Please, Baby, Please by Spike Lee & Tonya Lewis Lee

This read aloud is perfect for rising kindergarteners. The rhythm pulls kids into the fun, light story that is all about a silly day together. 

Buy it: Please Baby Please 

Don’t Touch My Hair! by Sharee Miller

This book about setting personal boundaries addresses an important topic for kid and gives kids the words they need in a way that actually sticks. It is simple, but it leads to really good conversations and helps build respect.

Buy it: Don’t Touch My Hair 

What I Like About Me! by Allia Zobel-Nolan

Summer is all about learning what kids are good at! This book gets kids talking about what makes them special without it feeling forced. I usually follow it up with a quick writing or drawing activity and they are so into it.

Buy it: What I Like about Me!

Jada Jones by Kelly Starling Lyons

This series is perfect for students who are starting to move into early chapter books but still need support. Jada is such a relatable character, and I like that it builds confidence while also bringing in STEM topics in a really natural way. It is a great next step for kids who are ready for a little more than picture books.

Buy it: Jada Jones books

Princess Truly by Kelly Greenawalt

This is such a fun series for building confidence and imagination. The stories are engaging without being too difficult, which makes them perfect for summer reading. I also love the representation and how it encourages kids to see themselves as capable of anything.

Buy it: Princess Truly #1 

It’s My Body! by Elise Gravel

This book perfectly blends humor with the seriousness of the topic. This comic-style picture book celebrates all bodies, teaches kids about consent, and empowers kids to be kind and loving to their body.

Buy it: It’s My Body

Serafina Makes Waves by Matthew Burgess

The perfect read to encourage kids to try new things and embrace the unknown this summer. Serafina insists that she will never be forced into swim class, and refuses to try until a friend needs her help.  Serafina is full of dramatic flair and the illustrations are expressive and hilarious.

Buy it: Serafina Makes Waves 

Shrinking Violet by Laurel Snyder

The most stunning SEL book that encourages kids to face their fears. Violet literally shrinks when she is afraid, but it isn’t until her friend need her help that she finds the courage to grow. The illustrations are enchanting and the story reads like a modern day fairytale.

Buy it: Shrinking Violet

On Our Bikes by Dan Saks

This one will inspire kids to hop on their bikes and spend their summer days outdoors, exploring and adventuring with their family and friends. Love the diverse representation and how bikers of all ages are included. 

Buy it: On Our Bikes 

Watermelon Pool by Bonsoir Lune

This is the most refreshing read for a hot summer day! Translated from Korean, this story of pure imagination features a village spending a sweltering summer day diving into a giant watermelon pool and sliding down the watermelon rind.

Buy it: Watermelon Pool 

Now You Know Your ABCs (Or do you?) by Casper Salmon

This ABC book starts well enough, but soon takes a dark turn when a wolf chases readers through the alphabet. This is a fun read aloud to prepare incoming kindergarteners for the coming year. 

Buy it: Now I Know My ABCs (or Do You?)

Big Brown Bear’s Cave by Yuval Zommer

A child starts their day by exploring the outdoors in the morning, something that kids can do in the summer when the school bus isn’t on the way. 

Buy it: Good Morning Morning 

Are We There Yet? by Stacy McAnulty

This story of Dr. Horatio Nelson Jackson, the first person to try to drive a “horseless carriage” across the country in 1903 has many summer access points for kids. The great story, the road trip, travel, seeing America by car … pick your focus and get reading!

Buy it: Are We There Yet?

Boxitects by Kim Smith

Boxitect. Blanketeer. Spaghetti-tect. Kids will want to be all of them! After you read, use the cardboard box creation inspiration to build some castles of your own.

Buy it: Boxitects

Don’t Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson

Readers learn all about fish in this hilarious book. It’s a great summer read because kids can read it (or listen to it) again and again. 

Buy it: Don’t Trust Fish

Downpour: Splish! Splash! Ker-splash! By Yuko Chnari

This book about a summer rain uses onomatopoeia and illustration to put kids right in the middle of that unique summer afternoon experience.

Buy it:  Downpour: Splish Splash KerSplash!

Every Monday Mabel by Jashar Awan

In this Caldecott honor book, Mabel is excited for her favorite thing on Monday, the best day of the week. It’s a celebration of appreciating the ordinary.

Buy it: Good Morning Mabel

Fireworks by Matthew Burgess

In this Caldecott Medal book, fireworks come alive and readers can experience the joy of a hot summer city day. 

Buy it: Fireworks

Forts by Katie Venit

Explore what makes forts, from cardboard houses to forts built in the woods, just right. Then, go build one of your own. 

Buy it: Forts

My Papi Has a Motorcycle by Isabel Quintero

This fast-paced book about a father and daughter enjoying a spin around their diverse neighborhood depicts lots of summer fun (Popsicles, the wind in your hair …) in a setting that kids can connect with.

Buy it: My Papi Has a Motorcycle

Flashlight Night by Matt Forrest Esenwine

One of the best parts of summer is staying up late! The nighttime adventure these children have will inspire students to click on their own flashlights—and their imaginations—and head out into the dark.

Buy it: Flashlight Night

Floaty by John Himmelman

When someone leaves a mysterious basket on grouchy Mr. Raisin’s doorstep, the last thing he expects to be inside is a dog—especially one that floats! What will Mr. Raisin do when Floaty floats away? This is the perfect lighthearted read-aloud for your 1st grade summer reading list.

