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Youth bookstore growing readers and storytellers

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win prizes for reading all summer long

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Summer Classes

Join us for eight weeks of story-inspired classes, workshops, clubs, and creative experiences for babies, toddlers, kids, tweens, and teens.

Every session is designed as a complete stand-alone adventure, making it easy to drop in for a single class or join us all summer long.

Read. Create. Explore. Imagine.

Upcoming Events

Shop our curated lists on bookshop.org to find great new books for kids and teens

The Latest from Midsummer Books

Looking for baby shower or new baby gifts? Our answer is always books. I always love to pick a great book for the baby library as well as something that parents will enjoy reading aloud especially in the first year, because reading to babies from the beginning is an incredible tool for building vocabulary, it should also be enjoyable for the parent. So I love to tuck in a classic or a beautifully written, middle grade or YA novel that the parent can read to the child today and then the child can be on their own as they grow. Even though the babies won’t understand every word they’re sucking up the rhythm of language from day one. Besides when you give gifts that aren’t just for the first year you’re helping build a library that says I can’t wait to watch you grow!
#babyshowergift #readaloud #bookseller #indiebooksellers #fishtownphilly

Looking for baby shower or new baby gifts? Our answer is always books. I always love to pick a great book for the baby library as well as something that parents will enjoy reading aloud especially in the first year, because reading to babies from the beginning is an incredible tool for building vocabulary, it should also be enjoyable for the parent. So I love to tuck in a classic or a beautifully written, middle grade or YA novel that the parent can read to the child today and then the child can be on their own as they grow. Even though the babies won’t understand every word they’re sucking up the rhythm of language from day one. Besides when you give gifts that aren’t just for the first year you’re helping build a library that says I can’t wait to watch you grow!
#babyshowergift #readaloud #bookseller #indiebooksellers #fishtownphilly

There are some series that I forgot about and am so excited to rediscover!
Oppels series gives us an unusual but compelling cast - bats. These vulnerable creatures cross continents, navigate stars, face predators, and discover ancient mysteries.

Silverwing introduces Shade, a young bat separated from his colony who embarks on an unforgettable journey home.

Sunwing expands the world even further, taking readers into strange new places filled with danger, mythology, and wonder.

These books are perfect for readers who love:
Animal adventures with real stakes and worlds inspired by nature

And of course it is now also available as a graphic novel!

There are some series that I forgot about and am so excited to rediscover!
Oppels series gives us an unusual but compelling cast - bats. These vulnerable creatures cross continents, navigate stars, face predators, and discover ancient mysteries.

Silverwing introduces Shade, a young bat separated from his colony who embarks on an unforgettable journey home.

Sunwing expands the world even further, taking readers into strange new places filled with danger, mythology, and wonder.

These books are perfect for readers who love:
Animal adventures with real stakes and worlds inspired by nature

And of course it is now also available as a graphic novel!

I've read so many great stories this year but here are a few of the recent releases that really stand out for me
- for more details about each title and a few others that didn't make the recording, check out my latest post up at Midsummerbooks.com and while you're there explore our upcoming events.

I've read so many great stories this year but here are a few of the recent releases that really stand out for me
- for more details about each title and a few others that didn't make the recording, check out my latest post up at Midsummerbooks.com and while you're there explore our upcoming events.

From dragon alphabets and cryptid field guides to fantasy writing workshops and creature-filled storytimes, we’re spending the week exploring some of our favorite mythical worlds. Story Lab: Dragons & Cryptids (Ages 0–5)
Meet tiny heroes, brave dragons, and discover what courage really looks like.
Story Seekers (Ages 5–8)
Design your own magical companion and explore legendary creatures.
Hand Lettering: Dragon Alphabets & Fantasy Initials (ages 9+)
Learn decorative lettering inspired by medieval manuscripts, castles, and ancient legends.
Plus fantasy writing, comic storytelling, junk journaling, teen makers, and much more throughout the week. Visit our link in bio to learn more or visit MidsummerBooks.com/summer-programming

From dragon alphabets and cryptid field guides to fantasy writing workshops and creature-filled storytimes, we’re spending the week exploring some of our favorite mythical worlds. Story Lab: Dragons & Cryptids (Ages 0–5)
Meet tiny heroes, brave dragons, and discover what courage really looks like.
Story Seekers (Ages 5–8)
Design your own magical companion and explore legendary creatures.
Hand Lettering: Dragon Alphabets & Fantasy Initials (ages 9+)
Learn decorative lettering inspired by medieval manuscripts, castles, and ancient legends.
Plus fantasy writing, comic storytelling, junk journaling, teen makers, and much more throughout the week. Visit our link in bio to learn more or visit MidsummerBooks.com/summer-programming

