Summer Reading Guide: Must-Read Books for Grades 6-8

Title: Summer Reading Guide: Must-Read Books for Grades 6-8

Introduction

As the school year ends, summer is the perfect time for middle school students to catch up on their reading for pleasure. Reading over the summer helps them maintain and develop their literacy skills and provides an opportunity to discover new stories and worlds. This summer reading guide features a selection of must-read books suitable for students in grades 6-8, offering a diverse range of genres, themes, and characters to cater to different interests.

1. "Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan

In this action-packed and humorous series, twelve-year-old Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and must navigate the dangerous world of Greek mythology. "The Lightning Thief" is the first book in the Percy Jackson series and provides a unique and engaging introduction to Greek mythology for middle school readers.

1. "The Giver" by Lois Lowry

This award-winning dystopian novel follows twelve-year-old Jonas as he navigates a seemingly perfect society without pain, war, or suffering. However, when Jonas is chosen to become the new Receiver of Memory, he uncovers the dark secrets hidden beneath the surface. "The Giver" encourages readers to think critically about the concept of utopia and the importance of individuality.

1. "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio

"Wonder," tells the heartwarming story of August Pullman, a boy born with a facial deformity, as he starts fifth grade at a mainstream school. The novel tackles themes of bullying, friendship, and acceptance while teaching readers about the power of empathy and kindness.

1. "The Crossover" by Kwame Alexander

Written in verse, "The Crossover" tells the story of basketball-loving twins Josh and Jordan Bell as they navigate the challenges of adolescence. This novel creatively weaves together family, sportsmanship, and personal growth themes, offering an engaging and accessible read for students who may not typically gravitate toward poetry.

1. "A Wrinkle in Time" by Madeleine L'Engle

A beloved classic, "A Wrinkle in Time," follows Meg Murry, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin as they embark on a dangerous journey through space and time to rescue Meg's father from an evil force. This timeless adventure explores love, courage, and self-discovery themes and encourages readers to embrace their unique qualities.

1. "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" by Kelly Barnhill

Winner of the Newbery Medal, "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" is a magical fantasy novel about a young girl named Luna who is accidentally fed moonlight by a witch, bestowing her with extraordinary powers. As Luna grows older and learns to control her powers, she uncovers secrets about her past and the world around her. This enchanting tale is perfect for readers who love magic, adventure, and self-discovery stories.

1. "Refugee" by Alan Gratz

Told from the perspectives of three young refugees from different periods, "Refugee" is a powerful and timely story highlighting the resilience and courage of those fleeing violence and persecution. This gripping and informative novel helps middle school readers develop empathy and understanding of the experiences of refugees worldwide.

Conclusion

This summer reading guide offers engaging and thought-provoking books for middle school students in grades 6-8. Students can broaden their horizons by exploring different genres, themes, and characters and discover new literary interests. Encouraging a love of reading is essential for academic success and personal growth, so why not make this summer a time for scholarly exploration and adventure?

1. "Ghost" by Jason Reynolds

In this first book of the "Track" series, Ghost, a young boy with a troubled past, finds solace in joining a local track team. As he learns to harness his natural talent, Ghost also confronts the challenges of his past and the importance of teamwork. This captivating and emotional story is excellent for students interested in sports and personal growth.

1. "The War That Saved My Life" by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Set during World War II, "The War That Saved My Life" follows Ada, a young girl born with a clubfoot, as she escapes her abusive mother and experiences life beyond her small London apartment. As she navigates the countryside with her brother and their new guardian, Ada learns about love, trust, and the true meaning of family. This historical fiction novel is an inspiring story of resilience and determination.

1. "The House with Chicken Legs" by Sophie Anderson

Inspired by the Slavic folklore of Baba Yaga, "The House with Chicken Legs" is a delightful and imaginative tale of Marinka, a young girl who longs to escape the loneliness of her life as the granddaughter of a Yaga. When Marinka sets out on a quest to change her destiny, she encounters magical creatures and discovers the power of friendship and belonging. This enchanting read is perfect for students who enjoy fairy tales and folklore.

1. "Brown Girl Dreaming" by Jacqueline Woodson

In this autobiographical novel-in-verse, Jacqueline Woodson shares her experiences growing up as an African American girl in the 1960s and 1970s. "Brown Girl Dreaming" explores themes of race, identity, and family while offering a window into the civil rights movement in the United States. This powerful and lyrical memoir is valuable to any middle school student's summer reading list.

1. "The City of Ember" by Jeanne DuPrau

In a world shrouded in darkness, the underground city of Ember provides the last refuge for humanity. However, as the city's infrastructure begins to fail, two young friends, Lina and Doon, must unravel the secrets of their home to save their people. "The City of Ember" is a thrilling and thought-provoking dystopian novel that encourages readers to question the world around them.

Final Thoughts

By engaging with these diverse and captivating novels, middle school students in grades 6-8 can expand their literary horizons and develop essential reading skills over the summer. Whether they are exploring magical realms, delving into history, or navigating the challenges of adolescence, these books offer readers a range of unforgettable stories and characters. So, pick up a book, find a cozy reading spot, and let the summer adventures begin!