Summer is peeking its golden head around the corner in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing with it the promise of vacations, slower days basking in the sun, and, of course, including the joy of summer reading! We won’t bash any light beach reads, but we think the following titles can go toe to toe with any bestseller. We’ve curated a selection of our favorite books that are perfect additions to your summer reading list—whether you’re a student or simply a lover of great literature.
For full disclosure, most of the titles in this list are available in our Classical Conversations bookstore. We are, after all, a curriculum provider and that includes books! You can, of course, find many of these at your local library, thrift sites, and other retailers. We hope you’ll support our CC bookstore, but most of all, we want you to read all these great books!
Also, find our list on Listly!
9 Fiction Adventures for Summer Escapes
After a school year filled with textbooks and academic pursuits, there’s nothing quite like diving into the captivating worlds of fiction. This summer, let your imagination soar with these timeless classics:
1. The Chronicles of Narnia
Step into the enchanted realm of Narnia with C. S. Lewis’s beloved series, starting with “The Magician’s Nephew” or “The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe.” Perfect for family read-aloud sessions or solitary adventures.
2. The Hobbit
Connect with Bilbo Baggins on a journey of bravery and discovery in J. R. R. Tolkien’s enchanting prequel to “The Lord of the Rings.” A tale that’s as heartwarming as it is thrilling.
3. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer
Mark Twain’s timeless tale of adventure along the Mississippi River is quintessential summer reading. It’ll make you laugh, ponder, and maybe even inspire a bit of mischief.
4. To Kill a Mockingbird
Harper Lee’s masterpiece is a poignant exploration of justice, compassion, and the complexities of human nature. A must-read for every generation.
5. The Phantom Tollbooth
Enter a whimsical world of wordplay and wonder in Norton Juster’s imaginative tale. Guaranteed to ignite a passion for learning and exploration.
(Note: Because of its cleverness, this book is delightful to both read aloud and have eyes on the page. You might consider multiple copies for engaging your family’s senses!)
6. Pride and Prejudice
Jane Austen’s classic romance is more than just a love story—it’s a witty social commentary filled with humor, drama, and timeless wisdom.
7. Jane Eyre
Charlotte Brontë’s iconic novel is a compelling blend of romance, mystery, and self-discovery. Join Jane on her journey of resilience and redemption.
8. Graeco-Roman Epic Poems
For the adventurous souls seeking epic tales, dive into the timeless narratives of “The Iliad,” “The Odyssey,” or “The Aeneid.” Enter these ageless adventures wherever you are this summer.
9. English Epic Poetry
One of the newest titles in our Copper Lodge Library Series, this well made, annotated, edition is just right for your summer reading. These stories set cultural precedents for heroism, character development, and theology.
3 Nonfiction Explorations for Summer Enlightenment
While fiction offers worlds beyond this world, nonfiction provides a window into the issues of life and society. Challenge and strengthen your mind with these thought-provoking reads:
1. Walden, Or Life in the Woods
Henry David Thoreau’s contemplative essays on nature and simplicity are perfect for introspective summer days. A timeless reminder to savor the beauty of the natural world.
2. Amusing Ourselves to Death
Neil Postman’s insightful critique of media and its impact on society remains as relevant today as it was when first published. A wake-up call for the digital age.
3. Mere Christianity
Delve into the rational exploration of Christian faith with C. S. Lewis’s eloquent masterpiece. A compelling invitation to ponder life’s deepest questions.
2 Engaging Read-Alouds for Family Bonding
Looking for shared adventures with your family? Explore these delightful read-alouds together:
1. Exploring the Heavens with Uncle Paul
Join “Uncle Paul” and his young adventurers as they marvel at the wonders of the night sky. A perfect blend of education and entertainment for the whole family.
2. Senators of Rome
Embark on a journey through ancient Rome with Classical Conversations’ captivating read-aloud. An immersive experience that brings history to life for learners of all ages.
11 Current Delights for 2024-2025 CC Members
Foundations families will enjoy these Copper Lodge Library readers as you look forward to Cycle 1 beginning this fall.
1. Ancient World Echoes
This anthology is filled with myths, short stories and fables that pair perfectly with Classical Conversations Cycle 1. With human and animal characters throughout, you’ll love the detail and themes throughout!
2. The Story of the World: Volume 1 Ancient Times (5000 BC to AD 400)
This engaging guide presents world history in a narrative format. Discover the marvelous story of world civilizations with the first volume of four in this captivating read-aloud series.
Essentials families may enjoy some of these literature recommendations as companions to the Institute for Excellence in Writing Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons:
3. Detectives in Togas
Visit ancient Rome and read about the high jinks and problem-solving escapades as you follow schoolboys who try to solve several crimes including an attack on their teacher and the desecration of a temple wall.
4. Mara, Daughter of the Nile
A young slave girl plays the dangerous role of double spy for two arch enemies. She yearns for freedom. What will happen when her duplicity is discovered?
5. The Golden Goblet
An exciting coming of age tale, the young protagonist discovers tomb raiders and is swept away into danger and intrigue. A Newberry Honor winner, this book brings Ancient Egypt to life.
Challenge families enjoy the following titles that accompany our Classical Conversations curriculum guides and each will delight its reader, excite imagination, and increase understanding.
6. Challenge A: The Secret Garden
A classic children’s novel, you’ll meet an insufferable young girl and encounter themes of redemption, love, and the importance of community. Enter the garden ill-tempered and unhealthy and remain until flowers and friendship restore the soul.
7. Challenge B: Where the Red Fern Grows
Hang on to your tissues and await the expansion of your heart as you grow up with Billy Coleman. You’ll never feel the same about hound dogs, racoons, and poor country boys who learn to better love and understand others.
8. Challenge I: Johnny Tremain
A Newberry medal award winning story, young and old alike will be captivated by Johhny Tremain’s story. Historical fiction emplaced in the United States Revolutionary period, this page turner keeps you riveted to the end.
9. Challenge II: Out of the Silent Planet
The first in C.S. Lewis’s space trilogy, this fantastical book involves the kidnap of Dr. Ransom, plunder and destruction on Mars, and growing awareness of the spiritual and material reality that leads to understanding and wisdom.
10. Challenge III: Tales from Shakespeare
This highly praised collection of stories has been used for more than 200 years to introduce the Shakespeare novice to the Bard’s greatest works. Rather than getting overwhelmed by jumping straight into complex Shakespearean language, begin with these easier-to-read prose adaptations.
11. Challenge IV: The Office of Assertion
The only nonfiction book on the list of Challenge program suggestions, this small but powerful book will equip and hone both parent and student skills for writing a thesis paper. Learn to communicate your ideas effectively with clear, engaging, and persuasive writing.
Fill Your Summer with Literary Delights
There you have it—our handpicked selection to enliven your summer reading experience! Whether you’re lounging on the beach or curled up indoors, let these books transport you to new worlds and ignite your imagination. After all, summer is the perfect time to indulge in the pleasure of reading and continue the journey of lifelong learning.
If you’re craving even more literary adventures, be sure to explore Leigh Bortins’ curated list of 117 absolute must-read books for your homeschool.
