We all know about the dreaded “summer brain drain,” when students forget a lot of what they learned during the previous school year and have to spend the first few months of the new year catching up. You can help your kids turn that brain drain into a brain gain by encouraging reading over the summer. Here are some recent books that will not only capture children’s attention, but also encourage them to read.

“Weird but True USA” (National Geographic Kids)

This fascinating book contains 300 unusual facts about the states that make up the U.S. For example, California scientists modeled a solar cell after a fly’s eye, Jell-O is the official state snack of Utah, and Nutty Narrows Bridge in Longview, Wash., was built so squirrels can safely cross a busy road. Ages 8-12.

“Explorer Academy” (National Geographic)

Kids learn about cracking codes, from the ancient to the most modern, from simple letter replacement (A=Z, Q=L, etc.) and Morse code to semaphores and pigpen grids. Ages 8-12.

“Amelia Earhart Pioneer of the Sky” (James Buckley Jr. and Kelly Tindall)

In a time when women rarely drove cars, Amelia Earhart flew a plane across the Atlantic Ocean — by herself. She also set dozens of other aviation records and is one of the most famous missing persons in history. This graphic novel explores Earhart’s life, accomplishments, and the many theories surrounding her disappearance. Ages 8-12.

“The Very Short, Entirely True History of Unicorns” (Sarah Laskow, Sam Beck)

Unicorns may not be real (or are they?) but they’ve been the subject of speculation and mystery for thousands of years. Illustrated with photos and drawings. Ages 8-12. Under $10.

“This Beach is Loud!” and “Nope. Never. Not for Me!” (Samantha Cotterill)

Samantha Cotterill, who describes herself as being on the autism spectrum, has written a series of books for “wonderfully sensitive kids.” These books are not only great for kids, but they also allow parents to step into their children’s worlds and see things from their point of view. Ages 3-7. About $12.

Armin and Samantha are the authors of the popular parenting blogs: http://www.mrdad.com and http://www.havesippywilltravel.com.