Summer is almost here—bringing sunny days, popsicles, splashy adventures, and the perfect chance to dive into a great book! Whether your child lounges in a hammock, rides on a family road trip, or enjoys quiet time inside, reading keeps their imagination active and their minds engaged. It’s a simple way to spark curiosity, build vocabulary, and create lasting memories.

This season, why not explore something new? We've curated a list of delightful children’s books from indie and self-published authors—creative storytellers who craft meaningful, fun, and inspiring books for kids ages 2–8. These hidden gems may not be found in big-box stores, but they’re full of heart, adventure, and the kind of magic kids will want to read again and again.

First up are my own children’s books—each created with heart, imagination, and a little extra fun. Put the Phone Down, Mary Lou encourages kids to unplug and explore the world around them. Kendra’s New Shoes inspires kindness and giving back, while Count to 20 with the Silly Dinosaurs brings bedtime and counting to life with playful prehistoric friends. These stories are perfect for children ages 2–8 and make a joyful addition to your summer reading stack!

You can find them here: https://www.quilltownbooks.com

2. Website: www.sockcrewadventures.com

Book title: The Sock Crew Adventures Series

Ages- 5-8

About: Sara and her magical socks travel the world learning culture, art and history. It’s not just a book it’s a coloring book too!

3. Website: www.thereselynchcreates.com 

Book title: A Mole in One

Ages: 4-9

About: Join Fergus the golfing mole as he discovers that being true to himself and embracing his unique talents leads to victory on and off the course.

5. Website: www.amydoslich.com  

Book Title: Seeking Snowball

About: Uh-oh! Snowball, the family dog, has escaped, and it’s up to your little one to bring him home safely! Join Hannah and Mary in this delightful adventure from The Hannah Banana and Mary Berry Series, where every page is a new opportunity for fun and exploration.

6. Website: https://www.katiegigliotti.com

Book title: Wander World

About: Up, up, and away!

Boredom doesn’t always have to be bad.

When a bored young girl persuades her sleepy grandpa to take a journey with her, they embark on an imaginative adventure. Together, they wander around the world visiting each of the seven continents, right from the living room couch!

Check out Katie Gigliotti's other books All My Love & You Are

8. Kelsey Chen

Instagram: @fivelittledumplings

Website: Www.dumplingsandus.com

Five Little Dumplings Series-(13 books and counting)

About: Five Little Dumplings is a delightful picture book series for children, featuring uplifting and educational stories that inspire joy, curiosity, and growth.

10. Erin Murphy

Website: www.erinmurphybooks.com/

Book Title: Halfway Home: A Rescue Dog’s Sky-high Journey to Acceptance

Book Title: Daring Dexter: How Aviation Sparks Change in a Rescue Dog’s Life

About: Two great stories about animal rescue and adoption. These books feature some great humor and provide an insight into how dogs may be feeling throughout the rescue and adoption process with an emphasis on how aviation has been a great resource for these rescue dogs.

12. Christina Allen

Instagram: @christina_b_biancov

Website: Www.fruity-budz.com/

Frog Fish and Worm and Dorothy Dustbucket

About: Frog, Fish, and Worm is a funny, rhyming tale for kids aged 2–8. Three cheeky pals outwit the hairy fisherman, Stan. With help from a toothless croc, they show that teamwork can take down a bully.

13. Rachael Tarfman-Perez

Instagram: @rachaeltarfmanperez

Website: www.rachaeltarfmanperez.com

Gia Toddler-Preschool-Kindergarten Series

About: In this charming series, little Gia tackles big milestones like potty training, discovers the joy of her favorite foods, and makes sweet new friends along the way. With laugh-out-loud moments, helpful tips for parents & children, and delightful illustrations, these stories make everyday challenges feel fun, relatable, and oh-so-cute.