Each year summer seems to fly faster and faster. So before it's over, be sure to pick up your next summer read! This list for middle grades is PERFECT for class recommendations, your own children, or reading yourself!
I've rounded up 10 summer themed novels for upper elementary. These books cover a big range! You'll find classic and contemporary reads, adventure and humor--something for everyone!
1. A Long Way from Chicago By: Richard Peck
If you’ve ever known a silly grandmother—this story is for you! Joey and Mary Alice are sent to live with their grandmother for the summer and find that her country life is very different from their Chicago home. They learn and grow in unexpected ways!
>>View my novel study for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
2. Misty of Chincoteague By: Marguerite Henry
This story is set on the island of Chincoteague, Virginia, home to a band of wild ponies. Each year on "Pony Penning Day" horses are gathered and sold. Two local children take great interest when they find a mare and colt that steal their hearts.
3. The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy By: Jeanne Birdsall
One of many in the Penderwick series, this story follows the Penderwick sisters on summer holiday. The read is nostalgic. The girls explore, make new friends, and get into mischief.
4. Because of Winn-Dixie By: Kate DiCamillo
This story is a classic heart warmer. Opal befriends a dog, Winn-Dixie, and the duo sets off on adventures of healing and friendship.
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
5. Wish By: Barbara O'Connor
Wish is another story with a protagonist sent to live with family. Charlie befriends a stray dog and discovers that her “wishes” aren’t what she expected them to be.
6. One Crazy Summer By: Rita Williams-Garcia
Delphine and her sisters visit California in 1968 at the height of the American Civil Rights movement. The girls think they are there to visit their mother, but are surprised to learn so much more about their lives and country.
7. Walk Two Moons By: Sharon Creech
Salamanca is a 13 year old girl sent to live with her grandparents. She has a gift with words and weaves a tale for them that turns out to be more real than fiction. This story is powerful and poignant!
8. The Secret Lake By: Karen Inglis
Stella and Tom live in London and curious about their neighbor’s “disappearing” dog. They soon find a secret lake, time travel, and a summer holiday mystery.
9. Holes By: Louis Sachar
Stanley is mistakenly sent to a reform camp for boys—but it’s not just any camp. He learns that the boys spend all day in the hot sun digging holes. But why? Stanley’s adventure is one of mystery and redemption.
>>View my read aloud companion for this title on Teachers Pay Teachers!<<
10. Beyond the Bright Sea By: Lauren Wolk
This story is set in the 1920’s on a beautiful Massachusetts island. The main character, Crow, was discovered as a baby drifting in the water. She knows nothing of life off the island and begins to wonder about her past. She sets off on an adventure of learning and healing.
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