At church this morning another homeschool mom asked me if we homeschool year round and my first answer was no, we take a traditional summer break. But then I clarified, “Well, except for history. And electives..and nature study. And I give them a reading list.”
Now I’m not sure. Do we homeschool year round? I still think no. The structure is loose and I have to think even if I public-schooled, I would assign summer reading to my kids. It is true though, summer learning looks very different than our normal routine. We put away math, science, and language arts, slow down, spend long afternoons outside, and lean heavily into the kinds of books that make childhood feel magical.
This is the reading list I put together for my rising second grader and rising fourth grader this summer. I went for a mix of old classics, cozy stories, adventurous tales, historical fiction, and a few modern favorites. Most will be read independently and some aloud together on the couch.
One of my favorite things about homeschooling is that learning doesn’t have to stop just because the school year ends. Stories build vocabulary, imagination, empathy, attention span, and curiosity, all while feeling restful and enjoyable.
And if you’re looking for even more ideas, I’ve linked several other book lists at the bottom of this post too! Without further ado, my lower elementary students assigned summer reading:
Ramona and Beezus by Beverly Cleary
Ages: 6+
Ramona’s big imagination and endless energy often drive her older sister Beezus crazy. Funny, relatable, and timeless, these stories perfectly capture the joys and frustrations of childhood and sibling life.
Tumtum and Nutmeg by Emily Bearn
Ages: 6+
Hidden beneath the floorboards of a cottage, two elegant mice quietly help care for a struggling family. Cozy and charming, this book feels like a tiny mouse-sized adventure wrapped in tea and marmalade.
Five Children and It by E. Nesbit
Ages: 7+
When five siblings discover a grumpy magical sand fairy that grants wishes, they quickly learn that getting exactly what you want can lead to hilarious disasters. A whimsical classic full of imagination and sibling adventures.
Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan
Ages: 7+
A widowed farmer and his two children invite Sarah, a woman from Maine, to come live with them on the prairie. Quiet and beautifully written, the story explores grief, hope, and what makes a family.
Five Little Peppers and How They Grew by Margaret Sidney
Ages: 7+
Despite poverty, the Pepper children fill their home with laughter, hard work, and love. This wholesome classic emphasizes gratitude, kindness, and family togetherness.
The Adventures of Robin Hood by Marcia Williams
Ages: 7+
This lively illustrated retelling introduces Robin Hood and his merry band through comic-style storytelling and playful side notes. A wonderful entry point into classic legends for younger readers.
Frindle by Andrew Clements
Ages: 7+
A clever fifth grader invents a new word for “pen,” accidentally creating a nationwide phenomenon. Funny!
In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson by Bette Bao Lord Ages 8+
Shirley Temple Wong moves from China to Brooklyn and struggles to adapt to a completely new culture. Through baseball and friendship, she slowly finds confidence and belonging in America.
Understood Betsy by Dorothy Canfield Fisher
Ages: 8+
Frail, timid Betsy is sent to live with practical country relatives who teach her independence and confidence. This comforting classic celebrates capability, simplicity, and personal growth.
A Nest for Celeste by Henry Cole
Ages: 8+
A tiny mouse named Celeste befriends a young naturalist working alongside John James Audubon. Gentle and beautifully descriptive, the story blends friendship, nature, and historical fiction.
Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales by Nathan Hale
Ages: 8+
This wildly entertaining graphic novel series brings history to life with humor, action, and surprisingly deep research. Perfect for kids who think they dislike history but love adventure and fast-paced storytelling.
The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo
Ages: 8+
Any Kate DiCamillo book is a good choice. A proud porcelain rabbit is lost again and again, passing through many hands and learning how to love. You will cry.
Half Magic by Edward Eager
Ages: 8+
Four siblings discover a magical coin that only grants half of every wish, leading to ridiculous and unpredictable adventures. Clever, funny, and full of old-fashioned charm.
A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus
Ages: 9+
Set during World War II, three orphaned siblings are evacuated from London to the English countryside and secretly hope to find a forever family. It’s warm, bittersweet, and deeply cozy, with strong themes of resilience, books, and belonging.
The Luminous Life of Lucy Landry by Anna Rose Johnson
Ages: 9+
Lucy is sent to live with relatives on Prince Edward Island during World War II and discovers friendship, family secrets, and her own courage. This story feels gentle and nostalgic, especially for readers who love classic literature and Anne of Green Gables-style settings.
Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
Ages: 9+
Miri and the other girls from her mountain village must attend an academy to prepare for the prince to choose a bride. More thoughtful than flashy, this fantasy focuses on friendship, education, courage, and discovering your own worth.
If you need more book ideas:
Summer reading list for preschoolers
Cozy and Maple 
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