Buy it: Floaty

Hooray for Hat! by Brian Won

There’s a pervasive dark cloud of grumpiness among the animal friends, until they start gifting hats to one another. (Also check out follow-ups Hooray for Books! and Hooray for Today!)

Buy it: Hooray for Hat!

Bhangra Boogie by Hena Khan

Talia wants to dance as gracefully as the dancers at the mehndi, but can she overcome her shyness to get up and boogie? A wonderful story that exposes kids to a new form of dance and celebrates being brave.

Buy it: Bhangra Boogie

How Sweet the Sound by Kwame Alexander

This colorful picture book takes readers through the rhythm of African American culture, a great read for the Fourth of July. 

Buy it: How Sweet the Sound 

The Magician’s Secret by Zachary Hyman

Sleepovers at Grandpa’s are a highlight of many kids’ summers. When your grandfather is a retired magician with a magic story chest in his attic, though? Well, that’s a guaranteed adventure.

Buy it: The Magician’s Secret

How to Draw a Tree by David LaRochelle

This book starts with simple illustrations about how to draw a tree and expands to teach kids how to slow down and observe nature, something they’ll have a lot of time to do in summer. 

Buy it: How to Draw a Tree

National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Where by Jill Esbaum

This medley of explanations will answer curious kids’ questions about the tallest mountains, the biggest rivers, and even fun facts like where ice cream was invented. Use it to take a vacation when you can’t leave home!

Buy it: National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Where

I Like Hoops by Juwanda Ford

This book is about a close game of basketball. Students who play basketball will like reading about their game, and students who don’t will read it for the suspense–who will win!

Buy it: I like Hoops

When Alexander Graced the Table by Alexander Smalls

Alexander is preparing a dish for his family’s dinner. A great book to read as a family during summer when kids have time to dig into new skills, like cooking. 

Buy it: When Alexander Graced the Table 

So Many Years by Anne Wynter

This nonfiction book gently handles the history of slavery through resilient Juneteenth celebrations that continue today. 

Buy it: So Many Years

Fierce Aunties! by Laurel Goodluck

A celebration of all things Auntie, and a way to talk about visiting family this summer.

Buy it: Fierce Aunties!

Sisters & Champions by Howard Bryant

This story of the sisters that redefined expectations of what kids from a tough Los Angeles neighborhood can achieve is a summer inspiration that’s a perfect addition to your elementary summer reading list. Floyd Cooper’s illustrations are a delight.

Buy it: Sisters & Champions: The True Story of Venus and Serena Williams

Take a Hike, Miles and Spike! by Travis Foster and Ethan Long

Two oblivious dogs pack for an outdoor adventure but have to revise their plans when the other animals call them out for being selfish. Catchy rhymes and Ethan Long’s signature, super-fun illustrations make this silly story a guaranteed hit for your kindergarten summer reading list.

Buy it: Take a Hike, Miles and Spike!

My Pollinator Garden

This book has information about how pollinators help plants grow. It’s a great read for kids who want to grow their own gardens over the summer. 

Buy it: My Pollinator Garden

What if You Had an Animal Tail? by Sandra Markle

A perfect pairing for a summer outing to the zoo, this fun series will have kids laughing as they learn about animal adaptations and the human body. This one focuses on tails; read the others to learn about animal ears, hair, and more.

Buy it: What if You Had an Animal Tail?

Owl Diaries by Rebecca Elliott

The Owl Diaries is a great series for early readers, it’s cute, fun, and kids can really get into the owl’s adventures. 

Buy it: The Owl Diaries: Eva Saves the Day 

Agent Moose by Mo O’Hara

Folks keep going missing on the South Shore in this graphic novel. No worries though—Agent Moose and his sidekick Owlfred are on the case!

Buy it: Agent Moose

Arlo & Pips: King of the Birds by Elise Gravel

Arlo the crow is smart, and he knows it. Fortunately, his little friend Pips isn’t afraid to put him in his place! This funny graphic novel includes plenty of true facts about crows mixed in with the story and is a fantastic book to put on your 1st or 2nd grade summer reading list.

Buy it: Arlo & Pips: King of the Birds

Baloney and Friends by Greg Pizzoli

Kids will get a kick out of reading about the adventures of Baloney and his friends Peanut, Bizz, and Krabbit. Plus, they can follow the tutorial at the end of the book to learn how to draw comics of their own.

Buy it: Baloney and Friends

Bunbun & Bonbon: Fancy Friends by Jess Keating

Kids who like Frog and Toad will love Earl and Worm, another unlikely friendship that is sweet and silly.

Buy it: Earl and Worm

Donut Feed the Squirrels by Mika Song

Norma and Belly are hungry squirrels who desperately want a nut—a donut! They’re foiled at every turn, though, and their silly adventure will keep kids giggling throughout this early-reader graphic novel.

Buy it: Donut Feed the Squirrels

School for Magical Monsters: Rise of Pegasus by Joan Holub & Suzanne Williams

In this first of the series, Pegasus is new at school. Everyone else has their own secret power, but what is his? A great series for kids who love unicorns and fantasy.

Buy it: Rise of Pegasus

Earth’s Incredible Places: Grand Canyon by Susan Lamb and Sean Lewis

Headed to the Grand Canyon this summer? Learn all about the geology, wildlife, and natural history of one of the world’s most majestic places. Readers will also discover the deep connection indigenous people have had to this land for centuries.

Buy it: Earth’s Incredible Places: Grand Canyon

Mooncakes Mean Family by Benson Shum

Jade and Crystal love the Mooncake festival and all the tasty treats that come with it. Young readers will love the cute characters and learning more about a traditional festival.

