2026 Kids Summer Reading Guide
Picture books, read-alouds, chapter books, middle grade favorites, summer reading freebies, and simple ways to make reading feel magical this season
The Second Act is a weekly newsletter packed with obsessively-curated recommendations and ideas—let’s get to it!
Summer always makes me imagine a slower version of life.
The version where everyone spends entire afternoons reading in hammocks while lemonade sweats beside us and no one asks me where their shoes are.
Real summer, at least around here, looks a little different.
It looks like library books tossed into the backseat beside wet towels and snack wrappers. Audiobooks playing while we drive to swim lessons. Picture books read aloud while popsicles drip onto the patio. Chapter books sneaking into bedtime long after the official “lights out.”
I’ve grown to love that version more.
Because summer reading doesn’t have to be perfect to become meaningful.
The goal isn’t creating the most advanced reader or checking off some enormous book list before August ends. It’s simply building a season where stories feel woven into everyday life. A season where books become part of the memories our kids carry with them.
So I pulled together the kinds of books I’m always looking for this time of year:
picture books that feel like sunshine and adventure
early readers that build confidence
chapter books kids disappear into for hours
middle grade stories they immediately need to tell you about
family read-alouds that somehow pull everyone into the same room for a little while
I also included summer reading programs and audiobook ideas to help make reading feel fun instead of forced this season.
Let’s build a summer around stories!
A few things I keep reminding myself:
Audiobooks count.
Graphic novels count.
Rereading the same favorite series for the fifteenth time absolutely counts.
Reading one chapter before bed counts too.
I’m trying to focus less on creating an impressive reading summer and more on creating a cozy one. One where books feel accessible and enjoyable instead of another thing to manage.
A few rhythms we’re leaning into this summer:
weekly library trips
keeping books in the car
audiobooks during errands
family read-alouds at bedtime
letting the kids choose “just for fun” books
reading outside whenever possible
slow mornings before screens
Sometimes the smallest reading moments become the ones kids remember most.



Picture Books We’re Loving This Summer
We tend to rotate picture books seasonally around here, and summer books always feel especially nostalgic to me. Beach days, bugs, bikes, popsicles, swimming lessons, late sunsets, these are the stories that make the season feel even more magical.
Beach Days & Ocean Adventures
Jules vs. the Ocean by Jessie Sima — A delightful story about determination, imagination, and a day at the beach that doesn’t quite go as planned. Jules is determined to build the biggest, most magnificent sandcastle ever, but the ocean has other ideas. Funny, relatable, and perfect for kids learning that sometimes the best adventures happen when things don't go according to plan.
Bookshop | Amazon
The Little Blue Cottage by Kelly Jordan and Jessica Courtney-Tickle — A nostalgic beach story that feels like a family vacation tucked between book covers. Through changing seasons and generations of visitors, this charming seaside cottage becomes a place where memories are made and treasured. Cozy, beautiful, and ideal for summer reading.
Bookshop | Amazon
Goldfish on Vacation by Sally Lloyd-Jones — When a little girl and a boy spending the summer at the beach exchange notes through their goldfish bowls, an unexpected friendship begins. Sweet, charming, and filled with all the magic of a classic summer vacation.
Bookshop | Amazon
Splash! by Ann Jonas — joyful celebration of water play and summertime fun. With simple text and bright illustrations, this playful story captures the excitement of splashing, swimming, and spending long summer days outdoors.
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The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister — A classic that still feels right at home in a summer reading basket. With its shimmering illustrations and timeless message about friendship and generosity, it's one of those books that generations of children continue to love.
Bookshop | Amazon
Pool Days & Learning Something New
Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall — One of my favorite books about courage. Jabari is ready to jump off the diving board... until he suddenly isn't so sure. This beautifully captures those moments when kids want to be brave but need a little extra time and encouragement to get there.
Bookshop | Amazon
Together We Swim by Valerie Bolling — A sweet and encouraging story about learning to swim, building confidence, and celebrating milestones both big and small. Perfect for children taking swim lessons or working through new challenges this summer.
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Maisy Learns to Swim by Lucy Cousins — A wonderful choice for preschoolers preparing for swim season. Maisy’s cheerful attitude and familiar experiences make this a reassuring read for little ones who may be feeling nervous about the water.
