2022 Summer Reading List for Kids and Teens (100+ Books for Pre-K to Grade 12!)

Some kids love all the free time summer brings, with plenty of opportunities to catch up on new books and old favorites. Other kids wouldn’t crack open a book from June to August if they had the choice, but it’s important to keep them reading. Fortunately, our summer reading list for 2022 has something for every kind of reader—fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, romance, fantasy, adventure, and so much more. Even reluctant readers are sure to find page-turners they won’t be able to put down! For even more suggestions, check out our huge collection of book lists here.

(Just a heads up, WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. We only recommend items our team loves!)

Summer Reading List 2022

Picture Books: Summer Reading List 2022

For pre-readers and emergent readers, this summer reading list for 2022 has selections that feature gorgeous illustrations and captivating stories. These books are perfect for story time, bedtime, or anytime!

Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho

A little Asian girl notices her eyes look different than the other kids she knows, but they look just like those of her beloved mother, grandmother, and sister. This sweet tale about learning to know and love yourself for who you are is a great addition to kids’ summer reading list in 2022.

Buy it: Eyes That Kiss in the Corners at Amazon

Bright Star by Yuyi Morales

Join a young fawn on a journey through the Sonoran desert and the borderlands there. The images are stunning, the story inspiring. (A Spanish edition is also available.)

Buy it: Bright Star at Amazon

Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem by Amanda Gorman

Amanda Gorman inspired the nation with her poem at the 2020 inauguration ceremony. Her children’s book is just as stirring, with gorgeous illustrations kids will love.

Buy it: Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem at Amazon

My Hair Is a Garden by Cozbi A. Cabrera

A young girl learns that her hair’s natural beauty is meant to be treasured as much as the gorgeous plants blooming throughout her neighbor’s yard.

Buy it: My Hair Is a Garden at Amazon

Floaty by John Himmelman

When someone leaves a mysterious basket on grouchy Mr. Raisin’s doorstep, the last thing he expects to be inside is a dog—especially one that floats! What will Mr. Raisin do when Floaty floats away? This is the perfect lighthearted read-aloud for a picnic blanket or summer bedtime.

Buy it: Floaty at Amazon

What If… by Samantha Berger and Mike Curato

Gorgeous illustrations showcase the richness a vivid imagination can add to a child’s life. No matter what they take away from her, they can’t take away her ability to create.

Buy it: What If… at Amazon

Flashlight Night by Matt Forrest Esenwine

One of the best parts of summer is staying up late! The nighttime adventure these children have will inspire students to click on their own flashlights—and their imaginations—and head out into the dark.

Buy it: Flashlight Night at Amazon

Take a Hike, Miles and Spike! by Travis Foster and Ethan Long

Two oblivious dogs pack for an outdoor adventure but have to revise their plans when the other animals call them out for being selfish. Catchy rhymes and Ethan Long’s signature, super-fun illustrations make this silly story a guaranteed hit.

Buy it: Take a Hike, Miles and Spike! at Amazon

I Am Truly by Kelly Greenawalt

Princess Truly can do anything she sets her mind to, from taming lions to dancing on the stars! Be sure to check out the other Princess Truly books too.

Buy it: I Am Truly at Amazon

Big Brown Bear’s Cave by Yuval Zommer

Working through every one of Yuval Zommer’s creative titles would be a great way for students to spend vacation! This one is especially perfect, though, for kids whose parents ask them to help clean out the garage (or attic or basement) during summer break. Based on his observations of humans’ “caves,” Big Brown Bear thinks he needs a lot more stuff to make his own home feel comfy—or does he?

Buy it: Big Brown Bear’s Cave at Amazon

Natsumi! by Susan Lendroth and Priscilla Burris

No one in Natsumi’s family appreciates her extra-energetic approach to preparing for the Japanese arts festival. Her grandfather knows just how to channel all that enthusiasm, though—drumming! Inspire students to march to their own drum this summer.

Buy it: Natsumi! at Amazon

Big Bunny by Rowboat Watkins

Big Bunny loves to eat carrots, along with … lots of other stuff. The zany plot twists will give kids the giggles. The unexpected ending is pure fun.

Buy it: Big Bunny at Amazon

The Magician’s Secret by Zachary Hyman and Joe Bluhm

Sleepovers at Grandpa’s are a highlight of many kids’ summer. When your grandfather is a retired magician with a magic story chest in his attic, though? Well, that’s a guaranteed adventure.

Buy it: The Magician’s Secret at Amazon

Awâsis and the World-Famous Bannock by Dallas Hunt and Amanda Strong

Awâsis is a young Cree girl who’s about to embark on an adventure! Together with her woodland friends, she gathers the ingredients she needs to bake bannock, a traditional bread. This picture book includes Cree terminology and a delicious recipe to try too!

Buy it: Awâsis and the World-Famous Bannock at Amazon

Noodlephant by Jacob Kramer and K-Fai Steele

Noodlephant loves pasta—hence her nickname. When the kangaroos start making one unfair law after another, Noodlephant stands up for everyone’s right to enjoy pasta. Check out the sequel, too: Okapi Tale.