Buy it: Mooncakes Mean Family

InvestiGators by John Patrick Green

Welcome to the underground (literally!) world of Special Undercover Investigation Teams (S.U.I.T.). Gator agents Mango and Brash travel the sewers by toilet as they solve cases in this hilarious graphic novel for young readers.

Buy it: InvestiGators

I Survived the California Wildfires of 2018 by Lauren Tarshis

The I Survived series (chapter books and graphic novels) are great reads for summer as kids can really get into reading one book after the other. The latest I Survived adventure is about the 2018 California wildfires. 

Buy it: I Survived the California Wildfires

Jo Jo Makoons: The Used-to-Be Best Friend by Dawn Quigley

Jo Jo Makoons lives on an Ojibwe reservation with her family, where her #1 best friend is her cat, Mimi. But her #1 human friend, Fern, doesn’t seem to want to be friends anymore. What will Jo Jo Makoons do?

Buy it: Jo Jo Makoons: The Used-to-Be Best Friend

Meet Yasmin! by Saadia Faruqi

Yasmin is a sassy 2nd grader from a Pakistani American family. She tackles real-life challenges with spirit and imagination in a book filled with winning illustrations that bring the stories to life.

Buy it: Meet Yasmin!

Pea, Bee, & Jay: Stuck Together by Brian “Smitty” Smith

Pea loves to roll and can’t resist a dare to roll right off the farm where he lives. But an unexpected storm sends him farther than he expected. Will his new friends Bee and Jay be able to help him find his way back home?

Buy it: Pea, Bee, & Jay: Stuck Together

Pick Your Own Quest: Dragon vs. Unicorn by Connor Hoover

The Pick Your Own Quest series is what summer reading dreams are made of! Reminiscent of the beloved Choose Your Own Adventure books of the 1980s, these stories are different each time you read them. Find them all here.

Buy it: Pick Your Own Quest: Dragon vs. Unicorn

Pizza and Taco: Who’s the Best? by Stephen Shaskan

What’s better, pizza or tacos? That’s the big question in this graphic novel for emergent readers—except Pizza and Taco have come to life!

Buy it: Pizza and Taco

Orris and Timble: Lost and Found by Kate DiCamillo

Orris and Timble made their debut on previous summer reading lists, and they’re back with another sweet modern fable about an owl and a mouse. 

Buy it: Orris and Timble Lost and Found 

Polly Diamond and the Magic Book by Alice Kuipers and Diana Toledano

When Polly discovers that a magic book that appeared on her doorstep can make everything she writes actually happen, she wastes no time trying it out—with entertaining results. If you enjoy this one, be sure to check out the sequel, Polly Diamond and the Super Stunning Spectacular School Fair.

Buy it: Polly Diamond and the Magic Book

Power Forward by Hena Khan

Summer is the perfect time to get hooked on a new sports fiction series. This introduction to the Chasing the Dream series introduces Zayd Saleem, a likable 4th grader who’s also a basketball fanatic.

Buy it: Power Forward

Scaredy Bat and the Missing Jellyfish by Marina J. Bowman

Mystery-loving kids will fall in love with Scaredy Bat. This detective series is filled with colorful graphics to help younger readers follow along as a child vampire attempts to solve mysteries with her pals. Try this one for an elementary summer reading list.

Buy: Scaredy Bat and the Missing Jellyfish

Search for a Giant Squid (Pick Your Path) by Amy Seto Forrester and Andy Chou Musser

This unique new STEM series for early readers lets kids choose their own adventure in the real world. Reluctant readers who enjoy nature will return to this one again and again.

Buy it: Search for a Giant Squid (Pick Your Path)

She Persisted: Maria Tallchief by Christine Day

Looking for inspiring stories of strong women? The She Persisted series is full of them. In this one, young readers learn about America’s first major prima ballerina, who was also a member of the Osage Nation.

Buy it: She Persisted: Maria Tallchief

Balto by Emma Carlson Berne

An adventure story about dogsledding has a lot of connection points for students—animals, drama, rescue. Kids can start with Balto then read the rest of the Animals to the Rescue series.

Buy it: Balto

West Meadows Detectives: The Case of Maker Mischief by Liam O’Donnell

This title is the second in a series starring Myron, a young sleuth who speaks frankly and positively about his autism. We love how his quirks play off those of his sidekicks as they work together to find a classmate’s stolen robot. The series is fantastic for a 3rd grade summer reading list.

Buy it: West Meadows Detectives: The Case of Maker Mischief

Worm and Caterpillar Are Friends by Kaz Windness

These best friends have always loved being so similar. But it turns out they’re actually pretty different—and that’s OK. We love this one for a lighthearted addition to a 2nd grade summer reading list.

Buy it: Worm and Caterpillar Are Friends

Monster Locker by Jorge Aguirre and Andrés Vera Martínez

When Pablo Ortiz discovers an ancient Aztec warrior in the basement of his school, he’s not the person to fight it. But he rises to the occasion. Yes, this story takes place in school, but the premise and action are so engaging kids won’t mind spending some of their summer in school.

Buy it: Monster Locker

The Trouble with Heroes by Kate Messner

Finn Connelly doesn’t think climbing the Adirondack mountains is fun, but he’s been sentneced to hike the whole range. We love this for how Messner captures Finn’s emotional journey through his poetry and letters. 