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Pool Party by Amy Duchêne — Bright, colorful, and full of summertime excitement. From splashing and games to time spent with friends, this book captures everything kids love about a day at the pool.
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Bubbles...Up! by Jacqueline Davies — A playful celebration of water, imagination, and summer fun. As bubbles drift through the pages, readers are invited to look closer and discover all the small wonders hiding beneath the surface.
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Serafina Makes Waves by Matthew Burgess — A joyful beach-day story about bravery, friendship, and learning that sometimes the best adventures happen when we try something new. Filled with warmth and humor, it's a lovely reminder that confidence often grows one small step at a time.
Bookshop | Amazon
Camping & Outdoor Adventures
Grandad’s Camper by Harry Woodgate — A beautiful story about family, memories, and adventure. As Grandad shares stories from his travels, readers are introduced to themes of love, belonging, and the special ways family stories connect generations. A heartwarming read that's perfect for summer road-trip season.
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The Camping Trip by Jennifer K. Mann — Perfect for nervous campers and kids preparing for their first outdoor adventure. Ernestine is excited to go camping with her aunt but quickly discovers that sleeping outside isn't quite what she imagined. A reassuring and relatable story about trying new things and finding confidence along the way.
Bookshop | Amazon
Fatima’s Great Outdoors by Ambreen Tariq — Celebrates nature, family, and finding confidence in the outdoors. When Fatima's family goes camping for the first time, she discovers that adventure can look different for everyone. A wonderful story about stepping outside your comfort zone and discovering the joy of the natural world.
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Nature & Summer Wonder
What Sound Is Morning? by Grant Snider — A beautifully illustrated celebration of paying attention to the natural world. Through thoughtful questions and imaginative observations, this book encourages kids to slow down, look closely, and notice the small wonders all around them.
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The Watermelon Seed by Greg Pizzoli — Funny, silly, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. When a watermelon-loving crocodile accidentally swallows a seed, his imagination runs completely wild. Perfect for giggles and repeated read-alouds.
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And Then Comes Summer by Tom Brenner — If one book captures the anticipation of summer vacation, it’s this one. Filled with bike rides, fireflies, lemonade stands, and long sunny days, it perfectly captures the excitement of everything kids love about summer.
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The Tiny Seed by Eric Carle — A timeless classic that follows one tiny seed on a remarkable journey, showing kids how patience and perseverance can lead to beautiful things. Eric Carle's signature illustrations make this a wonderful introduction to nature and the life cycle of plants.
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Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey — A beloved classic celebrating nature, family, and a day spent outdoors. Sal's blueberry-picking adventure is just as charming today as it was when it was first published, making it a perfect addition to any summer reading basket.
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Summer Stories from Around the World
Punky Aloha by Shar Tuiasoa — Bright, joyful, and filled with Hawaiian culture and summer vibes.
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A Song of Frutas by Margarita Engle — A gorgeous story celebrating community, culture, food, and family.
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Carmela Full of Wishes by Matt de la Peña —A tender story about hope, family, and finding wonder in ordinary moments.
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Islandborn by Junot Díaz — When Lola is asked to share memories of the island where she was born, she discovers that stories from family and community can help us stay connected to our roots. A beautiful celebration of identity, belonging, and the places that shape us.
Bookshop | Amazon
Watercress by Andrea Wang — A moving story about family, heritage, and understanding the experiences that came before us. Thoughtful and beautifully illustrated, it’s the kind of book that sparks meaningful conversations between kids and parents.
Bookshop | Amazon
Danielle's Summer Reading Basket Tip: Instead of keeping all of your books on shelves, try creating a dedicated summer basket. Fill it with beach stories, camping books, bug books, pool-day favorites, and seasonal reads. Rotating books this way makes old favorites feel new again and often encourages kids to pick them up independently. ☀️📚🏖️
Early Readers for Building Confidence
These are the books I love for newly independent readers because they still feel genuinely fun instead of overly instructional. Whether your child is sounding out words for the first time or beginning to tackle longer stories on their own, these books help build confidence while keeping reading enjoyable.
Funny Books for Reluctant Readers
InvestiGators by John Patrick Green — Two crime-solving alligators, outrageous gadgets, nonstop puns, and comic-book-style storytelling make this one incredibly hard to resist. Perfect for kids who claim they don’t like books but love to laugh.