Judge this book by its wrapping!
One of my favorite things to watch in the shop is when someone takes a chance on a book they never would have picked up otherwise. With our Surprise Stories, you’re putting your trust in us to pick an excellent book and we take that trust seriously. To help you make your pick, each book is wrapped with just a few clues: ✨ A one-line hook ✨ Themes you’ll love ✨ A few tiny doodles as clues ✨ Absolutely no title or cover

Some of my favorite books are hiding in these packages—including magical adventures, unforgettable coming-of-age stories, graphic novels, cozy fantasies, and page-turners I recommend all the time.

Plus a few fun extras: stickers, pens, key chains and fun little note pads.

The only question is...Which surprise will you choose?
 Surprise stories are wrapped with middle grade and YA gems, but many of them can be loved and enjoyed by adults as well.

Judge this book by its wrapping!
One of my favorite things to watch in the shop is when someone takes a chance on a book they never would have picked up otherwise. With our Surprise Stories, you’re putting your trust in us to pick an excellent book and we take that trust seriously. To help you make your pick, each book is wrapped with just a few clues: ✨ A one-line hook ✨ Themes you’ll love ✨ A few tiny doodles as clues ✨ Absolutely no title or cover

Some of my favorite books are hiding in these packages—including magical adventures, unforgettable coming-of-age stories, graphic novels, cozy fantasies, and page-turners I recommend all the time.

Plus a few fun extras: stickers, pens, key chains and fun little note pads.

The only question is...Which surprise will you choose?
 Surprise stories are wrapped with middle grade and YA gems, but many of them can be loved and enjoyed by adults as well.

Some of my favorite discoveries for the shop happen when I’m in and I’m so excited that two of the graphic novel series I fell in love with in the UK are finally on our shelves!

Rune by Carlos Sánchez is packed with fantasy, adventure, gorgeous artwork, and a world full of magic and mystery. If you love stories with quests, found family, and unforgettable creatures, this one’s for you. This is such a beautiful series and perfect for fans of Lightfall and Amulet.  Meesh the Bad Demon by Michelle Lam. This is such a funny, heartfelt, and charming series. It follows Meesh, a demon who would much rather help people than scare them, making it the perfect pick for readers who love humor, heart, and a little bit of magical chaos.

Some of my favorite discoveries for the shop happen when I’m in and I’m so excited that two of the graphic novel series I fell in love with in the UK are finally on our shelves!

Rune by Carlos Sánchez is packed with fantasy, adventure, gorgeous artwork, and a world full of magic and mystery. If you love stories with quests, found family, and unforgettable creatures, this one’s for you. This is such a beautiful series and perfect for fans of Lightfall and Amulet.  Meesh the Bad Demon by Michelle Lam. This is such a funny, heartfelt, and charming series. It follows Meesh, a demon who would much rather help people than scare them, making it the perfect pick for readers who love humor, heart, and a little bit of magical chaos.

Back with part two of excellent books to add to your TBR this summer whether it’s for you or for your teen reader.

Back with part two of excellent books to add to your TBR this summer whether it’s for you or for your teen reader.

If you’re looking for a new read, we’ve got recommendations! So many in fact that I’m making this a two part video so check out the recommendations in this one and then tomorrow I’ll upload the second half of the list of great reads from our YA section

If you’re looking for a new read, we’ve got recommendations! So many in fact that I’m making this a two part video so check out the recommendations in this one and then tomorrow I’ll upload the second half of the list of great reads from our YA section

I’d recommend these for ages nine and up. Every read through can be unique because your choices actually make a real difference!

I’d recommend these for ages nine and up. Every read through can be unique because your choices actually make a real difference!

One thing I’ve been thinking a lot about lately is making room for analog joy. Limiting Screen Time is really important in our family but then what are the kids going to do if it’s not a screen?

Books already ask us to slow down, imagine, and pay attention. I want the shop to do the same.

That’s why I couldn’t resist bringing these book nook kits back after seeing them everywhere in Europe. They’re tiny worlds you build with your own hands—part craft project, part miniature library, part reminder that not everything has to happen on a screen.