Buy it: The Trouble with Heroes   

Black Star by Kwame Alexander

In this second book in the Door of No Return trilogy, the main character finds herself set on being the first female baseball player in her town, but she runs into complications when she has to deal with conflict in her segregated town.

Buy it: Black Star

Big Tree by Brian Selznick

Part fantasy, part nature story, and entirely mesmerizing, this is one of those books that will enchant nature lovers. Two sycamore tree seeds come alive as they tell their tale of adventure among dinosaurs, volcanoes, and other dangers. This book is unlike anything else kids have read, and it deserves a spot on the best middle school summer reading list.

Buy it: Big Tree

Blended by Sharon M. Draper

A biracial tween must split time equally living with each of her divorced parents (who are both now dating other people and have vastly different income levels). Many kids will see their own lives reflected in her lifestyle-switching tale. We love this one for a 6th grade summer reading list.

Buy it: Blended

Book Scavenger by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman

The Book Scavenger series mystery tales all begin with clues found on Book Scavenger, a fictional geocaching-style game where participants hide books in public places and reveal the locations through encoded clues. Emily and James embark on three rollicking, heart-thumping adventures in and around San Francisco. Don’t be surprised if kids want to set up their own scavenger adventures after they read!

Buy it: Book Scavenger

The Creature of the Pines (The Unicorn Rescue Society) by Adam Gidwitz

A society for caring for mythical creatures is a surefire hook, but this series by a talented middle grade author backs up its hype with compelling characters and clever plot twists. Love it? There are five more books in the series.

Buy it: The Creature of the Pines (The Unicorn Rescue Society)

The Dreamatics by Michelle Cuevas

What if your dreams were actually lavish productions put on by special theaters, just for you? Discover the Lunarian and its troupe, the Dreamatics, who stage Luna’s dreams every night. When Luna’s real life takes a turn for the worse, the Lunarian is taken over by Bad Dreams, and the Dreamatics must find a way to save it and make Luna’s dreams sweet again.

Buy it: The Dreamatics

Ellie, Engineer by Jackson Pearce

Friends, creativity, and girl-powered STEM: A story about a neighborhood building project is a perfect summer read, especially when led by Ellie, armed with her trusty tool belt. There are two more Ellie books to enjoy too.

Buy it: Ellie, Engineer

Funny Girl: Funniest. Stories. Ever. edited by Betsy Bird

What do you get when 25 of today’s funniest women children’s book writers combine their stories together in one book? A hilarious collection that will make you laugh until you cry! Bonus: A portion of the proceeds from this book goes to support WriteGirl, a nonprofit whose mission is to empower girls by promoting creativity and self-expression.

Buy it: Funny Girl: Funniest. Stories. Ever.

Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen! by Sarah Kapit

Vivy Cohen has wanted to be a baseball pitcher ever since she met pro ballplayer VJ Capello. But things aren’t so simple for Vivy: She is autistic, and her mom says she can’t play baseball because she’s a girl. That doesn’t stop Vivy from being invited to join a Little League team. And when Vivy writes a letter to VJ, she’s surprised to get a reply.

Buy it: Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen!

The Queen Bees of Tybee County by Kyle Casey Chu

A joyful summer novel; Derrick Chan’s basketball plans fall through and he spends his summer with his grandmother in Georgia. As summer progresses, he makes new friends, find self-expression, and learns more about his late mother. 

Buy it: The Queen Bees of Tybee County

The Fairy Tale Fan Club by Richard Ayoade

What if you could write to a fairy tale character … and they wrote back? This story explores that premise, a great read for kids who already know all about fairy tales and can bring that knowledge to this clever, humorous story.

Buy it: The Fairy Tale Fan Club

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

This classic story has been turned into a graphic novel that is the perfect summer read. It’s an imagining of what might happen if we could live forever and is a philosophical read for middle schoolers. 

Buy it: Tuck Everlasting  

Puppet by David Almond

Written in the style of Pinocchio, the last puppet starts talking and interacting with the puppet maker and a magical story ensues. A great story for imaginative kids who like fairy tales and magic.

Buy it: Puppet

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

This classic survival novel now has four sequels, making up Brian’s Saga. Hatchet is the one that started it all: Thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson is traveling by single-engine plane to visit his father when the plane crashes, killing the pilot. Brian is alone in the Canadian wilderness with nothing but his clothing, a tattered windbreaker, and the hatchet his mother gave him as a present.

Buy it: Hatchet (Brian’s Saga)

Hide and Seeker by Daka Hermon

Beat the summer heat by sending chills down your spine! In this thriller, a group of tweens is drawn into waking versions of their own nightmares in a spooky game of hide-and-seek. It’s the perfect middle school summer reading list pick for reluctant readers.

Buy it: Hide and Seeker

Home Sweet Motel (Welcome to Wonderland #1) by Chris Grabenstein

In this offering from a favorite middle grade author, P.T. Wilkie and his friend Gloria try to save his family’s Wonderland motel—a kid’s paradise—from financial ruin. Readers will be cheering them on as they laugh at P.T.’s tendency to “embellish” stories, the pair’s crazy moneymaking strategies, and their wild attempts to solve an unexpected mystery that crops up. Read more of their adventures in the rest of the Welcome to Wonderland series.

Buy it: Home Sweet Motel

Hummingbird by Natalie Lloyd

Be inspired by the story of Olive, who’s determined not to let brittle bone disease stand in the way of her dreams. As she searches for a fabled wish-granting hummingbird, she makes friends and learns more about herself too.