Bookshop | Amazon
Dragon Masters by Tracey West — Fast-paced adventures, dragons, short chapters, and lots of action make this an excellent next step for readers gaining confidence. The stories move quickly, making it easy for kids to feel successful and eager to keep reading.
Bookshop | Amazon
Narwhal and Jelly by Ben Clanton — Funny, silly, approachable, and incredibly engaging for reluctant readers. Filled with friendship, ocean-themed adventures, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, these graphic-style books are often the ones that turn "I don't like reading" into "Can I read one more chapter?"
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Pizza and Taco by Stephen Shaskan — These are wildly popular for a reason. With goofy humor, ridiculous adventures, and a friendship that's constantly being tested in hilarious ways, this series is perfect for kids who want reading to feel fun.
Bookshop | Amazon
Game Over, Super Rabbit Boy! by Thomas Flintham — Fast-paced, funny, and packed with video-game-style adventure, this is a favorite for reluctant readers and newly independent readers alike. The short chapters, comic-book illustrations, and action-packed storyline make it hard for kids to put down.
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The Bad Guys by Aaron Blabey— Part graphic novel, part chapter book, and completely ridiculous in the best way. A team of misunderstood “bad guys” tries to become heroes, usually with hilarious results. This series has converted countless reluctant readers into enthusiastic page-turners.
Bookshop | Amazon
Friendship & School Stories
Lucy Lancaster Wants a Rematch by Willow Coven — A fun school story filled with friendship, problem-solving, and learning from mistakes. Lucy's determination and big personality make her easy to root for, while the relatable challenges will resonate with kids navigating friendships and everyday ups and downs.
Bookshop | Amazon
Zara’s Rules for Record-Breaking Fun by Hena Khan — A lively story about creativity, family, and making summer memories. Zara is determined to make her summer unforgettable, and her enthusiasm, imagination, and big ideas make this a delightful read for curious kids.
Bookshop | Amazon
Help the Brave Giraffe by Mitali Banerjee Ruths — A fun story about friendship, courage, and helping others. With lovable characters and an encouraging message, it's a wonderful choice for young readers building confidence both in books and in life.
Bookshop | Amazon
The Critter Club: Liz Plays Matchmaker by Callie Barkley — Perfect for readers who love friendship stories and helping animals. Full of kindness, teamwork, and adorable pets, this series is especially appealing to animal-loving kids.
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The Adventures of Sophie Mouse by Poppy Green — A cozy woodland story about friendship and kindness that's perfect for kids transitioning into chapter books. With charming illustrations and gentle adventures, it's the kind of series that makes young readers eager to keep turning the page.
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Animal Lovers
Henry and Mudge by Cynthia Rylant — Classic cozy early readers that still hold up beautifully. The friendship between Henry and his giant dog, Mudge, is warm, reassuring, and full of everyday adventures that feel just right for young readers building confidence.
Bookshop | Amazon
Sea Otter’s Second Chance by Cherilyn Chin — Animal lovers will adore this rescue adventure filled with teamwork and compassion. As a young sea otter gets a second chance, readers are introduced to themes of kindness, perseverance, and caring for the natural world.
Bookshop | Amazon
Scrapper: Pup vs. Squirrel by Cam Higgins — A humorous animal adventure full of mischief and fun. Scrapper is determined to protect his yard, but a clever squirrel has other plans. Packed with laughs and lively illustrations, this is a great choice for kids who enjoy silly animal antics.
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Good Dog: How to Spy a Spy by Cam Higgins — When a mystery unfolds, Bo the dog is convinced it's up to him to solve it. With plenty of humor, heart, and canine charm, this series is perfect for readers who love animals, adventures, and stories that keep them guessing.
Bookshop | Amazon
Worm and Butterfly Are Friends...Always by Kaz Windness — A sweet friendship story with lovable characters and gentle humor. As Worm and Butterfly navigate changes in their friendship, kids are introduced to themes of growth, loyalty, and celebrating the things that make each of us unique.
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Magic, Fairies & Imagination
Owl Diaries by Rebecca Elliott — A great bridge between early readers and longer chapter books. Told through diary entries, illustrations, and short chapters, this charming series follows Eva Owl and her friends through school adventures, creative projects, and everyday challenges that young readers will recognize and enjoy.