As Midsummer grows, I hope you’ll see more things like this alongside the books: thoughtful projects, creative kits, and hands-on ways to spend an afternoon making something beautiful.

Because stories don’t always end when you close the book. Sometimes they become something you build.

One thing I’ve been thinking a lot about lately is making room for analog joy. Limiting Screen Time is really important in our family but then what are the kids going to do if it’s not a screen?

Books already ask us to slow down, imagine, and pay attention. I want the shop to do the same.

That’s why I couldn’t resist bringing these book nook kits back after seeing them everywhere in Europe. They’re tiny worlds you build with your own hands—part craft project, part miniature library, part reminder that not everything has to happen on a screen.

As Midsummer grows, I hope you’ll see more things like this alongside the books: thoughtful projects, creative kits, and hands-on ways to spend an afternoon making something beautiful.

Because stories don’t always end when you close the book. Sometimes they become something you build.

So excited for our first class this morning all the supplies are loaded and we are ready to unlock some creativity on this dreary day. There’s still a few drop-in spots so swing on by with you’re two to 5-year-old for some hands on fun!!

So excited for our first class this morning all the supplies are loaded and we are ready to unlock some creativity on this dreary day. There’s still a few drop-in spots so swing on by with you’re two to 5-year-old for some hands on fun!!

I’m banking going on authenticity. I’ll be seeing a lot more of my strange little videos because behind this bookshop is a human who cares very deeply about the stories that we curate. This box was very exciting. I always love getting in a good new selection of graphic novels and it’s always fun to see which stories I’ve ordered end up in the same box together. Hope you find some inspiration for reading here!

I’m banking going on authenticity. I’ll be seeing a lot more of my strange little videos because behind this bookshop is a human who cares very deeply about the stories that we curate. This box was very exciting. I always love getting in a good new selection of graphic novels and it’s always fun to see which stories I’ve ordered end up in the same box together. Hope you find some inspiration for reading here!

We are doing something this summer for every kind of kid….the ones who live inside books and the ones still looking for their book. The ones who love arts and crafts and the ones who love to write. The dreamers and the realists.

Mid-Summer of Stories runs July 6–August 28 at Midsummer Books.

Classes are for ages 2 through teen. All available as drop-in but registration is limited. Check our link in bio for details.

#midsummerbooks #fishtownphilly #kidsclasses #phillykids

We are doing something this summer for every kind of kid….the ones who live inside books and the ones still looking for their book. The ones who love arts and crafts and the ones who love to write. The dreamers and the realists.

Mid-Summer of Stories runs July 6–August 28 at Midsummer Books.

Classes are for ages 2 through teen. All available as drop-in but registration is limited. Check our link in bio for details.

#midsummerbooks #fishtownphilly #kidsclasses #phillykids

Excited to go through this massive pile of books that were dropped by the shop while I was out of town. Sooo many titles hitting the shelves soon!!
As a reminder we are always taking books to help keep prices in the shop reasonable and good gently used books in circulation. You can drop them off for store credit/cash or donate them! Any books we don’t take for the shop we use to stock local @littlefreelibrary locations around the city

Excited to go through this massive pile of books that were dropped by the shop while I was out of town. Sooo many titles hitting the shelves soon!!
As a reminder we are always taking books to help keep prices in the shop reasonable and good gently used books in circulation. You can drop them off for store credit/cash or donate them! Any books we don’t take for the shop we use to stock local @littlefreelibrary locations around the city

I’ve been away from the shop a few weeks, so it felt like Christmas when I got home to these gorgeous new goodies! First up some portable mugs that you won’t want to put stickers on because the artwork is too pretty!! next a sneak peek at some of the new puzzles we have in stock from @final_piece_puzzles - their selection has been such a big hit, and I am so excited about these new designs. If you have a beach week planned, it’s always good to have a a portable bottle for your beachy beverages and a new puzzle packed just in case you have a rainy day!!
#artpuzzles #bookshopgifting #beachdaypackinglist #fishtownphilly

I’ve been away from the shop a few weeks, so it felt like Christmas when I got home to these gorgeous new goodies! First up some portable mugs that you won’t want to put stickers on because the artwork is too pretty!! next a sneak peek at some of the new puzzles we have in stock from @final_piece_puzzles - their selection has been such a big hit, and I am so excited about these new designs. If you have a beach week planned, it’s always good to have a a portable bottle for your beachy beverages and a new puzzle packed just in case you have a rainy day!!
#artpuzzles #bookshopgifting #beachdaypackinglist #fishtownphilly

Nothing says summer like a chance to choose your own adventures! These stories transform reading into a game, where every decision changes the story and no two reading experiences are exactly the same.