Buy it: Hummingbird

The Many Meanings of Meilan by Andrea Wang

At Meilan’s new school, the principal decides she should go by the name Melanie to make it easier for the other students to pronounce. This sets Meilan off on a journey to find out more about her own name—and herself.

Buy it: The Many Meanings of Meilan

The Mother-Daughter Book Club by Heather Vogel Frederick

Imagine your mom got together with a group of other moms and decided to form a book club, and you and your middle school acquaintances have no choice but to join. A group reading of Little Women makes unlikely friends out of the four girls, leading to a whole Mother-Daughter Book Club series.

Buy it: The Mother-Daughter Book Club

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

In the summer of 1968, the Gaither sisters travel from Brooklyn to Oakland, California, to spend a few months with their mother. Much to their surprise, their mother isn’t exactly excited to see them and instead wants them to spend the summer at a Black Panther camp. This book is a perennial summer reading list title!

Buy it: One Crazy Summer

The Orphan Band of Springdale by Anne Nesbet

Kids who love historical fiction will enjoy this World War II story of life on the home front. Eleven-year-old Gusta moves from New York City to live with her grandmother in Maine, where there’s plenty of small-town drama. It’s a terrific option for a 7th grade summer reading list.

Buy it: The Orphan Band of Springdale

The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson

A puzzling letter sends Candice on a summer quest to find treasure and clear her grandmother’s name. Reviewers compare this historical mystery to Ellen Raskin’s classic The Westing Game.

Buy it: The Parker Inheritance

I’m a Dumbo Octopus! by Anne Lambelet

In this nonfiction graphic novel about cephalopods, kids learn all about these unique animals and their importance. This book is also a great way to get more reluctant readers into a new genre. 

Buy it: I’m a Dumbo Octopus!

Premeditated Myrtle by Elizabeth C. Bunce

The first book of the Myrtle Hardcastle Mysteries is a clever caper about a budding tween criminologist attempting to solve a local murder.

Buy it: Premeditated Myrtle

Uprooted by Ruth Chan

In this memoir about moving to Hong Kong, Ruth feels alone and out of place until she learns stories about her family that help her realize she can thrive through hard times.

Buy it: Uprooted

The Rhythm of Time by Questlove with S.A. Cosby

This smart time-travel tale carries kids back to Philadelphia in the 1990s. It’s not all that far back into the past, but things are just different enough to give Rahim and Kasia some serious adventures. This book is a great pick for a summer reading list for 5th or 6th grade.

Buy it: The Rhythm of Time

Growing Home by Beth Ferry

At Number 3 Ramshorn Drive, an extroverted houseplant (Ivy) and a grumpy goldfish (Toasty) live with their owners. TIt’s an imaginative, pun-ny, surprising adventure. 

Buy it: Growing Home 

The Season of Styx Malone by Kekla Magoon

Brothers Bobby Gene and Caleb were minding their own business in their small Indiana town when Styx Malone rolled in. Styx is older and wiser and teaches the boys how to pull off an escalator trade, getting better and better stuff until they get something incredible. This book is full of hilarious antics and sweet brotherly relationships.

Buy it: The Season of Styx Malone

Who Discovered How to Breathe Underwater? Jacque Cousteau by Ned Wolfe

This graphic novel about Jacques Cousteau describes how he created the first scuba diving suit. It’s just one of many Who HQ graphic novels. 

Buy it: Who Discovered How to Breathe Underwater? Jacques Cousteau 

The Sky at Our Feet by Nadia Hashimi

Summer is for compelling page-turners and characters that move you. Everything changes for Jason when he finds out that his Afghan mother, whom he thought was deported, is living illegally in the United States.

Buy it: The Sky at Our Feet

Rebellion 1776 by Laurie Halse Anderson

In this latest historical novel by beloved author Laurie Halse Anderson, it’s the spring of 1776 and 13-year-old Elsbeth Culpepper finds herself in the middle of the Seige of Boston and the smallpox epidemic.

Buy it: Rebellion 1776

Busted by Dan Gemeinhart

Oscar Aberdeen lives with his grandfather in the Sunny Days retirement community. When he’s forced to help Jimmy DeLuca, another nursing home resident, complete his bucket list, adventure ensues. This is a fun read, pure and simple. 

Buy it: Busted 

Eowulf of Monsters & Middle School by Mike Cavallaro

This action-packed graphic novel combines middle school humor with adventure and legend references, like Eowulf, a character descended from the legendary Beowulf. A great book for kids who like fantasy and games like D&D.

Buy it: Eowulf

West of the Sea by Stephanie Willing

A budding paleontologist has to figure out what happened to her missing mom in this suspenseful story that combines road trips, mythology, and dinosaurs.

Buy it: West of the Sea

Oliver’s Great Big Universe by Jorge Cham

Kids who like Big Nate and Diary of a Wimpy Kid will love Oliver’s world. It’s funny middle-school humor from bestselling comic Jorge Cham.

Buy it: Oliver’s Great Big Universe

Black Girl Power, edited by Leah Johnson

In this collection of 15 stories by Black authors, readers experience so many ways to be a strong, creative Black girl. While this book is especially affirming for Black girls, it’s a great read for any middle schoolers as all kids can find connection with the characters in these stories.

Buy it: Black Girl Power

All Boys Aren’t Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto by George M. Johnson

The author explores the intersectionality of being male, a person of color, and queer in contemporary society. It’s one of our favorite #OwnVoices nonfiction books.

