There are many books available that can be read during summer vacation, and it’s important to choose ones that will keep kids engaged and entertained.
Summer break is the perfect time to encourage reading and help children develop a love for books. With school out and more free time on their hands, you can help them spend their days with a good book. But what books should they read? We’ve put together a list of the best books for children to read during the summer. From fantasy to realism and fiction to nonfiction, these titles are perfect for engaging young minds and keeping them entertained during the long summer days.
1. The Chronicles of Narnia – C.S. Lewis
“The Chronicles of Narnia” is a beloved fantasy series by C.S. Lewis has captured the hearts and imaginations of readers for decades. The series features seven novels and is set in the fictional world of Narnia, a magical place where talking animals roam and fantasy creatures exist.
It is an ideal book series for school children to read as it not only encourages their imagination and creativity but also teaches valuable lessons about life. Through the fantasy world of Narnia, children are introduced to themes like friendship, bravery, loyalty, and leadership, as well as overcoming fear and the importance of standing up for what is right. It engages children in an ecosphere where they get to experience different adventures of imaginary creatures and understand the consequences of their actions. Apart from that, it also expands their vocabulary and reading comprehension, making it an excellent educational tool.
2. The Diary of a Young Girl – Anne Frank
“The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank is a memoir that chronicles the life of a young girl during the Holocaust. The diary is a personal account written by Anne Frank, a Jewish teenager who lived in hiding with her family in Amsterdam during World War II. She kept a diary for two years while hiding in a cramped attic, where she wrote about her everyday life, her fears, and her dreams. Anne’s diary gives readers a firsthand account of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust and what it was like to live in hiding during that time. It also showcases the power of hope, bravery, and optimism in the face of unimaginable adversity.
“The Diary of a Young Girl” is an important historical document that provides insight into one of the darkest periods of human history, and it is a timeless reminder of the importance of kindness, tolerance, and acceptance of people from all backgrounds. Children must read it to learn about the Holocaust, empathise with victims of discrimination and intolerance, and reflect on how they can work towards ensuring such events don’t repeat themselves.
3. The Harry Potter Series – J K Rowling
The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling is an iconic fantasy series that has captivated the hearts and minds of countless readers, both young and old. Set in the wizarding world of Hogwarts, the series follows the adventures of young Harry Potter, a boy who discovers he is a wizard with a unique destiny.
At its heart, “Harry Potter” is a story about friendship, loyalty, and the power of love. It also teaches valuable lessons about responsibility, determination, and the importance of standing up for what is right, no matter the consequences. Moreover, the series exposes readers to diverse cultures and characters, promoting empathy, while teaching the importance of teamwork and learning from each other’s differences. Children must read “Harry Potter” to explore their imagination and creativity, while also emphasising crucial values and enriching their reading skills.
4. I Am Malala – Malala Yousafzai
“I Am Malala” by Malala Yousafzai is a powerful memoir that tells the story of a young girl’s fight for education and her brave stand against the Taliban in Pakistan. Malala grew up in the Swat Valley of Pakistan, where the Taliban took over and banned girls from attending school. She defied the ban and continued to speak out for education, leading to her being targeted by the Taliban and shot in the head at the age of 15. After surviving the attack, she continued to advocate for education and became a global icon of peace, earning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014. Through her book, readers are introduced to the struggles of Malala and the girls like her around the world who are fighting for their right to education amidst social and political unrest.
“I am Malala” underscores the importance of education, the power of activism, and the courage required to stand up for what one believes in. It is a reminder of the need to value education as an avenue to address social issues and promote gender equality. It also inspires children to stand up for justice and the sustainable development of their communities. Every child must read this book to get inspired by Malala’s courageous journey and recognise the transformative impact of education.
5. The Room on the Roof – Ruskin Bond
“The Room on the Roof” by Ruskin Bond is a coming-of-age novel set in Dehradun, India. The book follows the story of a young orphan, Rusty, who feels trapped and unfulfilled by his life in the strict boarding school run by British officials. In search of adventure and freedom, Rusty escapes and finds himself living with a group of Indian street urchins. Through his experiences on the street, Rusty learns about the beauty and complexity of Indian culture and forms his own sense of identity. The book confronts themes such as individuality, cultural identity, coming-of-age, and social restrictions.
Through Rusty’s journey, readers are exposed to the rich and vibrant culture of India, including its social and language diversity, rich history, and captivating landscapes. “The Room on the Roof” is not only a beautifully written novel but also a timeless reminder of the importance of embracing diversity and inclusivity. Every child must read this book to learn about different cultures, understand the impact of social norms and values, and appreciate the transformative nature of connection and belonging.
In conclusion, reading books is an essential aspect of children’s development, especially during their summer break. It promotes their literacy and vocabulary, expands their imagination and creativity, and fosters a love of learning. The books mentioned in this blog are not only engaging, but they also offer a wide range of lessons that children can learn from.