These books are perfect for
- Reluctant readers who like being in control
- Kids who love puzzles, games, and problem-solving
- Reading together as a family (and comparing endings!)
and of course my favorite, re-reading again and again to discover what happens next

One book. Dozens of adventures. Come grab your next adventure in the shop!

Nothing says summer like a chance to choose your own adventures! These stories transform reading into a game, where every decision changes the story and no two reading experiences are exactly the same.

These books are perfect for
- Reluctant readers who like being in control
- Kids who love puzzles, games, and problem-solving
- Reading together as a family (and comparing endings!)
and of course my favorite, re-reading again and again to discover what happens next

One book. Dozens of adventures. Come grab your next adventure in the shop!

On our vacation from the shop practicing what we preach. Always pack a good book or two for those moments when waiting isn’t easy…

On our vacation from the shop practicing what we preach. Always pack a good book or two for those moments when waiting isn’t easy…

Skip Prime. Shop Independent. Anti-Prime Day is on!

From today through June 26, you'll get FREE SHIPPING sitewide at Bookshop.org. Every order helps support independent bookstores like Midsummer Books.

Bookshop is all about indie, that means...
No memberships.
No giant warehouses.
Just great books and the local bookshops that love recommending them.

Whether you're stocking up for summer reading, grabbing a gift, or finally picking up that book you've been meaning to read, now's a great time to shop.

Because every order is a vote for diverse books, neighborhood bookstores, and a healthier book ecosystem.

🔗 Shop our Bookshop.org storefront (link also avail in bio) https://bookshop.org/shop/midsummer

#AntiPrimeDay #BookshopOrg #ShopIndie #IndependentBookstore #SummerReading

Skip Prime. Shop Independent. Anti-Prime Day is on!

From today through June 26, you'll get FREE SHIPPING sitewide at Bookshop.org. Every order helps support independent bookstores like Midsummer Books.

Bookshop is all about indie, that means...
No memberships.
No giant warehouses.
Just great books and the local bookshops that love recommending them.

Whether you're stocking up for summer reading, grabbing a gift, or finally picking up that book you've been meaning to read, now's a great time to shop.

Because every order is a vote for diverse books, neighborhood bookstores, and a healthier book ecosystem.

🔗 Shop our Bookshop.org storefront (link also avail in bio) https://bookshop.org/shop/midsummer

#AntiPrimeDay #BookshopOrg #ShopIndie #IndependentBookstore #SummerReading

Calling all curious readers and creative adventurers!

This summer, our Early Elementary programs (ages 5–9) invite kids to explore dragons, oceans, magical worlds, mysteries, folklore, and stars through stories and hands-on creativity.

Story Seekers, Tuesdays • 1PM
Perfect for newly independent readers! Each week brings a new adventure inspired by books like Ivy + Bean, Dragon Masters, Mermaid Days, and Zita the Spacegirl, paired with games, crafts, and imaginative projects.

Literacy Passport, Wednesdays • 1 PM
Travel through stories from around the world. Explore traditions, names, folklore, food, kindness, and cultures while collecting stamps and creating projects inspired by books and stories from many places.

Wonder Workshop, Thursdays • 1 PM

For kids who ask "why?" about everything. Through books, experiments, challenges, and maker projects, we'll explore dragons, sharks, plants, bees, the moon, mysteries, and more.

Each class is a complete stand-alone adventure. Drop in for one session or join us all summer.

Ages 5–9 (independent readers exploring chapter books and early graphic novels)

Join us to Read. Create. Explore. Imagine.
📍 Midsummer Books inside @ourmutual_friend
Registration is open! Sign up now as space is limited - see our link in bio or visit https://www.midsummerbooks.com/summer-programming

Calling all curious readers and creative adventurers!

This summer, our Early Elementary programs (ages 5–9) invite kids to explore dragons, oceans, magical worlds, mysteries, folklore, and stars through stories and hands-on creativity.

Story Seekers, Tuesdays • 1PM
Perfect for newly independent readers! Each week brings a new adventure inspired by books like Ivy + Bean, Dragon Masters, Mermaid Days, and Zita the Spacegirl, paired with games, crafts, and imaginative projects.