Buy it: Noodlephant at Amazon

Hooray for Hat! by Brian Won

There’s a pervasive dark cloud of grumpiness among the animal friends, until they start gifting hats to one another. Also, check out follow-ups Hooray for Books! and Hooray for Today!

Buy it: Hooray for Hat! at Amazon

Boxitects by Kim Smith

Boxitect. Blanketeer. Spaghetti-tect. Kids will want to be all of them! After you read, use the cardboard box-creation inspiration to build some castles of your own.

Buy it: Boxitects at Amazon

National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Where by Jill Esbaum

This medley of explanations will answer curious kids’ questions about the tallest mountains, the biggest rivers, and even fun facts like where ice cream was invented. Use it to take a vacation when you can’t leave home!

Buy it: National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Where at Amazon

Hello Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall

Unique and detailed illustrations will sweep students back in time in this narrative nonfiction account of a lighthouse keeper’s year. What would it be like to live “on the highest rock of a tiny island at the edge of the world”?

Buy it: Hello Lighthouse at Amazon

Sisters & Champions: The True Story of Venus and Serena Williams by Howard Bryant

This story of the sisters that redefined expectations of what kids from a tough Los Angeles neighborhood can achieve is a summer inspiration that’s a perfect addition to your summer reading list in 2022. Floyd Cooper’s illustrations are a delight.

Buy it: Sisters and Champions: The True Story of Venus and Serena Williams at Amazon

What if You Had an Animal Tail? by Sandra Markle and Howard McWilliam

A perfect pairing for a summer outing to the zoo, this fun series will have kids laughing as they learn about animal adaptations and the human body. This one focuses on tails; read the others to learn about animal ears, hair, and more.

Buy it: What if You Had an Animal Tail? at Amazon

A Different Pond by Bao Phi

Journey to another land with this 2018 Caldecott Honor book. Follow along as a father teaches his son about their native country, Vietnam.

Buy it: A Different Pond at Amazon

Finding the Music/En pos de la música by Jennifer Torres

When Reyna accidentally breaks her abuelito’s special instrument, a vihuela, she’s heartbroken—and determined to get it fixed. This touching title celebrates family bonds, mariachi music, and the power of community.

Buy it: Finding the Music/En pos de la música at Amazon

Lost and Found Cat: The True Story of Kunkush’s Incredible Journey by Doug Kuntz and Amy Shrodes

In this true story, an Iraqi family brings their beloved family cat when they leave their home as refugees, only to have it get lost during the boat crossing to Greece. A worldwide reunification effort leads to a happy ending.

Buy it: Lost and Found Cat at Amazon

The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop by Carole Boston Weatherford

This fascinating and artful trip through musical history will fascinate kids (and adults too). Learn about how artists from so many domains—storytelling, poetry, funk, street art, breakdancing, deejaying, and more—helped rap and hip-hop become what they are today.

Buy it: The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop at Amazon

Easy Read/Early Chapter Books: Summer Reading List 2022

Chapter books give readers who are still mastering the skill even more practice. Our summer reading list 2022 choices are excellent for read-alouds too, whether it’s parents reading to kids or kids reading to parents (or kids reading to each other!).

Ada Twist and the Perilous Pants by Andrea Beaty

Readers who loved Ada Twist’s picture book will love following her on her chapter book adventures! Pals Rosie Revere and Iggy Peck join her as she works to solve a mystery in her own backyard.

Buy it: Ada Twist and the Perilous Pants at Amazon

She Persisted: Maria Tallchief by Christine Day

Looking for inspiring stories of strong women? The She Persisted series is full of them. In this one, young readers learn about America’s first major prima ballerina, who was also a member of the Osage Nation.

Buy it: She Persisted: Maria Tallchief at Amazon

Baby Monkey, Private Eye, by Brian Selznick and David Serlin

Emergent readers will love the adorable—and often pantless—young primate detective in this collection of five simple “mysteries.” Clever illustrations elevate the simple text.

Buy it: Baby Monkey, Private Eye at Amazon

Donut Feed the Squirrels by Mika Song

Norma and Belly are hungry squirrels who desperately want a nut—a donut! They’re foiled at every turn, though, and their silly adventure will keep kids giggling throughout this early-reader graphic novel.

Buy it: Donut Feed the Squirrels at Amazon

Polly Diamond and the Magic Book by Alice Kuipers and Diana Toledano

When Polly discovers that a magic book that appeared on her doorstep can make everything she writes actually happen, she wastes no time trying it out—with entertaining results. If you enjoy this one, be sure to check out the sequel, Polly Diamond and the Super Stunning Spectacular Book Fair.

Buy it: Polly Diamond and the Magic Book at Amazon

Jo Jo Makoons: The Used-to-Be Best Friend by Dawn Quigley

Jo Jo Makoons lives on an Ojibwe reservation with her family, where her #1 best friend is her cat, Mimi. But her #1 human friend, Fern, doesn’t seem to want to be friends anymore. What will Jo Jo Makoons do?

