We get it. You’re practicing social distancing (or you should be). The kids are home from school. The libraries are closed. You’re looking for some books the kids can read (or that you can read to them)… preferably with repeat reading value. We’ve got you covered.

In this series, we’ll round up and quickly recommend some books that either (a) come cheap on Amazon and are well worth the price or (b) have ebook versions you can quickly and easily download.

Epic! is the world’s largest digital reading platform for kids, with more than 35,000 books, videos, and audiobooks. It’s used in 90% of U.S. elementary classrooms and reaches more than 10 million kids. Not bad for a platform that was first built in 2013. That’s more than a little impressive.

So, in this time of widespread school – and library – closures, you might want to give Epic! a look. Unlimited access is just $7.99/month, has no ads or in-app purchases, and you can cancel anytime. Check it out.

In addition to their digital platform, Epic! has also begun releasing print books under their Epic! Originals imprint. And two of their newest illustrated chapter book are well worth a look.

Creature Campers (written by Joe McGee and illustrated by Bea Tormo) follows the adventures of Norm, who goes off to Camp Moonlight and is unsure about fitting in. Especially since he’s the only human at a summer camp for monster and creatures. The series kicks off in The Secret of Shadow Lake and continues in Surprise Under the Stars.

Yes, these are books about jackalopes and fairies and yetis, but they’re also about challenging stereotypes, finding and accepting your own individuality, and respecting others for who they are.

And I think we can all use more of that in the world today.

Another series worth checking out is Undersea Mystery Club (written by Courtney Carbone and illustrated by Melanie Demmer). Think of it a bit like Nancy Drew under water… with a mermaid and narwhal in place of Nancy and George. Problem at the Playground finds Violet (the mermaid) investigating the mystery of a disappearing playground, and Trouble with Treasure presents Violet with a locked treasure chest… which she obviously needs to open.

The books celebrate curiosity, imagination, and kindness… again, things we need more of in the world today.