The Ultimate Summer Reading List for Kids Ages 6 – 8
by Naima Jasmine Russell
School is almost out, which means it’s time for the four S’s: swimsuits, sunblock, summer reading challenges, and don’t forget, “I’m sooooooo boooored … what can I doooo?” If you’re trying to keep kids entertained (without resorting to endless screen time or inflatable backyard disasters), we’ve got you covered.
Summer reading for rising 1st-3rd graders is about finding books that keep them engaged, laughing, and coming back for more while reinforcing skills they learned in class and avoiding that summer slide (another “s”)!
This summer, let’s match books to classic seasonal activities — whether your kiddo spends their days at the pool, explores the backyard, or becomes a lemonade stand CEO. From picture books to illustrated chapter books and graphic novels, here are the best summer reads to keep young minds busy and boredom at bay!
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Serafina Makes Waves
Buy from:Serafina pawsitevly loathes water. She would rather stay safe, warm, and dry, but to her dismay, her parents decide that their dramatic little kitty needs to learn to swim. Serafina’s over-the-top disgust for pools (aka the “disgusting pit of seething water”) makes for hilarious reading as she tries everything to avoid getting wet. But when her beloved stuffed bunny needs rescuing, she bravely dives in and discovers water might not be so terrible after all. Expressive illustrations and playful, larger-than-life language make this book perfect to read to a nervous first-time swimmer. It turns fear into fun and shows kids that trying something new can lead to surprising joy.
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We Dig Fossils
Buy from:If your new reader needs books with basic vocabulary, familiar words, and short sentences, try the Step into Reading series. There are hundreds of books to choose from that cover a variety of interests. We Dig Fossils follows a little girl named Ava, a budding paleontologist, and her family as they search for fossils.
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The Best Worst Camp Out Ever
Buy from:Join a father and son duo as they embark on a journey filled with unexpected mishaps and endless laughs. From a crowded camping ground to rainy nights and failed fishing attempts, nothing seems to go according to plan. But don't be fooled by the surface level chaos, as this delightful early comic teaches us that sometimes, the biggest adventures are the ones that don't go as expected.
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What’s Inside a Bird’s Nest?
Buy from:What’s Inside a Bird’s Nest? gives readers a snapshot of our winged friends from the moment they hatch until they take to the sky. Engaging information, concise text, and detailed illustrations answer curious readers’ questions. Take this book along with What’s Inside a Caterpillar Cocoon? and What’s Inside a Flower? outside on a warm summer day, and enjoy exploring nature.
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At the Cookout
Buy from:School is out, and Cici heads to her Grandma’s house for the first family cookout of the summer. Unfortunately, she can’t find her favorite cousin, Chase, anywhere. Double Dutch, dancing, delicious cookout food, and games of horseshoes fill the yard as Cici searches the party to find Chase in an unlikely place. With vibrant illustrations and a heartfelt reunion at its center, author-illustrator Nadia Fisher delivers a joyful ode to summer cookouts and a sweet reminder that the best part of any celebration is the people you share it with.
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Scaredy Squirrel Goes Camping
Buy from:My kids were introduced to Scaredy Squirrel in his graphic novel series, Scaredy’s Nutty Adventures. But Scaredy also has picture books that are perfect for reading aloud. In Scaredy Squirrel Goes Camping, everyone’s favorite anxious squirrel prefers to enjoy the great outdoors from the comfort of his couch. But when he needs to plug in his TV, he’s forced to leave the safety of his tree and venture into the “wild.” Armed with an over-the-top survival plan and plenty of worries, Scaredy heads outside, only to discover that the outdoors might not be as scary as he imagined.
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Milkshake the Disappearing Milk Snake: A Graphic Novel
Buy from:In book two of the Class Pet Ghost Detective graphic novel series, Carter takes on another case. This time, he searches for a missing class pet snake with help from his snarky ghost sidekick, Mr. Pebbles. When his brother’s milk snake, Milkshake, disappears, the duo follows clues all over the school, from the cafeteria to the teacher’s lounge. Along the way, they team up with other ghostly critters, solve the mystery, and navigate a sibling rivalry. With its rich illustrations, hilarious antics, and just the right amount of spooky fun, this graphic novel is a hit with young readers who love silly mysteries and quirky characters.
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The Super Mario Galaxy Movie: Mario Takes Off!