Literacy Passport, Wednesdays • 1 PM
Travel through stories from around the world. Explore traditions, names, folklore, food, kindness, and cultures while collecting stamps and creating projects inspired by books and stories from many places.

Wonder Workshop, Thursdays • 1 PM

For kids who ask "why?" about everything. Through books, experiments, challenges, and maker projects, we'll explore dragons, sharks, plants, bees, the moon, mysteries, and more.

Each class is a complete stand-alone adventure. Drop in for one session or join us all summer.

Ages 5–9 (independent readers exploring chapter books and early graphic novels)

Join us to Read. Create. Explore. Imagine.
📍 Midsummer Books inside @ourmutual_friend
Registration is open! Sign up now as space is limited - see our link in bio or visit https://www.midsummerbooks.com/summer-programming

Tress of the Emerald Sea is Sanderson at his most whimsical. Instead of the sprawling epics and endless lore of Stormlight, this one feels like a fairy tale told by someone who can’t resist making clever asides and is reminiscent of AA Milne. Tress herself is wonderfully refreshing heroine. She’s a practical girl whose superpower isn’t destiny or swordsmanship, but curiosity and competence.

The world building is great but also approachable. you’ve got oceans made of deadly spores, eccentric pirates, dragons, talking rats, and some of Sanderson’s funniest writing. The story is ultimately about love, friendship, and how ordinary people become extraordinary simply by deciding to act.

While Sanderson is primarily known for his epic adult fantasy, Tress is widely categorized as a Young Adult (YA). I’d say the book bridges the gap and is easily enjoyed by adult readers as well as young adults.

Readers who have found his epic fantasies intimidating may discover that this charming standalone is the perfect place to begin.

What I loved
A genuinely delightful heroine
A magical setting unlike anything else in fantasy
Humor that lands surprisingly well
Cozy adventure vibes but still with emotional depth

Perfect for readers who love:

* The Princess Bride
* Howl’s Moving Castle
* Legends & Lattes
* Character-driven fantasy with humor and heart
* Competent heroines and found-family crews

Favorite takeaway:
Tress reminds us that courage doesn’t always look loud. Sometimes it’s simply choosing to leave home, ask questions, and keep going

Tress of the Emerald Sea is Sanderson at his most whimsical. Instead of the sprawling epics and endless lore of Stormlight, this one feels like a fairy tale told by someone who can’t resist making clever asides and is reminiscent of AA Milne. Tress herself is wonderfully refreshing heroine. She’s a practical girl whose superpower isn’t destiny or swordsmanship, but curiosity and competence.

The world building is great but also approachable. you’ve got oceans made of deadly spores, eccentric pirates, dragons, talking rats, and some of Sanderson’s funniest writing. The story is ultimately about love, friendship, and how ordinary people become extraordinary simply by deciding to act.

While Sanderson is primarily known for his epic adult fantasy, Tress is widely categorized as a Young Adult (YA). I’d say the book bridges the gap and is easily enjoyed by adult readers as well as young adults.

Readers who have found his epic fantasies intimidating may discover that this charming standalone is the perfect place to begin.

What I loved
A genuinely delightful heroine
A magical setting unlike anything else in fantasy
Humor that lands surprisingly well
Cozy adventure vibes but still with emotional depth

Perfect for readers who love:

* The Princess Bride
* Howl’s Moving Castle
* Legends & Lattes
* Character-driven fantasy with humor and heart
* Competent heroines and found-family crews

Favorite takeaway:
Tress reminds us that courage doesn’t always look loud. Sometimes it’s simply choosing to leave home, ask questions, and keep going

Happy Midsummer Day!!

It's our namesake holiday, so we're celebrating the longest day of the year with a little something special.

✨ TODAY ONLY • June 21 ✨

Take 20% off all Midsummer Books items when you shop in person.

That includes all kids/youth new & used books, creative goodies, gifts and surprises

No code needed; your discount will be applied at checkout.

Come celebrate the season that inspired our name with stories, sunshine, and a little midsummer magic.

In-store only ☀️ Sunday, June 21
📍 Midsummer Books at Our Mutual Friend

Happy Midsummer Day!!

It's our namesake holiday, so we're celebrating the longest day of the year with a little something special.

✨ TODAY ONLY • June 21 ✨

Take 20% off all Midsummer Books items when you shop in person.

That includes all kids/youth new & used books, creative goodies, gifts and surprises

No code needed; your discount will be applied at checkout.

