Summer is the perfect time to relax, explore new interests, and discover great books. Just 15–20 minutes of reading each day can help students maintain and strengthen the reading skills they worked so hard to build during the school year.
Whether your student enjoys fantasy, mystery, adventure, graphic novels, nonfiction, or realistic fiction, there are countless great books waiting to be discovered.
Three Great Places to Find Your Next Book
1. ALSC Summer Reading List (Librarian Recommended)
The Association for Library Service to Children (ALSC), a division of the American Library Association, publishes annual summer reading lists filled with high-quality, age-appropriate titles selected by children's librarians from across the country. The lists are organized by grade level and include a variety of genres and formats.
Grades 6–8 Summer Reading List
https://www.ala.org/alsc/publications-resources/book-lists/summer-2026
2. Goodreads Middle Grade Favorites (Reader Recommended)
Looking for books that students can't stop talking about? Goodreads is one of the world's largest communities of readers. Their Middle Grade lists feature books that have been rated and reviewed by millions of readers. Popular favorites include series such as Percy Jackson, Harry Potter, Wonder, Amulet, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and many more.
Explore Goodreads Middle Grade Books
https://www.goodreads.com/genres/middle-grade
3. Oregon Battle of the Books (OBOB)
Many AMS students participate in Oregon Battle of the Books, and the OBOB reading lists are packed with engaging, high-interest titles. Reading OBOB books over the summer is a great way to get a head start on next year's competition while enjoying some outstanding literature. The official 2026–27 title list is now available.
2026–27 OBOB Grades 6–8 List
https://www.oregonbattleofthebooks.org/2026-2027-obob-title-list/
Summer Reading Tips
Let students choose books that interest them.
Graphic novels, audiobooks, and ebooks count as reading.
Visit your local library and ask staff for recommendations.
Read with a friend, sibling, or family member.
Set a goal of reading a little each day rather than trying to read for hours at a time.
The most important thing is to find books that are enjoyable. A great book can inspire curiosity, build confidence, and make summer even more memorable.
Happy reading, AMS!
