Getting kids to read during summer vacation can be a huge challenge, especially with so many games, apps, and other fun media distractions available to them when school's out. But there's a ton of value to hitting the books, even when it's not required by a teacher. Reading over the summer is the most effective tool against "summer slide," and research shows that students who read when school's out enter the next grade better prepared than students who don't.
But convincing kids and teens to crack open a book when they could be swimming, streaming video, or socializing is no easy task. That's why we've come up with some summer reading "challenges" that the whole family can get behind. Some friendly competition might be exactly what you need to motivate even the most reluctant readers. These aren't your standard "read as many books as you can" challenges either (although we do have suggestions to keep your biggest bookworm occupied). These lists and guides have something for kids of all ages, interests, and reading levels, so that they can find the perfect book that will inspire them to keep reading all summer long.
Pick the challenge that best suits your family!
Challenge 1: Read the book(s) before you see the movie.
Get film fans excited with these books -- and then see them on the big screen.
Books to Read Before They're Movies in 2017
Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
The Boss Baby by Marla Frazee
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul by Jeff Kinney
Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
The Adventures of Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey
Challenge 2: Find a book your reluctant reader will love.
For many people, a love of reading is just a matter of finding the right book.
Fantastic Mr. Fox by Rohl Dahl
Bookmarks Are People Too!: Here's Hank, Book 1 by Henry Winkler, Lin Oliver
Challenge 3: Have a tech-free vacation.
Are We There Yet? by Dan Santat
Challenge 4: How fast can you finish the series?
For speedy readers or anyone who wants to stay with their favorite characters a little longer.
Best Book Series for Early Readers
Henry and Mudge Series by Cynthia Rylant
A Bear Called Paddington by Michael Bond
Ballpark Mysteries Series by David A Kelley
Challenge 5: Get ahead for the next school year.
Fight off summer learning loss and enjoy some great books at the same time.
Charlotte's Web by E.B. White
The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame
Ramona and Her Father by Beverly Cleary
Challenge 6: How many essential books have you read?
Still need something to read? We have you covered with hundreds of amazing books for kids.
50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12
Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Ronald Dahl