Buy it: Jo Jo Makoons: The Used-to-Be Best Friend at Amazon

The Poet’s Dog by Patricia MacLachlan

Teddy, a dog who has recently lost his elderly owner, narrates this tender tale. Now alone in his owner’s cabin, he rescues two children caught in a winter storm and experiences the healing power of companionship. A perfect story for any young dog lover!

Buy it: The Poet’s Dog at Amazon

Arlo & Pips: King of the Birds by Elise Gravel

Arlo the crow is smart, and he knows it. Fortunately, his little friend Pips isn’t afraid to put him in his place! This funny graphic novel includes plenty of true facts about crows mixed in with the story and is a fantastic book to put on your summer reading list in 2022.

Buy it: Arlo & Pips: King of the Birds at Amazon

Scaredy Bat and the Missing Jellyfish  by Marina J. Bowman

Mystery-loving kids will fall in love with Scaredy Bat! This detective series is filled with colorful graphics to help younger readers follow along as a child vampire attempts to solve mysteries with her pals.

Buy it: Scaredy Bat and the Missing Jellyfish at Amazon

Baloney and Friends by Greg Pizzoli

Kids will get a kick out of reading about the adventures of Baloney and his friends Peanut, Bizz, and Krabbit! Plus, they can follow the tutorial at the end of the book to learn how to draw comics of their own.

Buy it: Baloney and Friends at Amazon

Pick Your Own Quest: Dragon vs. Unicorn by Connor Hoover

The Pick Your Own Quest series is what summer reading dreams are made of! Reminiscent of the beloved Choose Your Own Adventure books of the 1980s, these stories are different each time you read. Find them all here.

Buy it: Pick Your Own Quest: Dragon vs. Unicorn at Amazon

Meet Yasmin! by Saadia Faruqi and Hatem Aly

Yasmin is a sassy second-grader from a Pakistani-American family. She tackles real-life challenges with spirit and imagination in a book filled with winning illustrations that bring the stories to life.

Buy it: Meet Yasmin! at Amazon

Power Forward by Hena Kahn

Summer is the perfect time to get hooked on a new sports fiction series. This introduction to the Chasing the Dream series introduces Zayd Saleem, a likable fourth grader who’s also a basketball fanatic.

Buy it: Power Forward at Amazon

Pizza and Taco by Stephen Shaskan

What’s better, pizza or tacos? That’s the big question in this graphic novel for emergent readers—except Pizza and Taco have come to life!

Buy it: Pizza and Taco at Amazon

West Meadows Detectives: The Case of Maker Mischief by Liam O’Donnell and Aurélie Grand

This title is the second in a series starring Myron, a young sleuth who speaks frankly and positively about his autism. We love how his quirks play off those of his sidekicks as they work together to find a classmate’s stolen robot.

Buy it: West Meadows Detectives: The Case of Maker Mischief at Amazon

Agent Moose by Mo O’Hara and Jess Bradley

Folks keep going missing on the South Shore in this graphic novel. No worries though—Agent Moose and his sidekick Owlfred are on the case!

Buy it: Agent Moose at Amazon

I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916 (I Survived Series) by Lauren Tarshis

The heart-pounding adventure of these stories based on real-life events is sure to capture every kid’s imagination. Check out the whole series here.

Buy it: I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916 (I Survived Series) at Amazon

Bunbun and Bonbon: Fancy Friends by Jess Keating

Bunbun is as cute as can be, but awfully lonely. Fortunately, fancy candy Bonbon is ready to step in! Their sweet adventures fill the pages of this easy-reader graphic novel.

Buy it: Bunbun and Bonbon: Fancy Friends at Amazon

InvestiGators by John Patrick Green

Welcome to the underground (literally!) world of Special Undercover Investigation Teams (S.U.I.T.). Gator agents Mango and Brash travel the sewers by toilet as they solve cases in this hilarious graphic novel for young readers.

Buy it: InvestiGators at Amazon

Pea, Bee, & Jay: Stuck Together by Brian “Smitty” Smith

Pea loves to roll and can’t resist a dare to roll right off the farm where he lives. But an unexpected storm sends him farther than he expected. Will his new friends Bee and Jay be able to help him find his way back home?

Buy it: Pea, Bee, & Jay: Stuck Together at Amazon

Middle Grade: Summer Reading List 2022

Middle grade readers are ready for longer books with more advanced vocabulary. We’ve picked a variety of genres for our summer reading list for 2022, from historical fiction to mystery, fantasy adventures to realistic modern tales.

The Beatryce Prophecy by Kate DiCamillo

This is one of the most popular books of the last year, and it belongs on every middle grader’s summer reading list for 2022. Mysterious Beatryce might be the girl foretold in a prophecy, and it puts her life in danger. The magical medieval setting captures the imagination, as do the intriguing cast of characters.

