Children's Summer Reading List
Westerville Obituaries - June 29, 2025
Summer Reading for Young Readers: Books That Capture Imagination, Friendship, and Small-Town Adventures
Westerville has always celebrated reading, from the shelves of its nationally recognized public library to its support for local authors and educators. This summer, The Westerville News reading list for elementary schoolers highlights books that blend laughter, adventure, and emotional depth.
Ohio authors write some. Westerville neighbors even write a few. All of them honor the magic of childhood and the power of story.
Whether your child is just beginning chapter books or confidently turning pages on their own, these titles are sure to spark conversation and curiosity all summer long.
Parents may want to review books before their children read them to ensure the stories align with their children’s age, maturity, and interests. Reviewing helps parents identify anything too scary, confusing, or not in line with their family values. It also prepares them to answer questions and talk about important themes together, making reading a positive and supportive experience.
1,2,3, A Deep Breathe for Me by Hillary Harper
Written by Westerville author Hillary Harper, this cheerful picture book introduces Mack, a golden retriever puppy full of curiosity, joy, and big feelings. With gentle humor and vibrant illustrations, it’s an excellent read for families exploring themes of love, growth, and emotional expression.
Ages 3–6
Thankful FUR You by Hillary Harper
In this Thanksgiving-themed follow-up, Mack returns to celebrate gratitude with his family. Winner of the 2023 Moonbeam Gold Medal, this story encourages children to notice and name the things they’re thankful for—puppies included.
Ages 3–6
When Grandma Gatewood Took a Hike by Michelle Houts
Ohio author Michelle Houts tells the true story of Emma Gatewood, a 67-year-old grandmother from Gallia County who became the first woman to hike the entire Appalachian Trail solo. The book is equal parts biography and inspiration, showing kids that strength and courage can take many forms.
Ages 7–10
Sea Glass Summer by Michelle Houts
In this quiet and reflective story, a young boy visits his grandfather’s lake house and collects sea glass, each piece revealing memories of someone who once held it. Set on the shores of Lake Erie, this book weaves themes of grief, family, and continuity with the natural rhythm of the lake.
Ages 6–8
In the Tall, Tall Grass by Denise Fleming
Toledo native Denise Fleming uses vivid textures and rhythmic text to draw young readers into a spring day from the caterpillar's perspective. With buzzing bees, snapping ants, and fluttering butterflies, it’s a perfect choice for toddlers and early readers exploring nature.
Ages 2–5
Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
Set on a family farm, this beloved classic tells the story of Wilbur, a pig who’s afraid of being turned into bacon, and Charlotte, the wise and kind spider who spins words into her web to save his life. More than a tale of friendship, it’s a quiet meditation on loyalty, growing up, and the ways we remember those we love.
Ages 8–11
The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall
Four sisters spend the summer in a rented cottage on the grounds of a grand estate in the Berkshire Mountains. With old-fashioned charm and modern sensibility, this book celebrates sibling bonds, curious adventures, and the small dramas that shape a childhood summer.
Ages 8–12
Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
After moving to a new town in Florida, ten-year-old Opal adopts a scruffy dog that helps her form unexpected friendships and come to terms with her mother's absence. DiCamillo’s gentle storytelling honors the small miracles of everyday life and the emotional depth of children.
Ages 8–11
Henry Huggins by Beverly Cleary
This first book in Cleary’s beloved series introduces Henry, a regular kid living on Klickitat Street in Portland, Oregon. With a stray dog named Ribsy and a knack for getting into well-meaning trouble, Henry’s adventures reflect the freedom and mischief of neighborhood life in a simpler time.
Ages 7–9
The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes
In a small town, Wanda Petronski wears the same dress to school every day but claims to have a hundred beautiful ones at home. A story about bullying, regret, and empathy, this short book invites young readers to reflect on kindness, inclusion, and the importance of speaking up, even when it's too late.
Ages 7–9
The Year of Billy Miller by Kevin Henkes
Billy enters second grade with a bump on his head, a loose tooth, and worries about whether he’s smart enough. Over the school year, he navigates friendships, school projects, and family moments in a voice that’s funny, thoughtful, and completely real.
Ages 6–8
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo
Edward is a porcelain rabbit who starts vain and indifferent. But after he is lost, he passes through the lives of several children and families, experiencing love, grief, and transformation. DiCamillo writes with elegance and emotional weight that invites deeper thinking from readers of all ages.
Ages 9–12
A Long Way from Chicago by Richard Peck
Every summer, Joey and his sister Mary Alice are sent to visit their larger-than-life Grandma Dowdel in rural Illinois. Set during the Great Depression, this series of linked stories is filled with humor, unexpected justice, and the growing realization that Grandma may not be as cranky or law-abiding as she appears.
Ages 9–12
Those Darn Squirrels! by Adam Rubin
In this picture book with sharp wit and hilarious illustrations, Old Man Fookwire loves birds but can’t stand the squirrels who keep raiding his birdfeeders. Kids will love the clever tricks, escalating mischief, and the grudging friendship that forms between man and rodent.
Ages 4–7
Homer Price by Robert McCloskey
In the town of Centerburg, Homer’s life is anything but quiet. He tangles with a runaway doughnut machine, rescues skunks, and outsmarts a band of robbers. Set in mid-century America, these short stories blend wholesome misadventures with a sharp sense of humor.
Ages 8–11
Mellybean and the Giant Monster by Mike White
Mellybean is a cheerful pup who accidentally ends up in a magical world ruled by a not-so-nice king and threatened by a giant monster. With comic-book-style panels, silly dialogue, and a big heart, this graphic novel is excellent for reluctant readers or fans of adventure with laughs.
Ages 7–10
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser
The five Vanderbeeker children have only eleven days to convince their curmudgeonly landlord not to evict them from their brownstone in Harlem. With creativity, teamwork, and a deep love for their home, the kids hatch plan after plan. A modern classic about community, family, and the value of where you live.
Ages 8–12
Surviving the Applewhites by Stephanie S. Tolan
When bad boy Jake Semple is sent to live with the eccentric Applewhite family, he expects chaos—and he gets it. But amid goats, homeschooling, and a family of artists, Jake begins to find out who he might be, given the space to grow.
Ages 9–12
Books by Will Hillenbrand (Cincinnati)
With titles like Sleep, Big Bear, Sleep! and Spring Is Here, Hillenbrand’s picture books blend cozy illustrations with gentle humor and seasonal themes. He’s a favorite among librarians and kids alike.
Ages 3–6
Westerville Obituaries- June 29, 2025
Amy Jean (Atwood) Groseclose, 100, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025.
Born March 25, 1925, in Genoa Township, Ohio, she was the eldest of four children of Lawrence “Buck” and Catherine “Nornie” Atwood. After growing up on the family farm in Galena, Amy graduated from Harlem High School, where she met her husband, Jack. They were married in 1942 before Jack served in World War II.
Amy was known for her warm spirit and laughter that brightened every room. She loved gardening, spending time in nature, caring for animals, and sharing simple joys with others. She enjoyed shopping, playing Euchre, listening to Dean Martin and Tom Jones, and welcoming everyone into her home.
She was a member of Harlem Road Church and celebrated her 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Delaware County.
The Westerville News is a reader-supported publication by Gary Gardiner, a lifelong journalist who believes hyper-local reporting is the future of news. This publication focuses exclusively on Westerville—its local news, influence on Central Ohio, and how surrounding areas shape the community.
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