Summer Reads for Tweens and Teens

Seems like we are always looking for a good book or two that our kids can read over the summer.

Our sister Erika teaches middle school English and is back 

with some great summer reads for tweens and teens.

Take it away sis....

The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster 

            This is an oldie, but a goodie.  It is great for upper elementary on up.  It is a fun story of a boy who learns to be curious and interested in the world around him.  It is full of crazy plays on words and unique points of view.  This would be a fun read for a family to do together. 

A Tale of Two Castles by Gail Carson Levine 

            A medieval fantasy full of mysterious characters. A princess who discovers surprising friendships and uses her wits to solve several problems.  It is good for upper elementary readers.

The Island of Dr. Librisby  by Chris Grabenstein 

            Billy is spending the summer at the home of the mysterious Dr. Librisby.  When ever Billy opens a book from the library, he hears sounds coming from a nearby island at the lake. This novel is full of imagination and adventures.  It is great for boys and girls in upper elementary to junior high.

Prisoner B-3087  by Alan Gratz    

            This is the story of Yanek, a Jewish boy in 1930 Poland.  How can he survive emotionally and physically as he is moved from 10 different concentration camps?  Written for 6th grade and older, this story follows a fictional character while dealing with historical events.  It ends with hope and inspiration.

Fairest  by Gail Carson Levine 

            This medieval fantasy centers on a young woman whose goal is to be the fairest in the land.  As she works towards this goal, she is drawn into adventures that teach her that her kindness and intelligence are more important than outward beauty.  For junior high and above.

The Selection Series by Kiera Cass 

            Who wouldn’t want to wear gorgeous gowns and live in a palace?  Sometimes what you think you want is not all you thought it would be, and what you really want is something you never even imagined.  This series of five or more novels is a fun read for junior high to adult.

Of Giants and Ice (The Ever Afters #1) by Shelby Bach
             A girl begins an after school program that turns out to not be a s boring as she thought.  Full of adventures that are more real than bedtime stories, this tale teaches her that she is the star of her own life.  This is a fun series for upper elementary boys and girls. 

Kate Unmasked by Cindy M. Hogan 

            Determined to find her birth parents, Kate’s efforts pay off with more questions than answers leading her deep into the world of the mob.  Themes of family love and loyalty are addressed positively along with the role of choice in who you become.  This book is for high school to adult readers.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee 

            Another oldie, but goodie.  I read this in 9^th grade and was a little ambivalent about it.  I mostly remembered the trial chapters.  This year, I read it again and was surprised at the humor and the fascinating characters.  Definitely worth reading as an adult!

Cookies to Die For by Dene Low  

            This is a fun read about a mom who has a relaxing weekend planned while hubby and kids are gone camping.  Being held prisoner in her own house changes things. 

Wonder by R.J. Palacio 

            A boy with a severe facial deformity is finally able to attend public school.  He wants to fit in and make friends, but his first impression is hard to get past.  This book is written on about a 5^th grade level, but is great for everyone.  It would be a terrific family read that could lead to some important discussions about hanicaps and dealing with people who are different.

Flavia de Luce Series by Allen Bradley 

            I love this series. Even after reading the seventh book, I still enjoy the characters and want more.  Flavia is about 12 years old in post WWII England.  Her love of chemistry and uncontrolled curiosity lead her to solving local murders.  Written with wit and skill, these novels are told from Flavia’s point of view adding to the humor.  The author is a talented writer that develops wonderful characters and layers of story lines.

Happy reading this summer.

I'm off to the bookstore!