Buy it: The Beatryce Prophecy at Amazon

The Many Meanings of Meilan by Andrea Wang

At Meilan’s new school, the principal decides she should go by Melanie to make it easier for the other (White) students to pronounce. This sets Meilan off on a journey to find out more about her own name—and herself.

Buy it: The Many Meanings of Meilan at Amazon

A Girl, a Raccoon, and the Midnight Moon by Karen Romano Young and Jessixa Bagley

Award-winning author Karen Romano Young spins a clever caper around a group of tweens trying to crack a case that may help them prevent their beloved local library from closing.

Buy it: A Girl, a Raccoon, and the Midnight Moon at Amazon

Home Sweet Motel (Welcome to Wonderland #1) by Chris Grabenstein

In this offering from a favorite middle grade author, P.T. Wilkie and his friend Gloria try to save his family’s Wonderland motel—a kid’s paradise—from financial ruin. Readers will be cheering them on as they laugh at P.T.’s tendency to “embellish” stories, the pair’s crazy moneymaking strategies, and their wild attempts to solve an unexpected mystery that crops up. Read more of their adventures in the rest of the Welcome to Wonderland series.

Buy it: Home Sweet Motel (Welcome to Wonderland #1) at Amazon

Ellie, Engineer, by Jackson Pearce

Friends, creativity, and girl-powered STEM: A story about a neighborhood building project is a perfect summer read, especially when led by Ellie, armed with her trusty tool belt. There are two more Ellie books to enjoy, too!

Buy it: Ellie, Engineer at Amazon

Trapped in a Video Game by Dustin Brady

An unknown villain imprisons Jessie in his least favorite activity—a video game. And if he can’t figure out how to beat this mysterious culprit, he’ll be stuck in the virtual world. Love Jessie? There’s a whole series about him!

Buy it: Trapped in a Video Game at Amazon

The Season of Styx Malone by Kekla Magoon

Brothers Bobby Gene and Caleb were minding their own business in their small Indiana town when Styx Malone rolled in. Styx is older and wiser and teaches the boys how to pull off an escalator trade, getting better and better stuff until they get something incredible. This book is full of hilarious antics and sweet brotherly relationships.

Buy it: The Season of Styx Malone at Amazon

The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian’s Art Changed Science by Joyce Sidman

Maria Merian was a brave and passionate scientific mind, well ahead of her time. Her story will inspire kids to head outside to look for butterflies and caterpillars in their own garden or nearby park.

Buy it: The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian’s Art Changed Science at Amazon

The World According to Humphrey by Betty G. Birney

Humphrey is Room 26’s class pet: a lovable hamster! Follow his adventures as he gets to know his human companions. There’s a whole According to Humphrey series featuring this fluffy cutie, too.

Buy it: The World According to Humphrey at Amazon

Pony on the Twelfth Floor by Polly Faber

Kizzy’s desire to own a horse gets the best of her in this humorous tale about trying to own—and hide—a pony in an apartment building.

Buy it: Pony on the Twelfth Floor at Amazon

Funny Girl: Funniest. Stories. Ever. edited by Betsy Bird

What do you get when 25 of today’s funniest women children’s book writers combine their stories together in one book? A hilarious collection that will make you laugh until you cry! Bonus: A portion of the proceeds from this book goes to support WriteGirl, a nonprofit whose mission is to empower girls by promoting creativity and self-expression.

Buy it: Funny Girl: Funniest. Stories. Ever. at Amazon

Blended by Sharon M. Draper

A biracial tween must split time equally living with each of her divorced parents (who are both now dating other people and have vastly different income levels). Many kids will see their own lives reflected in her lifestyle-switching tale.

Buy it: Blended at Amazon

Spy School Revolution by Stuart Gibbs

The latest book in this teacher-recommended series features Superspy-in-training Ben Dash trying to prove his friend Erica is not a double agent. To do so, he’ll have to track down an insurgent group that dates back to colonial times. See the whole Spy School series here.

Buy it: Spy School Revolution at Amazon

The Orphan Band of Springdale by Anne Nesbet

Kids who love historical fiction will enjoy this World War II story of life on the home front. Eleven-year-old Gusta moves from New York City to live with her grandmother in Maine, where there’s plenty of small-town drama.

Buy it: The Orphan Band of Springdale at Amazon

Grump: The (Fairly) True Tale of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves by Liesl Shurtliff

We love this author’s entertaining way of turning classic fairy tales on their heads for middle grade readers. A young dwarf is torn between the appeal of new friendship and a nagging suspicion that Queen Elfrieda Veronika Ingrid Lenore (E.V.I.L.) has dark intentions.

Buy it: Grump: The (Fairly) True Tale of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves at Amazon

Absolutely Truly (A Pumpkin Falls Mystery) by Heather Vogel Frederick

Truly Lovejoy’s family moved from Texas to a tiny town in New Hampshire to take over their family’s century-old bookstore. Left largely to her own devices, Truly finds herself chasing down clues found in old books. There are sequels, too: Yours Truly and Really Truly.