Buy it: All Boys Aren’t Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto

All of This Is True by Lygia Day Peñaflor

When four teens meet their favorite novelist, they’re thrilled at their new friendship. But then their deepest secrets appear in her next book, and the consequences are dire. This contemporary YA mystery is also available in Spanish—ideal for bilingual teens looking for a suspense-filled narrative in their native language.

Buy it: All of This Is True

Donut Summer by Anita Kelly

Penny has a summer job at a donut shop, where a coworker, Mateo, ends up being her perfect match. A great enemies-to-lovers summer read. 

Buy it: Donut Summer

As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh

In war-torn Syria, Salama is determined to help her family escape before her sister-in-law gives birth. The challenge is so great that her fear manifests itself in an imaginary companion who’s constantly telling her she needs to get out. As she desperately tries to leave Syria behind, fate steps in and changes her views of everything happening around her. Add this book to your summer reading list for high schoolers.

Buy it: As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow

Fatima Tate Takes the Cake by Khadijah VanBrakle

Fatima lives a boring life in Albuquerque until she meets Raheem, a university student. She keeps their relationship a secret until her parents end up trying to arrange their marriage.

The Best Lies by Sarah Lyu

When her best friend, Elise, shoots Remy’s boyfriend, Jack, Remy is left to question the truth about what happened. Obsession is the driving force behind this fast-paced plot surrounding two besties’ warped connection.

Buy it: The Best Lies

On the Bright Side by Anna Sortino

Ellie’s deaf boarding school shut down, forcing her to return to public school. Being back in a public school isn’t easy, and then she meets Jackson. This story about building community through resilience will linger in readers’ minds.

Buy it: On the Bright Side

Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins

Whether kids are coming to the Hunger Games for the first time or they’re already fans, this prequel to Katniss’s story is an engrossing summer read. We love it because it can either introduce readers to new characters, or reunite them with familiar ones. 

Buy it: Sunrise on the Reaping 

The Do-Over by Lynn Painter

Light romances are perfect for high school summer reading lists. This one is a cross between the movie Groundhog Day and a teen romance. After a disastrous Valentine’s Day with a cheating boyfriend, Emilie wakes up living the same day over and over again. Maybe the enigmatic Nick can help her find her way back to reality.

Buy it: The Do-Over

Ghost Wood Song by Erica Waters

A teen fiddler uses her secret ability to summon ghosts from their graves in order to help her brother. With an LGBTQ+ romance as a subplot, this high school summer reading list pick is fantastic for readers intrigued by the supernatural.

Buy it: Ghost Wood Song

Gilded by Marissa Meyer

Fairy tales are for little kids, right? Not this dark retelling of Rumpelstiltskin! Magic and mystery meet romance in this gripping tale.

Buy it: Gilded

The Dead of Summer by Ryan La Sala

Ollie and his mom return to Anchor’s Mercy, ME just as a new illness starts to spread. This thriller uses interview transcripts, drawings, and narration to tell the story. 

Buy it: The Dead of Summer 

Coffeeshop in an Alternate Universe

Brenda has a plan for her life which is upended when she meets Kat in a coffeeshop that’s actually a magical universe. This fun, cozy fantasy is best read in a hammock. 

Buy it: Coffeeshop in an Alternate Universe 

If These Wings Could Fly by Kyrie McCauley

Tens of thousands of crows have invaded Auburn, Pennsylvania. It’s an issue for everyone in town except 17-year-old Leighton Barnes. For Leighton, it’s no stranger than her house, which inexplicably repairs itself every time her father loses his temper and breaks things. Leighton’s senior year is filled with shades of the past and anticipation of the future, all while dealing with the confusing events of the present.

Buy it: If These Wings Could Fly

Silent Sister by Megan Davidhizar

A package arrives at Chloe’s door that inspires her to investigate the case of two teens who went missing more than 80 years before. A mystery with drama and history. 

Buy it: Under the Same Stars

Sky’s End by Marc J. Gregson

Fantasy lovers will dive into this new saga of a teen who must battle powerful sky serpents in order to reunite his family. Full of political intrigue, family dynamics, and incredible adventure, this page-turner will have readers eagerly awaiting the promised sequel.

Buy it: Sky’s End

The Sound of Stars by Alechia Dow

Janelle “Ellie” Baker is a teen rebel stuck in an alien-controlled quadrant of New York City in this sci-fi adventure about living—and falling in love—on an Earth that humans no longer control.

Buy it: The Sound of Stars

Ida, in Love and in Trouble by Veronica Chambers

In this historical novel, a fictionalized Ida B. Wells is navigating social parties and society prejudices while fighting for civil rights. It’s a great book for Bridgerton fans.

Buy it: Ida, in Love and in Trouble

This Book Won’t Burn by Samira Ahmed

At the end of her senior year, Noor’s family moves from Chicago to a rural area where they definitely stand out as Indian American and Muslim. Noor plans to just ride out her final high school days, but when she learns the school district has recently banned over 500 books, mostly by marginalized authors, she instead decides to take action. Now she and her family are the target of everything from racial slurs to threats and violence, and Noor has to choose whether to back down from a seemingly losing fight or continue to stand up for what she believes in.

Buy it: This Book Won’t Burn

Throwback by Maurene Goo

Sam and her mom, Priscilla, a first-generation Korean American, just can’t seem to get along. But when Sam finds herself thrown back in time to the 1990s, attending high school alongside her much younger mother, she learns a few things that just might change their relationship forever.

