And Then Comes Summer, written by Tom Brenner and illustrated by Jaime Kim. Candlewick Press, Random House. 2017. $23.00 ages 3 and up

"WHEN every day is like a
Saturday and porches and lawns and sidewalks are playgrounds, and a familiar jingle interrupts the game ... 

THEN race to be first
in line -

Sorry, this is late. You will want to have it on hand when school winds down next year! Kids will be drooling with anticipatory glee for the carefree days to come. It is a tribute to and an exploration of summer, in all of its many guises.

Choosing only one season of the year allows Tom Brenner to pay close attention to the long and lazy days that hold such allure for school kids and their families. It is memory-making time for many. Who among us does not have stories to share of family trips, growing gardens, picking berries, swimming at the local pool, and welcoming visitors? Summer's many delights are enjoyed by this carefree group of children who spend their time near home, revelling in all there is to do there.

The sounds of lawn mowers, jubilant kids, birdsong, bicycle bells and backyard games pepper the warm, sultry air. Watching the Independence Day Parade, those glorious evening fireworks, hopscotch games, ice cream trucks, and sprinklers creating rainbows fill days with delight. While some days may seem a little tedious, there is always a diversion.

"WHEN the dog days of summer roll around,
and it's so hot you're practically panting,
and not even the sprinklers provide relief ...

THEN it's time to head to the lake.

It's the grand hurrah for this memorable summer, with more adventure in store and more memories to make.

Jaime Kim's acrylic illustrations sparkle with sunshine and light. The rhythmic, carefully chosen language is fully enhanced by detailed, familiar scenes depicting all manner of summer living.