As a former book-loving tween, I was captivated by the works of authors like Judy Blume and Beverly Cleary, devouring every title I could find in the local bookstore’s young adult section. Those days of racing through library books and enjoying beloved stories like The Secret Garden and The Westing Game were formative, shaping my love for reading. Today, I’m thrilled to share my favorite picks for summer reading that will inspire and engage today’s tweens, just as they did for me.
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Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh
Imagine Harriet in our digital age—she’d have an anonymous Tumblr filled with her sharp observations. Her secret notebook and the fallout from her spying adventures are relatable for any young reader. The sequel, The Long Secret, follows Harriet and her friend Beth Ellen as they embark on a mystery-solving bike ride in Montauk, making it a perfect summer follow-up. -
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
This mind-bending classic captured my imagination at 11, and I can’t wait to see if it does the same for my niece. The journey of Meg and Charles Wallace through time and space—especially the concept of the tesseract—still astounds me. If your tween enjoys a mix of science and adventure, this book is a must. -
All-of-a-Kind Family by Sydney Taylor
This delightful five-book series about Jewish sisters navigating life in early 20th-century New York is a treasure trove of imagination. I picture my niece reveling in the creative worlds Charlotte and Gertie conjured as they share snacks and dreams. -
From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
While I hope my niece doesn’t decide to run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this enchanting story about two siblings who do certainly sparks a sense of adventure. -
Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
Few books evoke the essence of summer like Bridge to Terabithia. The profound friendship between Jess and Leslie, along with their secret kingdom, brings both magic and heartache, making it a timeless read. -
Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren
Pippi, with her wild red hair and unconventional lifestyle, has always been a role model for freedom and adventure. Her quirky escapades resonate with young readers in ways that feel as vibrant today as they did in my childhood. The sequels, Pippi Goes on Board and Pippi in the South Seas, continue her thrilling adventures.
Each of these books is designed to transport your tween into imaginative worlds, encouraging them to take a break from screens and lose themselves in the pages of a great story. And while you’re fostering a love for reading, don’t forget to check out this guide for boosting fertility and how to introduce dogs and newborns for more enriching content. For those considering pregnancy, this resource on IVF is invaluable.
Summary
This late summer reading list features timeless classics that will engage tweens and spark their imaginations, from Harriet the Spy to Pippi Longstocking. Each selection is a doorway into adventure and creativity, perfect for encouraging young readers to explore beyond the digital world.