Free Summer Reading List for Kids Printable

Print off a free summer reading list for kids printable. Discover 6 different book categories to help kids find new ideas for what to read in the summertime.

Summertime is the perfect opportunity for kids to dive into exciting books! But with so many choices, where do they start? Our free printable summer reading list for kids makes it easy and fun. It helps kids track their progress while encouraging them to explore different types of books.

What Is This Printable?

This summer reading list for kids printable is a one-page checklist designed to make reading more enjoyable. Instead of choosing random books, kids will find six different categories to complete:

• A funny book
• A mystery book
• A biography
• A book that is on a library or store display
• A nonfiction book
• A book about summer

Each category introduces children to different genres and topics. They can check off each one as they finish reading. It’s simple, engaging, and perfect for all reading levels!

Why You’ll Love This Idea

First, it encourages kids to read a variety of books. Many children tend to stick with one genre, but this checklist introduces them to different styles of writing and subjects. It keeps reading fresh and exciting!

Second, it makes summer reading a fun challenge. Kids love checking off lists! This printable turns reading into a game, keeping them motivated and excited to complete all six categories before summer ends. My kids love when we determine a prize before starting!

How to Use the Printable

Using this summer reading list for kids printable is easy. Just download and print the checklist. Then, let kids choose books that fit each category.

If you’re looking for ideas, try these:

• Funny book – Look for joke books, humorous graphic novels, or silly chapter books.
• Mystery book – Find an age-appropriate detective story or adventure with a twist.
• Biography – Choose a book about a famous person, like an athlete, scientist, or musician.
• Library or store display book – Encourage kids to browse for something new!
• Nonfiction book – Pick a book about space, animals, history, or anything else interesting.
• Summer-themed book – Find a story about beach trips, summer camp, or outdoor adventures.

Once they finish a book, they can check off that category. By the end of summer, they’ll have read six unique books!

Ideas for Ways to Use the Printable

This reading list isn’t just for home! Here are more ways to use it:

• In the classroom – Teachers can use this printable for summer assignments or reading challenges.
• Library programs – Libraries can include this checklist in summer reading programs.
• Book clubs – Kids can compare books and discuss their favorites together.
• Family reading challenge – Parents can join in and read books alongside their kids.
• Road trip entertainment – Keep kids engaged with reading during vacations.

Variations for Using the Printable

Want to make it even more fun? Try these variations:

• Sticker reward system – Let kids place a sticker next to each completed category.
• Set a reading goal – Challenge kids to finish by a certain date for a reward.
• Create a book review journal – Have kids write a short review about each book they read.
• Read-aloud time – Take turns reading books together as a family.
• Personalized lists – Allow kids to add their own categories or book choices.
• Coloring Bookmarks – I have a bunch of free printables for coloring bookmarks in different fun styles and designs. Use them to save your place or as a reward for completing books.

Common Questions About This Printable

Where can I download the summer reading list for kids printable?
You can download it for free right here! Scroll to the bottom and enter your email address in the download box. An email will be sent directly to your inbox, click the download link. Then print it at home and start using it today.

What age group is this printable for?
It works for elementary and middle school kids. The categories are broad, so kids can choose books at their own reading level.

Can I use this for multiple kids?
Yes! Print as many copies as you need for siblings, students, or friends.

Do you have book recommendations for each category?
Yes! Check out our suggested reading list ideas above to help kids find great books.

How can I encourage my child to finish the list?
Make it fun! Offer small rewards, read together, or let them pick books they’re excited about.

My Favorite Printable Supplies:

Contains affiliate links for your convenience; learn more and see our full disclosure policy here. 

• Printer: I love my HP Home Printer, it prints beautifully everytime no matter what projects I am working on.
• Paper: Depending on the durability you want with your printables, consider printing on white card stock or high quality paper.
• Laminator: For printables you are planning to use over and over again, simply laminate and use dry erase markers to mark up the printables.
• Paper Cutter: I love my CARL Paper Cutter. It makes trimming and cutting out printables a breeze.
• Sticker Paper: When printing tags or other free printables, sticker paper can make it easy to attach to gifts, boxes, or to make your own stickers.
• Cutting Supplies: You’ll want a great pair of paper cutting scissors and I love using an Xacto Knife for intricate details.
• Pens and Coloring Supplies: Here are some of my favorite writing tools for pencils and pens. Coloring supplies that I love to use in my own home: colored pencils, crayons, markers for adults, and markers for kids.

Download the Book List for Summer Here

Please remember my printables are free for classroom use or personal use only. You may not sell or distribute the printable or digital file. If you wish to share the digital files, please refer friends to the link of this blog post where they can sign up to receive the free printable directly in their inbox.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Summer is a great time to get lost in a great book! This free printable summer reading list for kids makes it easy to stay on track while having fun.

Download your copy today and start checking off books! Share this post with friends, teachers, or libraries to encourage more kids to read this summer. Let’s make reading an adventure!

More Summer Printables:

• Summer Observations Page
• Summer Rules Printable
• Summer Activities Calendar
• Summer Gnomes Coloring Pages
• Summer Random Acts of Kindness

Please pin this post for later and follow along on Pinterest: