - 2010

Set in 1913 small town Missouri, this slow burn of a mystery-thriller revolves around a traveling medicine show and a young girl whose interest in machines may be the key to save her community. Set in 1913 small town Missouri, this slow burn of a mystery-thriller revolves around a traveling medicine show and a young girl whose interest in machines may be the key to save her community. Show less

Set in 1913 small town Missouri, this slow burn of a mystery-thriller revolves around a traveling medicine show and a young girl whose interest in machines may be the key to save her community. Set in 1913 small town Missouri, this slow burn of a mystery-thriller revolves around a traveling medicine show and a young girl whose interest in machines may be the key to save her community. Show less

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Mascot

Mascot

by John, Antony

Book - 2018

Set in St. Louis, we find Noah struggling after a car accident leaves him paralyzed. With the help of his friends he is able to accept his new circumstances. Set in St. Louis, we find Noah struggling after a car accident leaves him paralyzed. With the help of his friends he is able to accept his new circumstances. Show less

Set in St. Louis, we find Noah struggling after a car accident leaves him paralyzed. With the help of his friends he is able to accept his new circumstances. Set in St. Louis, we find Noah struggling after a car accident leaves him paralyzed. With the help of his friends he is able to accept his new circumstances. Show less

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Don't Check Out This Book!

Don't Check Out This Book!

by Klise, Kate

Book - 2020

This Missouri author has several books like this with lots of wordplay and puns. Through the use of letters, memos, texts, newspaper articles and other bi...Show more This Missouri author has several books like this with lots of wordplay and puns. Through the use of letters, memos, texts, newspaper articles and other bits of ephemera, this quick-read manages to be fun even while it tackles the serious subject of censorship and those who will champion kids' right to read! Show less

This Missouri author has several books like this with lots of wordplay and puns. Through the use of letters, memos, texts, newspaper articles and other bi...Show more This Missouri author has several books like this with lots of wordplay and puns. Through the use of letters, memos, texts, newspaper articles and other bits of ephemera, this quick-read manages to be fun even while it tackles the serious subject of censorship and those who will champion kids' right to read! Show less

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Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats

Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats

by Eliot, T. S.

eBook - 2009

Did you know that the songs from the musical "Cats" were based on the poems by Missouri-born author T.S. Eliot? Rum Tum Tugger, Mr Macavity, and...Show more Did you know that the songs from the musical "Cats" were based on the poems by Missouri-born author T.S. Eliot? Rum Tum Tugger, Mr Macavity, and Magical Mr. Mistoffelees are all here in this book of poems originally written for Eliot's godchildren. Show less

Did you know that the songs from the musical "Cats" were based on the poems by Missouri-born author T.S. Eliot? Rum Tum Tugger, Mr Macavity, and...Show more Did you know that the songs from the musical "Cats" were based on the poems by Missouri-born author T.S. Eliot? Rum Tum Tugger, Mr Macavity, and Magical Mr. Mistoffelees are all here in this book of poems originally written for Eliot's godchildren. Show less

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I Survived the Joplin Tornado, 2011

I Survived the Joplin Tornado, 2011

by Tarshis, Lauren

Pre-loaded Audiobook - 2017

A young boy rides along with seasoned storm chasers and narrowly escapes one of the most devastating tornado strikes in history. Tarshis was inspired to a...Show more A young boy rides along with seasoned storm chasers and narrowly escapes one of the most devastating tornado strikes in history. Tarshis was inspired to add this title to her successful series because of the resilience shown by the community of Joplin, MO. Show less

A young boy rides along with seasoned storm chasers and narrowly escapes one of the most devastating tornado strikes in history. Tarshis was inspired to a...Show more A young boy rides along with seasoned storm chasers and narrowly escapes one of the most devastating tornado strikes in history. Tarshis was inspired to add this title to her successful series because of the resilience shown by the community of Joplin, MO. Show less

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