With summer in full swing and school out, it’s time to share my Summer Reading List for kids. Because is there anything better than a good book on a lazy summer afternoon as a kid? Maybe if there’s an ice cream cone, too…
Growing up, summer was a time of freedom. My parents worked during the day, so even though we had chores and babysitting responsibilities (my older sister more than me), summer days were endless.
Of course, boredom could set in. But the perfect way to squelch that feeling was with a hammock and a good book.
While I know my childhood wasn’t as idyllic as all that, at least not every day, this is the memory that clings most to my mind from those hot summer days. And those are the memories I wanted to help other children make as I compiled this Summer Reading List.
Whether it’s a family read-aloud or a quiet reading time in their own areas, books are something that my kids enjoy. With ages ranging from 4-11 right now though, it can sometimes be a challenge to find books that they all can listen to. So, when I choose a family read-aloud book, I look for something interesting enough to hold all of their attentions (and hedge my bets with some blocks and coloring stuff for the littles).
Some notes about this summer reading list
This summer reading list can be read by older elementary school kids on their own, or by the whole family out loud. This is the perfect time to dig into long series and bigger books, explore interests, and try new things.
And while it would be tempting to make this list super long and exhaustive, the fact is that summer is finite. So I picked enough that you can work through them over the summer at no particular rush. After all, summer is all about lazing and relaxing, right? And that’s the best way to make memories, too.
I hope you’ll enjoy the selections for this Summer Reading List. Leave me a comment or tag me on social media with any additional suggestions you have for great summer reads for kids!
Summer Reading List for Kids
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Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
This charming tale of a little girl and her extraordinary pig, and the friends he makes on the farm, will entertain any age.
Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder
The first book of the Little House series, detailing pioneer life in the woods of Wisconsin, is perfect for hot summer days.
A Year Down Yonder by Richard Peck
Actually the sequel to A Long Way from Chicago, this one slightly edged out the first as our favorite. Your kids will delight in the story of Mary Alice and her wild summers at her Grandma’s.
Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
Strong-willed Ella makes for some fun and exciting summer reading as she sets out to break the curse she was given at birth – absolute obedience.
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
You’ll love this book about siblings who run off to live at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and land up solving a mystery during their adventure.
Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
The first in the series, this books is full of swashbuckling fun as Peter and his friends set sail for dangerous adventures with mysterious cargo on board. This is a telling of the early days of Peter Pan.
Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink
Summer reading should be all about adventure and freedom. This book delivers with Caddie, who is a free-spirit and tomboy who may never become the lady her mother wants her to be.
The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes
This tale of a poor Polish girl and how her classmates come to see her once she’s gone will give your kids some food for thought.
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
Another great book that will entertain even as it teaches the importance of looking below the surface and the trials and rewards of real friendship.
Mr. Poppers Penguins by Florence and Richard Atwater
This is such a lovable story of a man who dreams of adventuring to the South Pole and soon becomes the owner of a dozen penguins. Now what should he do?
The Lightning Thief: Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan
Start with the first book following the tales of Percy, a boy who can’t avoid trouble and is sent on a mission by Zeus himself. This series is especially great for adventure lovers who enjoy Greek mythology.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
Dig into this fun and exciting series, starting with Harry’s first year at Hogwarts. It abounds with themes of courage, perseverance, and friendship.
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
While technically not the first in the Narnia series (that would be The Magician’s Nephew), this can also work as a starting point for this classic series beloved by generations.
A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett
This story of a rich girl who is left penniless and under the care of a cruel boarding school mistress, is always a favorite. Friendship and character win out in the end.
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
Summer days can be whiled away in Middle Earth with this epic tale that started it all. Your kids will love delving into each of the books in this series.
Summer reading is one of my favorite things to do (right behind winter reading with hot tea and candles!) and sharing that with my kids is such a joy. I hope you and your family enjoys these wonderful books as much as we do.
Happy summer reading!
Looking for some more recommendations for summer reading? Check out these suggestions:
20 Best Books for 2nd Grade Boys & Girls
10 Best Books for 3rd Grade Boys
The Best Books for 4th Grade Girls
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Thanks for these reading lists!!! I work at a public library and like to compile a list of reading recommendations for teens, adults, and children. It’s always so nice to see and find book lists.
I’m so glad you’ll find it useful! I love a good book list, too, as recommendations have pointed me in the direction of a lot of great authors and series.