Come celebrate the season that inspired our name with stories, sunshine, and a little midsummer magic.

In-store only ☀️ Sunday, June 21
📍 Midsummer Books at Our Mutual Friend

Just a little reminder that Father’s Day is tomorrow!

Whether he’s the bedtime story reader, the comic book collector, the dad-joke champion, or the one who always says “just one more chapter,” we’ve got books for dads, grandpas, uncles, and all the grown-ups who share stories with the kids they love.

Stop by this week for picture books, graphic novels, epic tales, and plenty of ideas for every kind of reader.

Just a little reminder that Father’s Day is tomorrow!

Whether he’s the bedtime story reader, the comic book collector, the dad-joke champion, or the one who always says “just one more chapter,” we’ve got books for dads, grandpas, uncles, and all the grown-ups who share stories with the kids they love.

Stop by this week for picture books, graphic novels, epic tales, and plenty of ideas for every kind of reader.

Wandering around Copenhagen and doing what I always seem to do…popping into bookstores, and I couldn’t help smiling when I spotted some of my favorite titles translated into Danish.

There’s something special about seeing stories you love living new lives in another language. A reminder that great books really do travel.

Wandering around Copenhagen and doing what I always seem to do…popping into bookstores, and I couldn’t help smiling when I spotted some of my favorite titles translated into Danish.

There’s something special about seeing stories you love living new lives in another language. A reminder that great books really do travel.

Before there was Panem, there was Uglies by Scott Westerfeld.

In a world where everyone undergoes surgery at sixteen to become “Pretty,” Tally Youngblood can’t wait for her turn—until a new friend shows her that perfection comes with a price.

Part adventure, part rebellion, and surprisingly relevant in the age of filters and social media, Uglies explores beauty, identity, friendship, and the courage to question the world around you.

Perfect for readers who love books like The Hunger Games and Divergent

Before there was Panem, there was Uglies by Scott Westerfeld.

In a world where everyone undergoes surgery at sixteen to become “Pretty,” Tally Youngblood can’t wait for her turn—until a new friend shows her that perfection comes with a price.

Part adventure, part rebellion, and surprisingly relevant in the age of filters and social media, Uglies explores beauty, identity, friendship, and the courage to question the world around you.

Perfect for readers who love books like The Hunger Games and Divergent

Our Summer Reading challenge is on and
adventure is waiting. The Midsummer Summer Reading Passport is here!

Designed for kids, tweens, and teens, our passports are packed with reading challenges, creative prompts, book-inspired adventures, and opportunities to explore the world through stories.

Choose a Young Readers Passport (those needing reading support or in chapter books) or our Tween & Teen Passport (for independent readers) and complete activities throughout the summer.

This passport is a go-at-your-own-pace adventure.
No weekly check-ins.
No stamps required.
Just a summer full of stories.

We have themes and choose-your-own activities throughout the passport so every reader can have fun with this one. Check off the tasks and quests completed for prizes at the end of the summer!

Prize Levels
10 Challenges Completed = Story Starter
20 Challenges Completed = Adventure Reader
30 Challenges Completed = Master Explorer
40+ Challenges Completed = Summer Story Legend
Available now at Midsummer Books inside @ourmutual_friend

#SummerReadingChallenge #getkidsreading #PhiladelphiaKids #FishtownPhilly #IndependentBookstore

Our Summer Reading challenge is on and
adventure is waiting. The Midsummer Summer Reading Passport is here!

Designed for kids, tweens, and teens, our passports are packed with reading challenges, creative prompts, book-inspired adventures, and opportunities to explore the world through stories.

Choose a Young Readers Passport (those needing reading support or in chapter books) or our Tween & Teen Passport (for independent readers) and complete activities throughout the summer.

This passport is a go-at-your-own-pace adventure.
No weekly check-ins.
No stamps required.
Just a summer full of stories.

We have themes and choose-your-own activities throughout the passport so every reader can have fun with this one. Check off the tasks and quests completed for prizes at the end of the summer!

Prize Levels
10 Challenges Completed = Story Starter
20 Challenges Completed = Adventure Reader
30 Challenges Completed = Master Explorer
40+ Challenges Completed = Summer Story Legend
Available now at Midsummer Books inside @ourmutual_friend

#SummerReadingChallenge #getkidsreading #PhiladelphiaKids #FishtownPhilly #IndependentBookstore

Three New YA Books to Add to Your Summer TBR

Whether you’re craving fantasy intrigue, lakeside summer vibes, or academic rivalries, these new arrivals bring plenty of drama, heart, and unforgettable characters.

