There is something special about summer reading. Whether you are relaxing by the pool, traveling with family, or enjoying a quiet evening on the porch, a good book can make the season even better.
I recently asked the ABCJesusLovesMe Family to share the books they loved and could not stop talking about. Combined with several books I have personally read and enjoyed, this list has become a collection of recommendations for both adults and children. From page-turning novels to meaningful read-alouds for your family, there is something here for everyone. Be sure to read all the way to the end because the books that were recommended more than any others are listed last!
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Best Summer Books for Adults to Read This Summer
The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion
Keturah said that this book is “laugh-out-loud light reading. Not life changing, but so enjoyable.”
AI Overview: Set in 1883 London, this historical fiction series follows Emma M. Lion as she returns to the neighborhood of St. Crispian’s and records her life through a collection of witty and insightful journal entries. As she navigates eccentric relatives, unusual neighbors, and unexpected friendships, Emma’s observations reveal both humor and heart.
The Familiar Stranger
Cindy suggested The Familiar Stranger. While I haven’t read this book, I highly suggest Tyler Staton’s book Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools. It is one that should be on my yearly reading list.
The Correspondent
Multiple people suggested this novel.
AI Overview: Told through letters and emails, this novel follows Sybil Van Antwerp, a retired lawyer whose lifelong habit of correspondence reveals her relationships, regrets, and personal growth. As letters from her past resurface, Sybil is forced to confront old wounds and consider the role of forgiveness in moving forward.
The Power to Change
After reading Winning the War in Your Mind: Change Your Thinking, Change Your Life, I dove into The Power to Change and invited two close friends to go through the workbook with me. Just two lessons in, this book & workbook combo is changing my life. Blog posts to come!
Note: The Power to Change Workbook doesn’t line up with the book like, as a Curriculum writer, I would expect. Reach out to me if you use it and I will share what we learned to make your journey easier.
Counted with the Stars
Tina shared that this is an “outstanding biblical fiction book set in Egypt during the events in Exodus.”
AI Overview: This biblical historical novel follows Kiya, a young Egyptian woman who is sold into slavery and finds herself caught in the events surrounding the ten plagues and the Exodus. As she escapes Egypt with the Hebrews, she must decide whether to cling to her past or place her trust in the God of Israel.
Remarkably Bright Creatures: A Novel
This book came highly recommended by multiple people, but with warnings that it contains some adult language.
AI Overview: After forming an unlikely friendship with Marcellus, a highly intelligent giant Pacific octopus at a local aquarium, widow Tova Sullivan begins to uncover long-buried truths about her family’s past. Through themes of grief, connection, and hope, the novel explores how unexpected relationships can bring healing and answers.
The Anxious Generation
The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness was first recommended to me a couple of years ago, and it came up again just last week. While it isn’t a Christian book, it is a must-read for anyone who works with or raises children. It provides incredible insight to help you establish intentional technology boundaries for your home.
A Time to Die
If Christian science fiction is your jam, Allie suggests the book A Time to Die by Nadine Brandes. This book dives into the question, “How will you use your time on earth?”
Theo of Golden
And the most suggested book for this summer’s adult read…
AI Overview: When a mysterious elderly man named Theo arrives in the small town of Golden, he begins purchasing pencil portraits displayed in a coffee shop and returning them to the people depicted. His quiet acts of kindness create meaningful connections throughout the community, revealing stories of loss, belonging, and redemption.
Best Read-Aloud Chapter Books for Kids and Families
The Doll People
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Doll People series with Peanut when he was in elementary school. I am rereading them myself right now!
AI Overview: The Doll People series follows Annabelle Doll, an eight-year-old doll who has secretly been alive for over 100 years. Along with her doll family and new friends, she goes on adventures, solves mysteries, and learns lessons about courage, friendship, and responsibility.
The Green Ember Series
Cindy’s family is enjoying reading the Green Ember Series with her elementary-age kiddos.
AI Overview: This fantasy series follows rabbit siblings Heather and Picket as they are drawn into a struggle to restore their homeland after it is overrun by enemies. Filled with adventure, loyalty, sacrifice, and hope, the story explores what it means to stand for truth and protect those you love.
Mercy Watson
Emily suggested one of our favorites, Mercy Watson.
The Mercy Watson books center on a toast-loving pig named Mercy who lives with Mr. and Mrs. Watson. Her well-meaning but often chaotic adventures create humorous situations that delight young readers while introducing simple chapter book storytelling.
Wingfeather Saga
Before enjoying the Lord of the Rings, Peanut enjoyed this series.
AI Overview: This four-book fantasy series follows siblings Janner, Kalmar (“Tink”), and Leeli Igiby as they discover hidden truths about their family’s past and become caught in a battle against evil forces threatening their world. Set in the imaginative land of Aerwiar, the story combines adventure, humor, courage, sacrifice, and redemption as the children learn what it means to protect those they love.
Charlotte’s Web
And the most suggested children’s book… Charlotte’s Web is a favorite of the ABCJesusLovesMe family!
AI Overtime: This classic story follows Wilbur, a pig who faces an uncertain future, and Charlotte, the wise spider who befriends him. Through Charlotte’s efforts to save Wilbur, the book explores friendship, loyalty, love, and the natural cycle of life.
Discover More Favorite Books
But this is just the beginning! On ABCJesusLovesMe are lists of the best-of-the-best books per age group and by theme. Whether you want a read-aloud of a toddler, a beginning reader for a 1st grader, or a fun chapter read-aloud of the whole family, you won’t want to miss these books. Teach about colors, emotions, or fall. These books are what a friend calls “literacy gold.” Ones that every child should be read.
Which Will You Choose?
Whether you choose one book or several from this list, I encourage you to make reading part of your summer rhythm. Take these titles to your local library, fill a tote bag with stories, and create opportunities to learn and connect together. Then share with me your favorites! Be sure to print the free reading lists on the links above.
Reading does so much more than pass the time. It builds vocabulary, strengthens comprehension, sparks imagination, and introduces children and adults to new ideas and perspectives. Most importantly, shared stories create moments of connection that your family will remember long after summer ends. Happy reading!
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