Buy it: Absolutely Truly (A Pumpkin Falls Mystery) at Amazon

The Stars Beneath Our Feet  by David Barclay Moore

Working with LEGO bricks provides Lolly with a creative and healing form of expression after his older brother is a victim of gang violence. This is a story about learning to throw away the directions and make your own way in the world.

Buy it: The Stars Beneath Our Feet  at Amazon

The Creature of the Pines (The Unicorn Rescue Society) by Adam Gidwitz

A society for caring for mythical creatures is a surefire hook, but this series by a talented middle-grade author backs up its hype with compelling characters and clever plot twists. Love it? Here’s the rest of the series, currently up to six books.

Buy it: The Creature of the Pines (The Unicorn Rescue Society) at Amazon

Book Scavenger by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman

The Book Scavenger Series mystery tales all begin with clues found on Book Scavenger, a fictional geocaching-style game where participants hide books in public places and reveal the locations through encoded clues. Emily and James embark on three rollicking, heart-thumping adventures in and around San Francisco. Don’t be surprised if kids want to set up their own scavenger adventures after they read!

Buy it: Book Scavenger at Amazon

Aline and the Blue Bottle by Carolina Ugaz-Morán

A Halloween birthday party turns into the beginning of a quest for a young girl who finds out she has magical powers and has to locate a hidden artifact.

Buy it: Aline and the Blue Bottle at Amazon

The Sea in Winter by Christine Day

Masie Cannon was a ballet dancer in training until a serious leg injury knocked her off her feet. Now she’s preparing for a winter road trip to the Native American community where her mother grew up, but she’s anything but excited. Can her family help heal her heart?

Buy it: The Sea in Winter at Amazon

You Go First by Erin Entrada Kelly

Charlotte and Ben may only know each other through an online Scrabble game, but they’re both busy finding their way through middle school. Though they live far apart, their friendship grows in unexpected ways as they spend one eventful week supporting each other through family troubles and school challenges.

Buy it: You Go First at Amazon

Hide and Seeker by Daka Hermon

Beat the summer heat by sending chills down your spine! In this thriller, a group of tweens is drawn into waking versions of their own nightmares in a spooky game of hide-and-seek.

Buy it: Hide and Seeker at Amazon

The Mother-Daughter Book Club by Heather Vogel Frederick

Imagine your mom got together with a group of other moms and decided to form a book club, and you and your middle school acquaintances have no choice but to join. A group reading of Little Women makes unlikely friends out of the four girls, leading to a whole Mother-Daughter Book Club series.

Buy it: The Mother-Daughter Book Club at Amazon

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

In the summer of 1968, the Gaither sisters travel from Brooklyn to Oakland, California, to spend a few months with their mother. Much to their surprise, their mother isn’t exactly excited to see them and instead wants them to spend the summer at a Black Panther camp.

Buy it: One Crazy Summer at Amazon

The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson

A puzzling letter sends Candice on a summer quest to find treasure and clear her grandmother’s name. Reviewers compare this historical mystery to Ellen Raskin’s classic The Westing Game.

Buy it: The Parker Inheritance at Amazon

Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen!  by Sarah Kapit

Vivy Cohen has wanted to be a baseball pitcher ever since she met pro ballplayer VJ Capello. But things aren’t so simple for Vivy: she has autism, and her mom says she can’t play baseball because she’s a girl. That doesn’t stop Vivy from being invited to join a Little League team. And when Vivy writes a letter to VJ, she’s surprised to get a reply.

Buy it: Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen! at Amazon

Race to the Bottom of the Sea by Lindsay Eagar

Fidelia Quail’s life assisting in her parents’ marine biology research is already unusual. But when they drown in a storm and she’s kidnapped by pirates, this story catapults into page-turning summer-adventure territory.

Buy it: Race to the Bottom of the Sea at Amazon

The Sky at Our Feet by Nadia Hashimi

Summer is for compelling page-turners and characters that move you. Everything changes for Jason when he finds out that his Afghan mother, whom he thought was deported, is living illegally in the United States.

Buy it: The Sky at Our Feet at Amazon

The Shakespeare Stealer by Gary Blackwood

Travel back in time to experience life backstage at the Globe Theatre. An orphan named Widge is tasked with stealing the script for Hamlet, but as he gets to know the actors and the great playwright himself, he must decide where his loyalty lies. If you enjoy it, there’s a follow-up book, Shakespeare’s Scribe.

Buy it: The Shakespeare Stealer at Amazon

Premeditated Myrtle by Elizabeth C. Bunce

The first book of the new Myrtle Hardcastle Mysteries is a clever caper about a budding tween criminologist attempting to solve a local murder.

Buy it: Premeditated Myrtle at Amazon

Hatchet (Brian’s Saga) by Gary Paulsen

This classic survival novel now has four sequels, making up Brian’s Saga. Hatchet is the one that started it all: thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson is traveling by single-engine plane to visit his father when the plane crashes, killing the pilot. Brian is alone in the Canadian wilderness with nothing but his clothing, a tattered windbreaker, and the hatchet his mother gave him as a present.

