Hi Reader,

Last time I popped into your inbox, I shared a fun summer reading challenge inspired by a tradition my daughter loved as a child: the library’s annual summer reading program.

This summer, we’re putting a thoughtful twist on that familiar challenge by exploring the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through children’s literature.

If you’re new to the challenge, here’s the idea:

Read 17 books this summer…

…one connected to each of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to create a better future for people and the planet. They address important topics like ending hunger, protecting our oceans, ensuring quality education, reducing inequalities, and taking climate action.

To help your learners track their progress, I’ve created a free, printable Sustainable Development Goals coloring poster (available in both English and Spanish!). Each time your child reads a book connected to a goal, they can color in that section of the poster.

Download the free poster here:

Need book ideas? I’ve also curated free children’s picture book lists for each of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals to make planning your summer reading simple.

Once you’ve printed your poster, you can tackle the challenge however you’d like! Read the books in order from Goals 1-17, or jump between goals based on your child’s interests or what you discover at the library. There are no rules—just meaningful stories and great conversations.

Book Highlight of the Week: José Feeds the World

Looking for a place to start? This week’s featured title is José Feeds the World, a powerful picture book that introduces readers to Michelin-starred chef and humanitarian José Andrés.

The book shares how José and his organization, World Central Kitchen, respond to natural disasters and humanitarian crises by providing fresh meals to people facing hunger around the world. Young readers will discover that one person truly can make a difference.

This inspiring story beautifully supports Sustainable Development Goal #2: No Hunger and encourages children to think about how they can take action in their own communities.

You can read my full review and discover extension activities here:

Summer is the perfect time to slow down, visit the library, and share meaningful stories together. Download the poster, pick out a few books, and start your family’s sustainable summer reading adventure today.

And don’t forget—I would love to see what your learners are reading! Reply to this email with photos of your library haul, favorite books, or completed coloring posters. I can’t wait to celebrate your progress!

— Jessica

Founder of Thoughtfully Sustainable & Raising Global Kidizens​
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P.S. Below is the first ad sponsorship I’ve accepted in my newsletter, The reason I said “yes” to the ad is because my kids’ school uses the platform and after sitting alongside my son as he completed assignments, I was genuinely impressed. I appreciated that IXL wasn’t heavily gamified or filled with distractions. Instead, it offers straightforward practice with immediate feedback and gradually increasing difficulty—think digital flash cards with a purpose. It’s become a helpful way for my kids to build confidence and strengthen skills at their own pace. Thank you in advance if you give it a click!

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