Sunny Days and Story Nights
As summer is now upon us with full force, a unique opportunity for children to dive into their passion for reading has arisen. Summer is the perfect time to fight dragons in a fantasy world, put on a detective's hat to solve a fictional mystery, or see life through the eyes of another character.
Summer is the perfect time to explore books, as reading isn't only about maintaining an academic skill but also about sparking creativity, growing imagination, and fostering a lifelong passion for reading.
Taking trips to the library is an easy and affordable method to cultivate this hobby, as there are endless books to choose from. However, I know from experience that sometimes finding the "perfect" book can be challenging. So that is where this article will come in handy! I will give you some ideas for books I've read and loved throughout my reading journey, and I would recommend them!
Kindergarten-5th Grade
The Little Engine That Could By Watty Piper
This is more than just a well-known children's book; it's the perfect example of perseverance and hard work. Following a train engine that possesses mounds of confidence as it repeats, "I think I can. I think I can," it is sure to teach children of any age a meaningful life lesson to continue pushing forward against all odds.
Because of Mr. Terupt By Rob Buyea
This is the perfect read for elementary children. It follows the unique lives of 5th-grade students and how significant an impact their kind teacher has on each of their lives. Alternating perspectives, this book displays the importance a single person's presence can have on many lives.
6th-8th Grade
Land of Stories By Chris Colfer
A perfect blend of existing fairy tales with new twists, this fantasy-filled series follows the lives and adventures of twins, Alex, and Connor in and out of the fantasy lands. There is always a surprise change in the plot right around the corner that is sure to maintain the reader's interest for the entire length of the series.
Life As We Knew It By Susan Beth Pfeffer
Following a teenage girl and her family after an asteroid hits the moon, this novel is heart-wrenching. The story is told through journal entries that mark the challenges and the adventures the family must undergo to survive the Earth's new disasters.
The Giver By Lois Lowry
This novel is completely thought-provoking. It's about a dystopian society that is seemingly perfect but suppresses the emotion and individuality of its citizens. It raises questions about the importance and value of knowledge and what happens if that is withheld.
9th-12th Grade
Chaos Walking By Patrick Ness
Set in a dystopian future, this novel is driven on through the adventures of Todd and Viola as they set out to rebel against the town that Todd has known all of his life. In Prentisstown, each man's thoughts are entirely audible to those around them. You will surely be kept on the edge of your seat as war is fought, battles are won, and the characters search for themselves amidst chaos.
We Were Liars By E. Lockhart
In a thrilling story full of mystery, unravel the dark secrets of the wealthy Sinclair family as they live their summers on a private island. If you are willing to dive into a world full of family secrets, regret, and betrayal, this two-part series will surely leave your mouth agape.
With this, I challenge you to read as many books as possible this summer! But, if you want to accept the ultimate challenge, I urge you to continue reading beyond the summer. Continue through the next school year, the rest of your childhood, and all through your life. Because as Dr. Seuss says, "The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go."