Buy from:If you have a reluctant reader, spark their interest in books by offering a story with their favorite media characters. The Super Mario Galaxy Movie comes out in April 2026, making this Level 3 Reader perfect for kids starting to build confidence with independent reading. Mario blasts off on a brand-new space adventure alongside Luigi, Princess Peach, and their friends. This full-color reader brings all the action, teamwork, and intergalactic fun to early readers in an easy-to-follow format.
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Gracie Wei: You're a Winner
Buy from:In You’re a Winner, Gracie Wei, a determined fourth grader is on a mission to finally earn her place on the family’s Special Wall by winning the school spelling bee. But when her biggest rival, Elena Yarberry, unexpectedly struggles under pressure, Gracie faces a choice that could cost her the trophy. Through one emotional, high-stakes day, she learns that success isn’t just about awards; it's about empathy, courage, and doing the right thing. It’s perfect for fans of Ivy and Bean or Dory Fantasmagory.
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It Began with Lemonade
Buy from:What’s summer without trying to become a young entrepreneur with your own one-of-a-kind lemonade stand? It's too bad all the other kids on the block have the same idea. So, this spunky heroine takes her lemonade stand on the road, searching for thirsty clientele, and ends up in unexpected places. This is a funny and engaging story about turning lemons into lemonade with a slight twist. The rich, colorful illustrations are jam-packed with funny, comic-book-style details.
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Murray and Bun: Murray the Pirate
Buy from:Murray, the nap-loving cat, and his endlessly enthusiastic bunny friend, Bun, stumble through a magical cat flap and land in a swashbuckling pirate adventure. When they’re captured by the not-so-scary Captain Patch and his crew, the duo must follow a treasure map to Monster Island and (maybe) save the day. Goofy humor, quirky characters, and lively illustrations make this series perfect for fans of pirates and adventure.
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The Adventures of Tubby Nugget: Escape from Nuggetville
Buy from:In Tubby Nugget, a lovable little blob from Planet Nüg faces a big decision: follow tradition or stay true to himself. In Nuggetville, all nuggets grow up, get dipped in gold, and leave fun and freedom behind. Tubby realizes that’s not the life he wants. With his parents’ support, he carves his own path and discovers where he truly belongs.
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The Kids of CattyWampus Street
Buy from:Sideways Stories from Wayside School made for a hilarious one-chapter-a-night family read-aloud for my girls. For fans of this classic and other quirky stories, try The Kids of Cattywampus Street. Each chapter tells a different story about one of the eccentric kids living on a magical, anything-can-happen street. From enchanted toys and granted wishes to bizarre transformations and unexpected twists, this diverse cast of characters keeps readers guessing. It’s an excellent choice for kids who love stories served up with humor and heart, a side of whimsy, and a dash of spookiness.
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Swimming into Trouble
Buy from:Illustrated novels pair the text and storytelling of a short chapter book with the full-color illustrations of a picture book. This makes them a perfect bridge for 6- to 8-year-olds who enjoy picture books but are ready to read longer stories. In Swimming into Trouble, Julia is the youngest swimmer of the Vipers Swim Team and is anxious to prove herself in the pool. Not even an ear infection will keep her from competing.
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Would You Rather? Summer Fun Box Set
Buy from:This set of three “Would You Rather?” books is bursting with questions about favorite summer activities like campfires, whitewater rafting, and pool parties. Readers will find thought-provoking scenarios and games to entertain and challenge kids to think creatively and speak persuasively. While this is listed for 8- to 12-year-olds, it’s a great addition to any family’s summertime activities.
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The Underdogs Catch a Cat Burglar
Buy from:In this hilarious mystery, The Underdog Detective Agency investigates a string of burglaries by a sly cat burglar. To catch the burglar, they do the unthinkable and bring on a brand new detective — a cat! This first title in The Underdogs chapter book series will keep young readers laughing as they try to crack the case. It’s excellent for cat and dog lovers and may inspire little readers to hunt for their own mysteries to solve.
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Looking for summer reading ideas for younger or older kids? Check out our lists for Kids Ages 3 – 5, Ages 9 – 12, and Teens.
You might also like:
- Mystery Books for 6- to 8-Year-Olds
- Summer Learning Loss Prevention Tips for 6- to 8-Year-Olds
- The Best Learning Apps to Keep Kids Engaged All Summer
- Books To Keep Kids Entertained During Summer Road Trips
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2018 and updated in 2026.