Bookshop | Amazon
Fairy Scout Friends: No Rain, No Rainbow by Hannah Fay — A magical adventure celebrating friendship and teamwork. When challenges arise, the Fairy Scouts learn that working together and staying positive can help them overcome almost anything. Sweet, uplifting, and perfect for readers who love a little magic.
Bookshop | Amazon
Fairies Welcome: A Wish for Ivy by Bea Jackson — A whimsical fairy-filled story perfect for imaginative readers. With enchanting characters, gentle adventures, and a touch of magic on every page, it's an inviting choice for kids who love fairy gardens, make-believe, and magical worlds.
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Princess Minna: The Unicorn Mix-Up by Kirsty Applebaum — Silly mix-ups, unicorns, and plenty of laughs make this a delightful choice for emerging readers. Princess Minna's adventures are filled with humor, friendship, and just enough magic to keep young readers eagerly turning the page.
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Unicorn Academy by Julie Sykes — Part friendship story, part magical adventure, this beloved series follows girls and their unicorns as they solve problems, build confidence, and discover the power of teamwork. With short chapters and plenty of sparkle, it's an excellent next step for readers who love fantasy.
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Chapter Books Kids Completely Disappear Into
There’s something magical that happens when kids find the right chapter book. Suddenly they’re sneaking in “just one more chapter” before bed, carrying books from room to room, and eagerly telling you all about their favorite characters. These are the kinds of stories that pull readers into new worlds, spark big imaginations, and make reading feel like an adventure all its own.
For Adventure Lovers
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown — One of those rare books that works beautifully for independent reading and family read-alouds alike. Roz the robot's journey of survival, friendship, and belonging is unforgettable and often becomes an instant favorite.
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The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary — Still such a fun summer read. Ralph the mouse's motorcycle adventures are packed with excitement, humor, and just enough mischief to keep kids eagerly turning pages.
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The Trumpet of the Swan by E. B. White — A beautiful adventure about perseverance, friendship, and finding your voice. Louis, a trumpet-playing swan born without the ability to honk, embarks on an unforgettable journey that feels both whimsical and deeply moving. One of those classics that quietly stays with readers for years.
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Ruby Star of the Show by Lenore Look — A charming story about confidence, creativity, and finding your moment to shine. Ruby's determination and imagination make her an easy character to cheer for.
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The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo — A brave little mouse, a princess, and a kingdom in need of hope come together in this enchanting adventure. Beautifully written and full of heart, it’s a wonderful next step for growing readers.
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The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo — Follow a china rabbit on an extraordinary journey of love, loss, friendship, and self-discovery. This one is equal parts adventure and heart, and often becomes a book kids remember long after they finish it.
Bookshop | Amazon
Cozy Family Stories
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser — Warm, funny, and full of family chaos in the best way. When five siblings learn they may have to leave the only home they’ve ever known, they hatch a series of creative plans to win over their grumpy neighbor. Filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable family dynamics, this is the kind of book that makes you wish you could move in next door.
Bookshop | Amazon
Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo — Tender and timeless. After adopting a scruffy dog named Winn-Dixie, Opal begins forming unexpected friendships throughout her small town and learning more about herself along the way. Full of kindness, humor, and memorable characters, it's a beautiful story about community, belonging, and second chances.
Bookshop | Amazon
The Saturdays by Elizabeth Enright — Four siblings pool their allowance to create unforgettable adventures in this warm, classic family story that feels tailor-made for summer reading. Each Saturday brings a new outing and a new adventure, encouraging independence, imagination, and the kind of childhood experiences that linger long after the last page.
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A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond — The charming adventures of everyone's favorite marmalade-loving bear are as delightful today as ever. From the moment Paddington arrives in London, his well-meaning efforts to help often lead to hilarious mishaps. Sweet, funny, and endlessly lovable, this is a wonderful introduction to a truly iconic character.
Bookshop | Amazon
Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White — A classic for a reason. The unlikely friendship between Wilbur the pig and Charlotte the spider has been capturing readers' hearts for generations. Thoughtful, funny, and deeply moving, it's a story about friendship, loyalty, and the extraordinary impact of simple acts of kindness.
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On the Banks of Plum Creek by Laura Ingalls Wilder — Prairie adventures, family life, and simple joys make this a wonderful historical chapter book for family reading. Through Laura's eyes, readers experience everything from blizzards and harvests to school days and family celebrations, offering a fascinating glimpse into childhood on the American frontier.
