Hey Kids! Need Summer Reading Ideas?

By Lisa Johnson, Herndon High English and Writing Teacher

In search of some reading inspiration for your family this summer? After teaching all different grades from elementary to high school, I have come across many insightful, funny, heartwarming, and inspirational books over the years. Here you will find some of my and my students’ all-time favorites to add to your summer reading list.

Books to read with elementary schoolers

1. “Each Kindness” by Jacqueline Woodson

While this story has a sad ending, it teaches a strong lesson on the importance of never missing an opportunity for kindness. 

1. “Jabari Jumps” by Gaia Cornwall

This is a wonderful and relatable story about overcoming fears, as Jabari overcomes his fears of the diving board with the help of his father. 

1. “Little Taco Truck” by Tanya Valentine

When Little Taco Truck’s favorite spot is taken, he learns both how to stand up for himself and make room for others – a balance that is difficult to strike.

1. “Mother Bruce” by Ryan T. Higgins

In Book One of this hilarious series, goslings mistake happily independent Bruce the 

bear as their mother, and Bruce must learn how to navigate his new and unexpected 

family. 

1. “After the Fall” by Dan Santat

We all know the story of Humpty Dumpty, but what happens after he can’t be put back together? This story inspires readers not to allow setbacks and fears to keep them from achieving their dreams. 

1. “The Rabbit Listened” by Cori Doerrfeld

“The Rabbit Listened” teaches children (and adults) how sometimes the best way to help is simply to be there for someone amidst their struggles. 

1. “The Dreamer” by Il Sung Na

This beautifully-illustrated picture book teaches children about the importance of perseverance, planning, determination, and how pursuing their dreams can inspire others through the story of a pig who is determined to learn to fly.   

1. “The Remember Balloons” by Jessie Oliveros 

When Jesse’s grandpa starts to lose his memory, Jesse learns the importance of 

listening and carrying on his stories. 

1. “This is Not My Hat” by John Klassen 

This funny and adorably-illustrated story follows what happens to a tiny fish who steals something that he feels should belong to him. 

1. “Beware of the Jornsnout” by Sarah Carpenter 

A Reston resident wrote this clever and entertaining collection of interactive poems and short stories. With short pieces that open opportunities for conversation, creativity, and collaboration, this book is a perfect way to connect with your child. 

Middle: 

1. “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson 

This 1978 Newbery Award-winning novel about two friends who create an imaginary kingdom for themselves has stood the test of time as a middle school classic. 

1. “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio

An uplifting novel about a young boy with a facial deformity navigating school for the first time, “Wonder” inspires both self-love and acceptance of others. 

1. “Inside out and Back Again” by Thanhha Lai 

Through a collection of poems, the reader follows the journey of Hȧ, a recent immigrant from Vietnam, as she explores American life for the first time. 

1. “When You Reach Me” by Rebecca Stead

A Newbery Award-winning, page-turning novel about friendship and time travel, as two friends work together to prevent a tragic death. 

1. “One Crazy Summer” by Rita Williams-Garcia

Both a Newbery and a Coretta Scott King award-winner, this novel tells the story of three 

girls who navigate reconnecting with their estranged mother. 

1. “Matilda” by Roald Dahl

A forever classic, “Matilda” is about a brilliant girl who, while unappreciated by her parents, finds power and connection as she uncovers exceptional abilities.  

1. “Esperanza Rising” by Pam Munoz Ryan

When tragedy strikes, Esperanza learns to rediscover herself after having to leave her elite, upper class lifestyle in Mexico to create a new life in the United States.

1. “The Thief Lord” by Cornelia Funke

Two orphaned boys who escape to Venice become part of a group of boys who embark on adventure, uncover secrets, and magical treasure in this thrilling story. 

1. “Island of the Blue Dolphins” by Scott O’Dell

This  historical fiction novel based on a true story tells how a young girl stranded on an island off the California coast, learns to survive and find joy. 

1. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry

This utopian / dystopian novel about a young boy who uncovers the problems with his community after receiving the gift of memories has been a teen favorite for the past 30 years. 

High School

1. “The Book Thief”  by Markuz Zusak

 A page-turning historical fiction novel set in Nazi Germany during World War II that explores friendship, mortality, and the importance of literature. 

1. “Nothing to See Here” by Kevin Wilson

This humorous novel is about two high school friends who reunite later in life and lead exceptionally different lifestyles.

1. “Everything, Everything” by Nicola Yun 

An especially great story to read along with your teen, this novel explores the ideas of risks, safety, and power through the story of a girl who is allergic to the outside world, but is longing to explore it.

1. “Fish in a Tree” by Lynda Mullaly Hunt 

Through the story of a girl who navigates life trying to mask her dyslexia, this novel provides teens with empathy for those with invisible disabilities and the comfort that they are not alone in their struggles. 

1. “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah 

This historical fiction novel examines morality and impossible choices through the stories of two sisters in German-occupied France during World War II. 

1. “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green

For the past decade, this tragic but heartwarming story about a teen romance amidst a terminal disease has been a top favorite for teens.

 7. “All American Boys” by Jason Reynolds

This novel follows the lives of two teenage boys who navigate racism and police brutality in their community. 

8. “The Sun is Also a Star” by Nicola Yun

Through the story of a young couple who falls in love while one of their families faces deportation, this story explores the themes of identity, family, and love. 

9. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid

A current teen and adult favorite about the glamorous and scandalous life of a fictional Hollywood movie icon. 

10. “Eragon” by Christopher Paolini

A page-turning fantasy novel that has been a consistent teen favorite for more than 20 years tells the story of a teen boy who embarks on an epic adventure.