A gentle woodland picture book celebrating the summer solstice, forest friendships, and the wonder of long summer days outdoors. Full Description On the longest day of the year, the forest wakes slowly beneath the golden light of summer. In Summer Solstice Story, a group of woodland friends gathers to celebrate the beauty, warmth, and quiet magic of the season together. Written by Kelsey Gross and illustrated by New York Times bestselling artist Renata Liwska, this lyrical picture book follows Squirrel, Raccoon, Bear, Sparrow, Rabbit, Woodpecker, and Deer as they welcome the summer solstice and share in the gifts of light, friendship, and nature. Filled with peaceful forest scenes and gentle storytelling, this beautifully illustrated companion to Winter encourages children to slow down, notice the rhythms of the natural world, and enjoy meaningful moments outside together. Why Parents Love It Seasonal Nature Theme: Introduces children to the summer solstice through gentle storytelling and woodland imagery. Beautiful Illustrations: Features warm, detailed artwork by Renata Liwska that invites quiet reading and connection. Encourages Outdoor Wonder: Inspires kids to notice changing seasons, wildlife, and the beauty of long summer days. Calm and Cozy Read: Perfect for bedtime, quiet afternoons, and nature-centered family routines. Meaningful Family Reading: Helps families celebrate seasonal traditions and time spent outdoors together. Built for Real Outdoor Use Perfect for summer nature baskets, seasonal homeschool learning, bedtime reading after long days outside, campground story time, and families building outdoor traditions together. This story pairs beautifully with creek walks, evening bike rides, wildflower spotting, and slow summer mornings outdoors. Things to Know Format: Illustrated picture book Theme: Summer solstice, woodland animals, friendship, seasons, and nature Tone: Gentle, lyrical, and calming Companion Title: Companion to Winter Product Details Title: Summer Solstice Story Author: Kelsey Gross Illustrator: Renata Liwska Publisher: Paula Wiseman Books Category: Children's picture book Focus: Nature, seasons, friendship, and outdoor connection Why ODSS Recommends It We love stories that help families slow down and connect with the seasons together. Summer Solstice Story captures the peaceful beauty of summer outdoors and reminds kids to notice the quiet magic found in forests, friendships, and long golden evenings. It’s made for the moments kids remember — barefoot mornings, firefly nights, sunset walks, and staying outside just a little longer.