Buy it: Throwback

When the World Tips Over by Jandy Nelson

The Fall siblings live in California’s wine country and, as a family, have splintered after their father’s mysterious death. Then, a rainbow-haired girl enters the picture and changes everything. This story is full of summer fun—road trips, rivalries, and love.

Buy it: When the World Tips Over

Watch Us Rise by Renée Watson and Ellen Hagan

Jasmine and Chelsea are ready to make changes for women at their high school. They use their literary talents to form a Women’s Rights Club, which soon goes viral. Online trolls lead to trouble, but these best friends are determined to triumph.

Buy it: Watch Us Rise

What’s Eating Jackie Oh? by Patricia Park

Sophomore Jackie’s Korean American parents want her to attend an Ivy League college, but Jackie wants to be a master chef instead. She has the chance to make her dream come true on a reality-TV cooking show, but soon realizes the judges expect her to focus on Asian cuisine because of her heritage. To win, she’ll need to convince them that her Korean background is just one part of who she is and what she cooks, and that Jackie Oh is just like anyone else: complicated, layered, and in search of something delicious, no matter where it comes from.

Buy it: What’s Eating Jackie Oh?

When You Were Everything by Ashley Woodfolk

What happens when lifelong best friends are now ex-besties? Cleo and Layla’s friendship may be over, but the story doesn’t end there.

Buy it: When You Were Everything

Where the Dead Sit Talking by Brandon Hobson

This National Book Award finalist is a poignant tale about the bond two teenagers form in foster care while also trying to retain a connection to their shared Native American culture.

Buy it: Where the Dead Sit Talking

A Constellation of Minor Bears by Jen Ferguson

In this powerful story about balancing friendship and resentment, Molly and her brother, Hank, and his friend Trey used to be inseparable. Then, Hank experienced a traumatic brain injury. Molly knows the accident was not Trey’s fault, but she can’t help but resent him for being there and not stopping it. On the trio’s post-graduation hike along the Pacific Coast Trail, can Molly and Trey overcome the division?

Buy it: A Constellation of Minor Bears

Us in Ruins by Rachel Moore

This is a book for readers who love a rom-com adventure. Margot is on a quest to uncover and reassemble a cursed vase. She unites with a boy who went missing in 1932 to complete her task and heal her broken heart.

Buy it: Us in Ruins

Act (A Click Graphic Novel) by Kayla Miller

Olive can’t wait for the 6th grade field trip, but it turns out an unjust school policy will keep some kids from attending. So Olive decides to run for student council and be the change she wants to see in the world! See other graphic novels in the Click series here. (Grades 3–6)

Buy it: Act (A Click Graphic Novel)

The Circuit by Francisco Jiménez

Francisco Jiménez grew up in a family of poor Mexican immigrants living in California. He and his family worked on farms to survive. In this graphic memoir, Jiménez describes what his life was like growing up. (Grades 7–12)

Buy it: The Circuit

Blancaflor: The Hero With Secret Powers by Nadja Spiegelman and Sergio García Sánchez

This retelling of a classic Latin American folktale was on “best of” lists everywhere, so of course we had to add it to our summer reading list. Celebrate the resourcefulness of women with this magical story that will really resonate with modern kids. (Grades 3–6)

Buy it: Blancaflor: The Hero With Secret Powers

Ellie in First Position by Brian Freschi

Ellie wants to dance, but her mother disapproves. When she moves to a new school after her parent’s divorce, her mom wants Ellie to find a sport, but can she find her way in dance instead? (Grades 3–5)

Buy it: Ellie in First Position

Class Act by Jerry Craft

This is the illustrated sequel to Craft’s New Kid, which won the 2020 Newbery Medal, the Coretta Scott King Author Award, and the Kirkus Prize. They both explore what it’s like to be one of the few students of color at a prestigious private school. (Grades 3–6)

Buy it: Class Act

Curveball by Pablo Cartaya

When Elena’s baseball seasons ends, she has no real friends to hang out with all summer. Her brother invites her to join his friends and be inspired by life outside of baseball. (Middle grades)

Buy it: Curveball

Enola Holmes: The Graphic Novels by Serena Blasco

Following in the wake of the incredible success of the Enola Holmes book series (now a Netflix film series!), these graphic novels retell the mystery tales with lush illustrations that perfectly capture the energy of the originals. See the whole series here. (Grades 4–8)

Buy it: Enola Holmes: The Graphic Novels

Freshman Year by Sarah Mai

Life after high school is complicated for Sarah, who isn’t quite sure what she wants as she heads off to college. Anxiety dogs her as she attempts to make new friends and explore new ideas. And visits home show how things both change and stay the same, all at the same time. This is a terrific read for high school seniors who feel anxious about what lies ahead. (Grades 10–12)

Buy it: Freshman Year

Heartstopper by Alice Oseman

Boy meets boy. Boys become friends. Boys fall in love. This sweet graphic novel series has a huge following and has even become a Netflix series. (Grades 8–12)

Buy it: Heartstopper

Himawari House by Harmony Becker

Three foreign exchange students meet in Japan and forge a fast friendship as they navigate life in a new world. (Grades 9–12)

Buy it: Himawari House

The Girl Who Sang by Estelle Nadel

In this historical graphic novel memoir, 7-year-old Enia goes into hiding when the Nazis invade Poland. She describes what life was like during and after the war when she came to the United States. (Middle grades)

Buy it: The Girl Who Sang

Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me by Mariko Tamaki

Frederica Riley’s relationship with popular girl Laura Dean is toxic—and maybe all too familiar to high schoolers. Freddy falls under her spell again and again until she finally learns what’s truly important in relationships, including friendships. (Grades 9–12)