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The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett — For older readers and families looking for a story filled with nature, imagination, and growth. As Mary discovers a hidden, neglected garden, she slowly uncovers friendship, healing, and a renewed sense of wonder. A timeless classic that beautifully celebrates the restorative power of nature.
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Zoey and Sassafras by Asia Citro — Perfect for kids who love animals, experiments, and imagination. When magical creatures need help, Zoey uses science, observation, and problem-solving skills to find solutions. It's a clever and engaging blend of STEM learning, adventure, and fantasy that curious kids tend to devour.
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Middle Grade Books They’ll Immediately Want to Talk About
These are the books that tend to get passed between friends, recommended at sleepovers, and brought along on road trips. They’re filled with unforgettable characters, big adventures, meaningful friendships, and the kinds of stories that stick with readers long after summer ends.
For Mystery Lovers
The Mystery of Black Hollow Lane by Julia Nobel — Perfect for kids who love puzzles and secretive schools. When Emmy discovers a mysterious box of clues connected to her late father, she's pulled into a hidden world of codes, secrets, and long-buried mysteries. Fast-paced and full of intrigue, it's a great pick for budding detectives.
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The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin — One of the most beloved children’s mysteries ever written. A cast of quirky characters, a puzzling inheritance, and plenty of twists make this an unforgettable read for kids who love solving clues.
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Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library by Chris Grabenstein — Part puzzle, part adventure, and completely entertaining. Kids who love books, games, and riddles will have a blast trying to solve this library-centered mystery.
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Emotional & Thoughtful Reads
Front Desk by Kelly Yang — One of my favorite middle grade recommendations. Mia Tang helps manage the front desk of a motel while navigating school, friendship, family expectations, and big dreams. Funny, heartfelt, and incredibly empowering, this is the kind of book kids race through and then immediately hand to a friend.
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The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate — Told from the perspective of a gorilla living in a shopping mall circus, this unforgettable story explores friendship, hope, and the importance of finding where you belong. Funny, heartfelt, and perfect for thoughtful readers.
Wonder by R. J. Palacio — A powerful story about kindness, empathy, and choosing courage. It’s the kind of book that sparks meaningful conversations long after the final chapter.
Bookshop | Amazon
Fantasy & Adventure
Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend — Magical competitions, secret societies, and a wonderfully imaginative world make this a perfect pick for readers who love getting completely lost in a story. Often recommended for kids who have finished Harry Potter and want something equally enchanting.
Bookshop | Amazon
The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart by Stephanie Burgis— When a young dragon is transformed into a human girl, she discovers a surprising passion for chocolate-making. Funny, charming, and filled with adventure, this is a delightful fantasy for readers who enjoy magical worlds with a cozy twist.
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The Unicorn Quest by Kamilla Benko — Sisters, hidden worlds, magical creatures, and high-stakes adventure combine in this exciting fantasy series. Perfect for readers who love brave heroines and imaginative storytelling.
Bookshop | Amazon
The Ogress and the Orphans by Kelly Barnhill — A beautifully written modern fairy tale about kindness, community, and standing up for what’s right. Full of heart, humor, and unforgettable characters.
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The Secret of Platform 13 by Eva Ibbotson — Hidden doorways, magical creatures, and a quest to rescue a lost prince make this whimsical adventure feel like discovering a secret world hiding just out of sight.
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The Marvellers by Dhonielle Clayton — Set in a magical school floating among the clouds, this imaginative adventure is packed with wonder, friendship, and plenty of twists along the way.
Bookshop | Amazon
Family Read-Aloud Favorites
There’s something a little magical about family read-alouds in the summer.
Maybe it’s because the schedule loosens up just enough to make room for an extra chapter before bed, or because everyone ends up gathered together on the couch after a long day outside. Whatever the reason, some of my favorite childhood reading memories came from books that were read aloud rather than books I read on my own.
If you’re looking for a story the whole family can enjoy together this summer, these are wonderful places to start.
Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren — Wildly imaginative and endlessly entertaining. Pippi does things her own way, and kids absolutely love her for it. The chapters work beautifully as stand-alone stories, making this an easy choice for busy summer evenings.