Buy it: Hatchet (Brian’s Saga) at Amazon

Young Adult: Summer Reading List 2022

By high school, kids probably have some required summer reading to do. But when they just want to read for fun, our summer reading list 2022 suggestions give them a wide array of choices. They delve into topics relevant to teen life: bullying, first love, friendships, and more. There are also some choices that are pure escapes from reality!

In the Wild Light by Jeff Zentner

Best friends Cash and Delaney escape their difficult lives in a small town and head to an elite prep school in New England where they’ve both earned scholarships. But do they really want to leave their pasts behind entirely? Their relationship evolves as they try to discover the answer.

Buy it: In the Wild Light at Amazon

Gilded by Marissa Meyer

Fairy tales are for little kids, right? Not this dark retelling of Rumpelstiltskin! Magic and mystery meet romance in this gripping tale.

Buy it: Gilded at Amazon

The Desolations of Devil’s Acre by Ransom Riggs

If you’ve been following the saga of Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children, you won’t want to miss the final novel in the series. If you missed the first five, summer is the perfect time to catch up!

Buy it: The Desolations of Devil’s Acre at Amazon

The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

This fantasy novel set in an orphanage for unique magical children is anything but childish. The characters, including a young gnome, a green blob, and Linus (the child Antichrist), are surprisingly real, and their quest for acceptance in a nearby town is a charming allegory for tolerance in our own world.

Buy it: The House in the Cerulean Sea at Amazon

All the Things We Never Knew by Liara Tamani

Two teens fall in and out of love in this romance-centered YA book that’s just as much a love letter to basketball as to first love itself.

Buy it: All the Things We Never Knew at Amazon

Ghost Wood Song by Erica Waters

A teen fiddler uses her secret ability to summon ghosts from their graves in order to help her brother in this new YA read that also includes LGBTQ+ romance as a subplot.

Buy it: Ghost Wood Song at Amazon

All of This Is True by Lygia Day Peñaflor

When four teens meet their favorite novelist, they’re thrilled at their new friendship. But then their deepest secrets appear in her next book, and the consequences are dire. This contemporary YA mystery is also available in Spanish—ideal for bilingual teens looking for a suspense-filled narrative in their native language.

Buy it: All of This Is True at Amazon

Watch Us Rise by Renee Watson & Ellen Hagan

Jasmine and Chelsea are ready to make changes for women at their high school. They use their literary talents to form a Women’s Rights Club, which soon goes viral. Online trolls lead to trouble, but these best friends are determined to triumph.

Buy it: Watch Us Rise at Amazon

Monday’s Not Coming by Tiffany D. Jackson

When Monday Charles goes missing, her best friend Claudia is the only one who seems to even notice she’s missing. When no one can give her the answers she needs, Claudia goes on a quest to find them herself, no matter how difficult they may be to accept.

Buy it: Monday’s Not Coming at Amazon

The Best Lies by Sarah Lyu

When her best friend Elise shoots Remy’s boyfriend Jack, Remy is left to question the truth about what happened. Obsession is the driving force behind this fast-paced plot surrounding two besties’ warped connection.

Buy it: The Best Lies at Amazon

Where the Dead Sit Talking by Brandon Hobson

This 2018 National Book Award Fiction finalist is a poignant tale about the bond two teenagers form in foster care while also trying to retain a connection to their shared Native American culture.

Buy it: Where the Dead Sit Talking at Amazon

The Black Veins by Ashia Monet

A teen barista must seek out six fellow magicians to help save her family in the first book of this fantasy series.

Buy it: The Black Veins at Amazon

If You’re Out There by Katy Loutzenhiser

Social media is the only lead two high schoolers have when they begin to investigate the disappearance of a friend who seems to have vanished.

Buy it: If You’re Out There at Amazon

They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera

On September 5, a little after midnight, Death-Cast calls Mateo Torrez and Rufus Emeterio to give them some bad news: they’re going to die today. Mateo and Rufus are total strangers, but for different reasons, they both want to make a new friend on their End Day. Luckily, there’s an app for that. It’s called The Last Friend. Through it, Rufus and Mateo meet up to try to live a lifetime in a single day.

Buy it: They Both Die at the End at Amazon

When You Were Everything by Ashley Woodfolk

What happens when life-long best friends are now ex-besties? Cleo and Layla’s friendship may be over, but the story doesn’t end there.

Buy it: When You Were Everything at Amazon

White Rabbit by Caleb Roehrig

Ex-boyfriend drama ends up being the least of Rufus’s worries after he finds his sister at a crime scene—and has only one night to prove her innocence.

Buy it: White Rabbit at Amazon

The Sound of Stars  by Alechia Dow

Janelle “Ellie” Baker is a teen rebel stuck in an alien-controlled quadrant of New York City in this sci-fi adventure about living, and falling in love, on an Earth that humans no longer control.

