The First Partner’s Summer Book Club
The First Partner’s Summer Book Club is a 9-week initiative to promote children’s literacy and participation in summer reading programs hosted by local libraries throughout the state.
Launched in partnership with the California State Library, the First Partner’s Summer Book Club offers California families opportunities to keep children engaged all summer long.
Summer reading helps younger children build a solid foundation for literacy and ensures that older children retain what they learned in the previous academic year, preventing learning loss known as “summer slide.” Studies show that students who participate in summer reading programs have better reading skills at the end of third grade and score higher on standardized tests than students who don’t participate.
BOOKLIST
The First Partner’s Summer Book Club features 21 books hand-picked by the First Partner for children up to ninth grade. Each book teaches kids important social and emotional learning tools and highlights key values like diversity, self-love and acceptance.
SUMMER READING PROGRAMS NEAR YOU
Public library summer reading programs are a great way for children to stay engaged and have fun all summer long. Many libraries also serve free summer meals through the USDA Summer Food Service Program. California public library summer programs are free for everyone. Visit the State Library’s interactive map to discover summer offerings at your local library.
#CAKidsRead
Want to get connected this summer? Join our community on social media by tagging us using #CAKidsRead on any social media platform – and be sure to spread the word to your friends!
Join the First Partner for a Summer of Learning and Fun!
Storytime with the First Partner & Friends
Story time is such a fun way for families to connect. Check out the First Partner’s latest virtual story time with Vacaville Unified School District’s Head Chef Richie Wilim: Miguel’s Community Garden by JaNay Brown-Wood.
California State Parks Learning Programs
The California State Parks Summer Learning Program engages K-12 educational communities and community organizations that offer summer programming for underserved student populations. Students have the opportunity to visit a participating California state park for a day or for an overnight immersive program exploring the outdoors and cultural and natural resources of the park.