Even though my children are now both in the tweens and teens categories, I still read books to them. I will read to them until they want me to stop. I love sharing stories with them and having the opportunity to talk about the lessons in these books. We have shared many classics and modern novels and the rewards are much better than what you get from watching TV together. I am working on a longer list of books every kid should read (or have read to them), but in the meantime, I have put together a short list of eight easy to read, entertaining, and family-friendly book ideas for some laid back summer reading.
Summer Reading List For Tweens and Teens
Summer of the Monkeys by Wilson Rawls. This is hands-down my favorite children’s book. This book has adventure, family, suspense, faith, and a big dose of comedy. I love this book so much that I will never see the movie adaptation, which I heard terrible things about. The story is about a boy who sets out to make money in a most unusual way and discovers a lot about himself, life, and what really matters.
Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder. This is the first book in the beloved Little House series. I read the entire series to my kiddos and by the end of the last book, we felt connected to the story and it was a true sorrow to finish. Boys and girls alike will love reading about Laura’s family life in the woods.
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster. This book is pure nonsense. Okay, maybe not pure nonsense, but it is full of puns, nonsense, and silliness. However, it is quite a fun read. If you kiddos have a fun streak and appreciate a good play on words, they will enjoy this book.
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. The Secret Garden is a story about love, loss, friendship, and purpose. When Mary is forced to live with her Uncle, she is not prepared for what she finds there. When she discovers a secret garden, she has no idea just how it will change her and others. This book is a masterpiece.
Mitty’s Gamen: How it Began by Kristi Grimm. Mitty’s Gamen is the first book of a new trilogy that takes children on an adventure involving dragon-like creatures, legend, and fantasy. There are several fantasy books on the market, but this series is free of terrifying darkness, rebellious kids, and family discord. Mitty’s family is imperfect, yet they work together, love and trust one another, and face life with confidence as they seek the will of the Creator in this adventure. My kids ate this story up and really enjoyed it. Read this one quick because the second book was just released!
Bunnicula: A Rabbit Tale of Mystery by Deborah and James Howe. Bunnicula is the Monroe family’s pet rabbit who is suspected of being a vampire by the family’s pet cat. This story is told from the dog’s perspective and will have you in stitches laughing.
Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery. This story is over 100 years old but is still charming readers. This book tells the story of a young orphan girl who finds a home in a most unexpected place. It is emotional, heartwarming, funny, and adventurous.
A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula Le Guin. Although Le Guin added to the original Earthsea Trilogy, I agree with many others that the first three books are complete and did not need added to. This trilogy influenced many fantasy writers and set the stage for an imaginary world you will never forget. Every fan of fantasy and mythology should read these books. The original trilogy has some scary bits but no adult content (I was surprised by some of what we found in the fourth book).
Enjoy your summer and try to fit in a few good books!
What is your favorite vacation read?
About Janice
One of the most obvious advantages of fantasy is that it allows readers to try out new perspectives on the world. Thank you!