Buy it: The Sound of Stars  at Amazon

Windfall by Jennifer E. Smith

Alice doesn’t believe in luck—at least not the good kind. But she does believe in love, and for some time now, she’s been pining for her best friend, Teddy. On his 18th birthday—just when it seems they might be on the brink of something—she buys him a lottery ticket on a lark. To their astonishment, he wins $140 million, and in an instant, everything changes.

Buy it: Windfall at Amazon

If These Wings Could Fly by Kyrie McCauley

Tens of thousands of crows have invaded Auburn, Pennsylvania. It’s an issue for everyone in town except 17-year-old Leighton Barnes. For Leighton, it’s no stranger than her house, which inexplicably repairs itself every time her father loses his temper and breaks things. Leighton’s senior year is filled with shades of the past and anticipation of the future, all while dealing with the confusing events of the present.

Buy it: If These Wings Could Fly at Amazon

Because I Was a Girl: True Stories for Girls of All Ages by Melissa de la Cruz

This multicultural collection outlines the real-life struggles of authors, chefs, and STEM professionals faced because of their female identity. Girls and boys alike can benefit from these true stories.

Buy it: Because I Was a Girl: True Stories for Girls of All Ages at Amazon

All Boys Aren’t Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto by George M. Johnson

The author explores the intersectionality of being male, a person of color, and queer in contemporary society. It’s one of our favorite #OneVoices nonfiction books.

Buy it: All Boys Aren’t Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto at Amazon

Kent State by Deborah Wiles

High school history fans will be riveted by this compelling account of the Kent State shootings of 1970 when American troops killed four college students who were protesting the Vietnam war. Multiple viewpoints recount the events of that terrifying weekend, with consequences that still resonate today.

Buy it: Kent State at Amazon

Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers by Deborah Heiligman

You’ve heard of Vincent van Gogh, but do you know about Theo? Heiligman chronicles the amazing and eccentric lives of the Van Gogh brothers, their relationship with each other, and their work.

Buy it: Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers at Amazon

Graphic Novels: Summer Reading List 2022

Graphic novels are a real boon for reluctant readers and visual learners. Today’s graphic lit has taken on a life of its own. These books draw kids in with beautiful art, then engage them with compelling narratives. That’s why graphic novels are a big part of our summer reading list for 2022, for kids of every age.

Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea! (Narwhal and Jelly #1) by Ben Clanton

You can’t help but smile at Narwhal’s enthusiasm in this graphic novel series opener about new friendship—he’s just so darn cheerful all the time. Plenty of quirky details will make kids chuckle, like Narwhal’s invitations to a mishmash of sea creatures to join his “pod of awesomeness” (and the cute horns he awards to each new member), or his and Jelly’s unlikely shared love of waffles. (Gr. K-3)

Buy it: Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea! (Narwhal and Jelly #1) at Amazon

Monsters Beware! (The Chronicles of Claudette) by Jorge Aguirre and Rafael Rosado

This is the third installment of this engaging graphic novel series for the upper elementary audience. Claudette is desperate to compete in—and win—the annual Warrior Games. She’ll have to contend with monsters who reportedly eat the other competitors, though! (Gr. 2-5)

Buy it: Monsters Beware! (The Chronicles of Claudette) at Amazon

Measuring Up by Lily LaMotte and Ann Xu

Kids who love to watch cooking competitions will want to add this to their summer reading list for 2022. Cici needs to raise money to bring her grandmother from Taiwan to visit her in Seattle. Winning a cooking contest might just be the answer! (Gr. 2-6)

Buy it: Measuring Up at Amazon

Blancaflor: The Hero With Secret Powers by Nadja Spiegelman and Sergio García Sánchez

This retelling of a classic Latin American folktale has been popping up on “Best of” lists everywhere, so of course we had to add it to our summer reading list for 2022. Celebrate the resourcefulness of women with this magical story that will really resonate with modern kids. (Gr. 3-6)

Buy it: Blancaflor: The Hero With Secret Powers at Amazon

Max and the Midknights by Lincoln Peirce

Fast-paced and witty, this graphic novel stars wannabe knight Max and her band of buddies. Run-ins with a sorceress, wizards, dragons, and plenty more exaggerated action keep readers interested, and the plentiful quips keep them laughing, too. (Gr. 3-6)

Buy it: Max and the Midknights at Amazon

Act (A Click Graphic Novel) by Kayla Miller

Olive can’t wait for the sixth grade field trip, but it turns out an unjust school policy will keep some kids from attending. So Olive decides to run for student council and be the change she wants to see in the world! See other graphic novels in the Click series here. (Gr. 3-6)

Buy it: Act (A Click Graphic Novel) at Amazon

When Stars Are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed

This graphic novel tells the story of two brothers from Somalia growing up in a refugee camp in Kenya. Based on the experiences of Somali refugee Omar Mohamed, this book will stay with readers long after they close it. (Gr. 4-6)

