We asked local librarians to tell us their top picks in summer reading for tweens and their recommendations were filled with touching coming-of-age stories, exciting action packed series and more! This list is perfect for keeping kids occupied during family road trips, trips to the beach or pool and settling down after a long day of summer fun. These books will inspire them, teach them and help develop their imagination all season long.
Lightning Thief
A graphic novel series based off the movie Percy Jackson and the Olympians. These books, written by Rick Riordan joins forces with some of the biggest names in comic book history as a boy and his friends journey to bring peace to a warring Mount Olympus.
The Library of Ever
Zeno Alexander creates an instant summer read classic for middle schoolers. This adventurous tale uncovers the hidden secrets among the library’s shelves as she travels across time and space to fight the forces of knowledge.
Shouting at the Rain
Addressing the many issues of tween angst, this relatable tale written by Lynda Mullaly Hunt tells a story of perspective and learning to love the family you have. Learning to cope with a different kind of family, and various life changes. Children will learn right along with the characters what it means to be angry versus sad, broken versus whole, and abandoned versus loved.
The Parker Inheritance
A mystery book children can’t put down! Written by Varian Johnson, this story has received many awards and praises. Part history and part mystery this book is a wonderful lesson this summer in social justice.
Camp
Absolutely perfect for children anxious about stepping outside their comfort zones such as attending summer camp this year. This emotional and honest story written and illustrated by Kayla Miller teaches kids how to navigate new experiences.
The Bridge Home
A captivating and beautifully written novel by Padma Venkatraman tells the story of young people that need to use their instincts and grit to survive. This story highlights the reality of the millions of homeless children and infuses a story of hope and bravery.
Aru Shah (Series)
Best-selling author Roshani Chokshi creates a young adult series about battling demons, travelling through a dangerous serpent realm, and discovering that their enemy isn’t at all who they expected.
Strange Case of Origami Yoda
An honest and funny story that takes place in middle school as a sixth grader folds and origami finger puppet of Yoga and all the transposes. Author Tom Angleberger creates a wildly entertaining book for tweens.
The Whispers
Coming-of-age tale by Greg Howard that makes you believe in magical fairies that grant you wishes if you leave them tributes. The main character going on a journey to find the fairies and bring his mom back but in the process his entire life is shaken up and everything he believes in starts to change.
The City of Ember (Series)
A modern-day classic adventure series about two friends desperate to save their city. Nominated for 28 State Awards and over 3.5 million copies sold. Author Jeanne DuPrau uses rich descriptions to create a realistic post-apocalyptic world.
Read More:
Summer Reading List for Babies
Summer Reading List for Preschoolers
Summer Reading List for Early Elementary
Thank you to the Pawling Free Library, Wallkill Public Library and West Hurley Library for helping us compile this list! Hudson Valley Libraries offer an endless amount of summer adventures for your family this year. Stop into the cool air conditioning, pick up all your favorite books for your summer day trips and don't forget to sign up for a summer reading program and sneak learning into summer fun.
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