Bookshop | Amazon
Fortunately, the Milk by Neil Gaiman — Short, hilarious, and delightfully absurd. What begins as a simple trip to buy milk quickly turns into an adventure involving pirates, dinosaurs, aliens, and time travel. This one is especially great for families with a wide age range because everyone will find something to laugh about.
Bookshop | Amazon
The BFG by Roald Dahl — A delightful blend of adventure, humor, and heart. When Sophie befriends the Big Friendly Giant, she finds herself swept into a world filled with dreams, giants, and unforgettable adventures. The playful language and laugh-out-loud moments make this one especially fun to read aloud.
Bookshop | Amazon
The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall — If summer could be turned into a book, it might be this one. Follow four sisters through a season filled with adventures, mishaps, friendships, and plenty of charm. Warm, funny, and wonderfully nostalgic, it’s the kind of story families fall in love with together.
Bookshop | Amazon
Mr. Popper’s Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater — A classic family read-aloud packed with humor and penguin-filled chaos. When an ordinary house painter unexpectedly becomes the owner of a dozen penguins, life quickly becomes far more exciting than he ever imagined. Silly, lighthearted, and perfect for sharing a few chapters at a time.
Bookshop | Amazon
Danielle’s Read-Aloud Tip: Don’t worry about reading every night or finishing a book quickly. Some of our best read-aloud experiences have happened one chapter at a time over several weeks. The goal isn’t speed. It’s creating a shared story your family gets to experience together. ☀️📚🏖️
Great Audiobooks for Summer Road Trips
Audiobooks are one of my favorite summer reading hacks.
They turn errands into story time, make long drives feel shorter, and somehow have a magical ability to keep everyone entertained when you’ve already heard “Are we there yet?” six times.
And just in case you need the reminder, Audiobooks absolutely count as reading.
For many kids, audiobooks build vocabulary, improve comprehension, model fluent reading, and help them fall in love with stories they might not be ready to tackle independently yet.
A few family-friendly favorites:
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
Charlotte’s Web by E. B. White
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street by Karina Yan Glaser
Where to Find Audiobooks
Libby — If you have a library card, Libby is one of the best free resources available. You can borrow audiobooks, ebooks, and magazines directly from your local library and listen right from your phone or tablet. It’s completely free and often the first place I recommend families start.
Hoopla — Many libraries also offer Hoopla, which provides instant access to audiobooks, ebooks, comics, movies, and more. Unlike Libby, many titles are available immediately without a waitlist, making it especially helpful during busy summer reading months.
Libro.fm — If you’d rather purchase audiobooks, Libro.fm is a wonderful alternative to larger retailers. Every audiobook purchase supports a local independent bookstore of your choice, which means you can build your audiobook library while helping neighborhood bookshops thrive.
Spotify Premium — Many Spotify Premium memberships now include a monthly audiobook listening allowance. If you’re already paying for Spotify, it’s worth checking your account to see whether audiobook hours are included. You may already have access to books without realizing it.
Your Local Library — Don’t overlook CDs, Playaways, and digital audiobook collections available through your library. Many libraries also offer summer reading programs, prize incentives, and curated audiobook recommendations for kids.
Danielle’s Audiobook Tip: We keep a “car book” going all summer long. Every time we get in the car, we listen to the next chapter. It’s amazing how quickly a family can finish a book when you’re listening during swim lessons, grocery runs, and weekend adventures.
Free Summer Reading Programs for Kids
One of my favorite summer traditions is signing up for reading programs that make reading feel even more exciting.
A few worth checking out this year:
And don’t forget your local library. So many libraries offer programs!
Most kids won’t remember how many books they read this summer.
They’ll remember reading flashlight books under the covers. Listening to audiobooks on the way to the pool. The chapter book they couldn’t stop thinking about. The library book that came everywhere with them.
That’s the kind of reading life I’m hoping to build around here this summer!!
I’d love to know, what book are your kids most excited to read this summer? Or what’s a childhood favorite you still remember all these years later?
The Second Act is an entirely reader-supported publication written and created by Danielle Wraith. Click here to subscribe or gift a friend a subscription here (if a friend sent you this —tell them thanks!). Anything you want covered? Questions? Reply with a comment below! You can also find me on Instagram. Please come say hi!



















Excellent list! Of all the seasonal reading, summer is surely the best ☀️
Great list! Added so many to my library wish list!