What Monstrous Gods by Samunda Hodge
A lush fantasy filled with power, loyalty, and impossible choices.

Lake Life by Tanya Boteju
Summer at the lake means complicated friendships, unexpected romance, and figuring out who you want to be.

We Got the Beat by Jenna Miller
School newspaper drama, academic ambition, and a second-chance sapphic romance that will have you rooting for both girls from page one.

Which would you pick first: fantasy, summer contemporary, or academic drama?

Available now in the shop!

Three New YA Books to Add to Your Summer TBR

Whether you’re craving fantasy intrigue, lakeside summer vibes, or academic rivalries, these new arrivals bring plenty of drama, heart, and unforgettable characters.

What Monstrous Gods by Samunda Hodge
A lush fantasy filled with power, loyalty, and impossible choices.

Lake Life by Tanya Boteju
Summer at the lake means complicated friendships, unexpected romance, and figuring out who you want to be.

We Got the Beat by Jenna Miller
School newspaper drama, academic ambition, and a second-chance sapphic romance that will have you rooting for both girls from page one.

Which would you pick first: fantasy, summer contemporary, or academic drama?

Available now in the shop!

Today is the last day of our spring into bingo! Bring in your cards to collect your prizes!! This activity brought me so much joy, seeing so many kids of different ages happily showing off their reading progress and telling me about their favorite activities 😍
A special thank you to our local partners for making this a huge success @freehand.supply @mr.wish_fishtown @mothershiptoygallery @ramonasusansbakeshop and @kismetbagels!!
We have a fun reading challenge plan for the summer so stay tuned for the details!
#readingchallenge

Today is the last day of our spring into bingo! Bring in your cards to collect your prizes!! This activity brought me so much joy, seeing so many kids of different ages happily showing off their reading progress and telling me about their favorite activities 😍
A special thank you to our local partners for making this a huge success @freehand.supply @mr.wish_fishtown @mothershiptoygallery @ramonasusansbakeshop and @kismetbagels!!
We have a fun reading challenge plan for the summer so stay tuned for the details!
#readingchallenge

Tell me you’re obsessed with Studio Ghibli finally streaming on HBO without telling me you’re obsessed…

Tell me you’re obsessed with Studio Ghibli finally streaming on HBO without telling me you’re obsessed…

Registration is now open for our Mid-Summer of Stories!

Starting in July, we invite young readers, writers, makers, dreamers, adventurers, dragon trainers, mapmakers, and storytellers to join us for drop-in classes that fit your schedule and your budget.

With classes for toddlers, kids, tweens, and teens, we will use books to explore everything from creative writing, hand lettering and worldbuilding to crafts and hands-on maker activities.

Whether your child loves picture books, graphic novels, fantasy quests, creative writing, art projects, or discovering new stories, there's a place for them here.

Programs available for:
• Toddlers & Preschoolers
• Early Elementary Readers
• Middle Grade Readers & Makers
• Teens

Our classes are designed for easy drop-in, although pre-registration is encouraged. Classes will be limited to 15 participants.

Participants receive 20% off a youth book purchase on class days.

🔗 Sign up today for a summer of stories Visit our link in bio or go to https://www.midsummerbooks.com/summer-programming

We are still adding a few more classes so keep an eye on this page! Adult classes will be added shortly

Registration is now open for our Mid-Summer of Stories!

Starting in July, we invite young readers, writers, makers, dreamers, adventurers, dragon trainers, mapmakers, and storytellers to join us for drop-in classes that fit your schedule and your budget.

With classes for toddlers, kids, tweens, and teens, we will use books to explore everything from creative writing, hand lettering and worldbuilding to crafts and hands-on maker activities.

Whether your child loves picture books, graphic novels, fantasy quests, creative writing, art projects, or discovering new stories, there's a place for them here.

Programs available for:
• Toddlers & Preschoolers
• Early Elementary Readers
• Middle Grade Readers & Makers
• Teens

Our classes are designed for easy drop-in, although pre-registration is encouraged. Classes will be limited to 15 participants.

Participants receive 20% off a youth book purchase on class days.

🔗 Sign up today for a summer of stories Visit our link in bio or go to https://www.midsummerbooks.com/summer-programming

We are still adding a few more classes so keep an eye on this page! Adult classes will be added shortly

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@midsummer_books

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