Let us help you choose your next book! Welcome to Sweet Reads, a curation of titles hand-selected by our Sweet July community.
Up next: We’ve recommended quality reads tailored specifically for the curious and budding minds in your life. Dive into our Children & Young Adult selections below!
Dork Diaries by Rachel Renée Russell
My girls are absolutely loving this series! It gives them the feel of a quick-read comic book with the storyline and emotion of a classic novel. The girls are so quickly connected to the characters. I’m thankful to the writer that there are 14 books so far in this age-appropriate series. – Ayesha Curry, Founder, Sweet July
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
The story allows children of color to see themselves in a truly magical way. Where we once had to stretch our imaginations to feel included in fantasy stories, this book soothes that need in such a beautiful way. – Kyra Lumpkin, founder of Penrose Apothecary.
Full, Full, Full of Love by Trish Cooke; Illustrated by Paul Howard
This is one of my favorite books to read to my 3-year-old, I even recently read it to his class. It takes me back to Sunday dinner traditions at my great-grandparents’ house growing up. A lot of the core people who were a part of those Sunday dinners aren’t here anymore, but I continue to instill those traditions and values into my little one—that communal eating is special and we can create memories through food. – Amber the Conduit, Sweet July/Sweet Scopes Columnist
Eyes That Kiss In The Corners by Joanna Ho; Illustrated by Dung Ho
I started reading this book to [my daughter] Ava. It’s a picture book about a young Asian girl who notices that her eyes look different from her peers and learns to embrace her own beauty and lineage. Whilst this book might have an intended audience, I think non-Asian families will be able to connect with the story as well. I love how the book inspires readers to recognize the beauty of heritage, culture, and, most importantly, self-love. My hope is that Ava will learn how to embrace her features and find strength in her uniqueness. – Shirlene Loi, Product Development Manager, Sweet July
Always With You, Always With Me by Kelly Rowland & Jessica McKay; Illustrated by Fanny Liem
This sweet, lyrical story of the relationship between a working mother and her son was beyond relatable to read but also soothing and comforting for my son to hear. It celebrates working women and the beautiful bond of a family simultaneously. A must-read for any family. – Lizzy Mathis, multihyphenate host and founder of the lifestyle brand The Cool Mom Co.
Just Like Your Daddy by Tiffany Parker; Illustrated by Navi’ Robins
We love to read this book to [our son] Aiden because of the bond he and I share with all the activities we do together. This book is especially important for us as it highlights how valuable a father-son relationship is. – Alvin Belt, VP of Operations, Sweet July
Big Tune: Rise of The Dancehall Prince by Alliah L. Agostini; Illustrated by Shamar Knight-Justice
This traces a little boy’s journey to save Big Tune Saturday for his family and friends! In this brand-new release, readers get a peek into a beautiful community celebration including food, music, and a love for dance. – Gabrielle Davenport, cofounder of BEM | books & more
On Air with Zoe Washington by Janae Marks
This is Janae Marks’ bestselling sequel to From the Desk of Zoe Washington and it’s a special treat for preteen readers to spend more time with this delightful character. On Air with Zoe Washington braids together themes of food, family, social justice and entrepreneurship and makes for a perfect YA read this spring! – Danielle Davenport, cofounder of BEM | books & more
The Mastery of Love by Don Miguel Ruiz
OMG! Every teenager should read this in high school. This book teaches you the real meaning and action of love. I feel the world would be a much better place if we all read it! – Tracy Williams, Human Resources Director, Sweet July
There’s An Alien In Your Book by Tom Fletcher; Illustrated by Greg Abbott
This has been an all-time favorite at bedtime with my son. The book is interactive and requires both a parent and child to participate. I will admit that I am coerced into reading this book more than once at bedtime. – Ayesha Curry, Founder, Sweet July