Buy it: When Stars Are Scattered at Amazon

Real Friends by Shannon Hale and LeUyen Pham

This relatable story is all about what it’s like when friendships grow and change when you’re not quite ready for it. It addresses issues like bullying and self-confidence, and the complexities of navigating relationships. (Gr. 3-6)

Buy it: Real Friends at Amazon

The Cardboard Kingdom by Chad Sell

Make-believe definitely isn’t just for little kids. This engaging graphic novel will inspire middle grade readers to spend summer break building and creating with friends. There’s a sequel too: Roar of the Beast. (Gr. 3-6)

Buy it: The Cardboard Kingdom at Amazon

Sanity & Tallulah by Molly Brooks

Sanity and Tallulah live on a space station, which is enough to excite the imagination all on its own. But these irrepressible mad scientist tweens have plenty of mischief up their sleeves. Read the first book, then follow up with the others in the Sanity & Tallulah series. (Gr. 3-6)

Buy it: Sanity & Tallulah at Amazon

Class Act by Jerry Craft

This is the illustrated sequel to Craft’s New Kid, which won the 2020 Newbery Medal, the Coretta Scott King Author Award, and the Kirkus Prize. They both explore what it’s like to be one of the few students of color at a prestigious private school. (Gr. 3-6)

Buy it: Class Act at Amazon

Séance Tea Party by Reimena Yee

This whimsical story explores the challenges of leaving childhood behind. Follow a girl still yearning for playtime while she slowly finds herself with only a ghost left as a friend. This bittersweet tale will really resound with middle grade readers. (Gr. 3-6)

Buy it: Séance Tea Party at Amazon

Primer by Thomas Krajewski, Jennifer Muro, and Gretel Lusky

Ashley Rayburn has discovered body paints that turn her into a superhero! Now she has to decide whether to keep them (and her powers) or return them to the agency that made them. (Gr. 3-6)

Buy it: Primer at Amazon

Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy by Rey Terciero and Bre Indigo

Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women has a timeless appeal for many readers. This graphic novel modernizes the story with a blended family living in a walk-up in NYC. The characters have familiar personalities, even if their stories are a little different. (Gr. 3-6)

Buy it: Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy at Amazon

Science Comics: Robots & Drones: Past, Present, and Future by Mairghread Scott and Jacob Chabot

The Science Comics series is awesome for motivating middle grade readers while teaching about high-interest topics. This title is excellent screen-free entertainment for tech-loving kids. (Gr. 4-8)

Buy it: Science Comics: Robots & Drones: Past, Present, and Future at Amazon

Maker Comics: Grow a Garden! by Alexis Frederick-Frost

The Maker Comics series is a fantastic DIY collection for tweens and teens. Grow a Garden! seems like a great summer project, while other selections include things like learning to draw a comic or fix a car. (Gr. 4-8)

Buy it: Maker Comics: Grow a Garden! at Amazon

This Was Our Pact by Ryan Andrews

Each year, Ben’s town turns out for the Autumn Equinox Festival and sends lighted lanterns floating off down the river. This year, Ben and his friends are determined to follow them wherever the path leads. (Gr. 5-8)

Buy it: This Was Our Pact at Amazon

The Oracle Code by Marieke Nijkamp and Manuel Preitano

Barbara Gordon’s entire life changes when a gunshot wound leaves her paralyzed from the waist down. During her time at a rehab center, she encounters a mystery: patients keep going missing. As Barbara works to find the answers, she learns important truths about herself. (Gr. 6-8)

Buy it: The Oracle Code at Amazon

Poe: Stories and Poems (A Graphic Novel Adaptation) by Gareth Hinds

Poe’s spooky works are the perfect basis for graphic storytelling. Horror-story fans will love this new take on classics like The Raven and The Cask of Amontillado. (Gr. 8-12)

Buy it: Poe: Stories and Poems (A Graphic Novel Adaptation) at Amazon

Himawari House by Harmony Becker

Three foreign exchange students meet in Japan and forge a fast friendship as they navigate life in a new world. (Gr. 9-12)

Buy it: Himawari House at Amazon

Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me by Mariko Tamaki

Frederica Riley’s relationship with popular girl Laura Dean is toxic—and maybe all too familiar to high schoolers. Freddy falls under her spell again and again until she finally learns what’s truly important in relationships, including friendships. (Gr. 9-12)

Buy it: Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me at Amazon

Dragon Hoops by Gene Luen Yang

When Gene was growing up, his heroes were in comic books—not on the court or playing field. As a high school teacher, though, he starts to realize how important sports are to many of his students, and the basketball team’s journey to the State Championship holds inspiring lessons for kids and adults alike. (Gr. 9-12)

Buy it: Dragon Hoops at Amazon

March: Book One by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell

The first installment of this graphic novel series recounts the late senator’s first encounters with Dr. Martin Luther King and the beginning of the Nashville Student Movement as civil action to desegregate the South was steadily gaining traction. (Gr. 9-12)

Buy it: March: Book One at Amazon

What books are on your summer reading list for 2022? We’d love to hear about them in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, learn why summer reading is so important for kids and get tools to help motivate them.