Buy it: Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me

Summer Vamp by Violet Chan Karim

When Maya goes to culinary summer camp, she gets on the wrong bus and ends up at a camp for vampires. Can she escape before they find out she’s human? (Middle grades)

Buy it: Summer Vamp

Turning Twelve by Kathryn Ormsbee

Katie is 12 and life is getting more complicated. Join her as she feels like an outsider, gets her period, and realizes that her feelings for a new friend, Grace, might be a crush. A perfect summer read for kids who are ready for Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret. (Middle grades)

Buy it: Turning Twelve

Unicorn Boy by Dave Roman

When shy pre-teen Brian grows a unicorn horn on his head, he is thrust into a series of fantastic adventures with his friend Avery. A great novel for kids who love fantasy and imagination. (Middle grades)

Buy it: Unicorn Boy

Measuring Up by Lily LaMotte and Ann Xu

Kids who love to watch cooking competitions will want to add this to their summer reading list. Cici needs to raise money to bring her grandmother from Taiwan to visit her in Seattle. Winning a cooking contest might just be the answer! (Grades 2–6)

Buy it: Measuring Up

The Baby-Sitters Club books by various authors

The Baby-Sitters Club was summer reading for tons of kids in the 1980s, and now they’re back in graphic novel format. Check out all the titles, and you’ll have at least one reader who will spend all summer with Kristy, Mary Anne, Claudia, Dawn, and the rest of the crew. (Middle grades)

Buy it: The Baby-Sitters Club set

The Witch’s Wings and Other Terrifying Tales by Tehlor Kay Mejia

Alicia wants to join the Midnight Society, a group that gathers to tell scary stories. When it’s her turn to tell a story that impresses everyone, can she do it? (Middle grades)

Buy it: The Witch’s Wings

Paws series by Michele Assarasakorn

A precursor the The Baby-Sitters Club, Paws is a series about a group of kids who take care of rescued animals and get into adventures along the way. (Grades 2–4)

Buy it: Paws series

The Oracle Code by Marieke Nijkamp and Manuel Preitano

Barbara Gordon’s entire life changes when a gunshot wound leaves her paralyzed from the waist down. During her time at a rehab center, she encounters a mystery: Patients keep going missing. As Barbara works to find the answers, she learns important truths about herself. (Grades 6–8)

Buy it: The Oracle Code

Puzzled by Pan Cooke

This memoir about the author’s struggle with OCD when he was child is packed with information, stories, and the overall story of how he persevered. (Middle grades)

Buy it: Puzzled

Primer by Thomas Krajewski, Jennifer Muro, and Gretel Lusky

Ashley Rayburn has discovered body paints that turn her into a superhero! Now she has to decide whether to keep them (and her powers) or return them to the agency that made them. (Grades 3–6)

Buy it: Primer

Wildflower Emily by Lydia Corry

A graphic novel biography of poet Emily Dickinson that combines themes of nature and Dickinson’s poetry. A great option for biography or poetry readers. (Middle grades)

Buy it: Wildflower Emily

Huda F Cares? by Huda Fahmy

Huda and her family take a road trip from Michigan to Florida and experience culture clashes along the way because they’re visibly Muslim. Each character struggles with family dynamics and change. (Middle grades)

Buy it: Huda F Cares?

History Comics: Hip-Hop: The Beat of America by Jarrett Williams

This graphic book explores the forces that influenced hip-hop music and the impact of hip-hop on the world and music. (Middle grades)

Buy it: History Comics: Hip-Hop: The Beat of America

Séance Tea Party by Reimena Yee

This whimsical story explores the challenges of leaving childhood behind. Follow a girl still yearning for playtime while she slowly finds herself with only a ghost left as a friend. This bittersweet tale will really resound with middle grade readers. (Grades 3–6)

Buy it: Séance Tea Party

Sunshine by Jarrett J. Krosoczka

Several years after his powerful graphic memoir Hey, Kiddo, author Krosoczka is back with new stories to tell of his young adulthood. His experiences working at summer camp for seriously ill children changed his views on life. Read about the kids and their families, and your views might change too. (Grades 8–12)

Buy it: Sunshine

Swim Team by Johnnie Christmas

This graphic novel follows middle schooler Bree as she starts a new school and is forced to take Swim 101. An elderly neighbor coaches her along, leading Bree and her team to a victory they could never have imagined. (Grades 4–8)

Buy it: Swim Team

This Was Our Pact by Ryan Andrews

Each year, Ben’s town turns out for the Autumn Equinox Festival and sends lighted lanterns floating off down the river. This year, Ben and his friends are determined to follow them wherever the path leads. (Grades 5–8)

Buy it: This Was Our Pact

The Unlucky Kid by Bob Holt

Quin might be the unluckiest kid alive. When he tries to be nice by offering some food to a seagull, he’s soon mobbed by every bird in the neighborhood. His sister’s plan to help him get rid of a loose tooth leaves him hanging at the end of a kite string. And only he could go fishing and wind up catching a nest of angry wasps! This easy reader graphic novel is full of fun and sure to engage young readers from the first page. (Grades 1–4)

Buy it: The Unlucky Kid

When Stars Are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed

This graphic novel tells the story of two brothers from Somalia growing up in a refugee camp in Kenya. Based on the experiences of Somali refugee Omar Mohamed, this book will stay with readers long after they close it. (Grades 4–6)

Buy it: When Stars Are Scattered