By Superintendent Richard Savage and Social Worker Shannon Doss
With summer in full swing, many parents and educators are looking for engaging and meaningful books to add to their children’s reading lists. At California Online Public Schools, we believe summer reading is a great opportunity to explore themes that support social, emotional, and personal well-being. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or heading into high school, we’ve put together a list of books that will both entertain and encourage growth. We’ve also included some thoughtful reading recommendations for teachers, staff, and parents. Check out our summer reading selections for every grade level!
Kindergarten – 2nd Grade Books
1. Perla the Mighty Dog by Isabel Allende (Author) and Sandy Rodríguez (Illustrator)
- In the first children’s book written by critically acclaimed New York Times-bestselling superstar Isabel Allende, Perla, the mighty dog, teaches her human brother, Nico Rico, how to use his superpowers to stand up to a bully.
2. The Color Monster: A Story About Emotions by Anna Llenas
- This international bestseller helps young readers recognize and understand their emotions. One day, Color Monster wakes up feeling mixed-up, experiencing anger, happiness, calm, sadness, and fear all at once. A little girl comes to his aid, using colors to explain what each emotion means.
3. Buffalo Fluffalo by Bess Kalb
- Follow the hilarious adventures of a buffalo who tries to bluff and fluff his way into being something he’s not. This charming tale highlights the importance of self-acceptance and being true to oneself.
4. The Spark in You by Andrea Pippins
- This cheerful picture book, filled with uplifting affirmations, celebrates the unique magic in each of us. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Carnival, a little girl uses her creativity to prepare for the big parade. Through her eyes, the story highlights personal expression and creativity, alongside the festival’s vivid light, color, and excitement.
3rd Grade – 5th Grade Books
1. Super George and The Invisible Shield by Laurie P. Mendoza
- Written by an elementary school counselor for her students, Super George and the Invisible Shield equips children with a powerful strategy to minimize the effects of negative comments from others.
2. Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate
- Katherine Applegate presents a magical and unforgettable tale of family, friendship, and resilience. Crenshaw is a large, outspoken, and imaginary cat who returns to help Jackson. But will this imaginary friend be enough to save Jackson’s family from losing everything?
3. Save Me A Seat by Gita Varadarajan, Sarah Weeks
- Joe and Ravi think they have nothing in common, but they soon discover a shared challenge: the biggest bully in their class. Together, they embark on a mission to take control of their lives over the course of one wild week.
4. Wish by Barbara O’Connor
- When eleven-year-old Charlie encounters a stray dog, she risks everything to give Wishbone the permanent home she so desperately needs. “A warm, genuine, and heartfelt story”—Kirkus
6th Grade – 8th Grade Books
1. A Royal Conundrum (the Misfits) by Lisa Yee (Author) and Dan Santat (Illustrator)
- When a notorious thief targets priceless treasures (gems! cats! even decorum!), who can you turn to? An elite team of crime-fighting underdogs, of course! Join The Misfits in this hilarious illustrated series by Newbery Honoree Lisa Yee and Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat!
2. How to Master Your Mood in Middle School by Lenka Glassman
- Part of a fantastic nonfiction series created with expert psychologist and series editor, Bonnie Zucker, PsyD, this book authentically captures the middle school experience. It provides middle schoolers with a supportive, big-sister-like voice, offering valuable life lessons and practical coping skills for navigating the challenging transition from elementary to high school. “Smart and essential!” —Jeff Kinney, Diary of a Wimpy Kid
3. Timid by Jonathan Todd
- A semi-autobiographical middle-grade graphic novel about navigating frenemies, finding your place, and discovering your voice.
4. Daughters of the Lamp by Nedda Lewers
- This middle grade fantasy debut blends Percy Jackson with Arabian fairy tales, following a girl chosen to guard Ali Baba’s legendary treasure. Can she, a magic skeptic, claim her legacy as the treasure’s keeper?
9th Grade – 12th Grade Books
1. If I Ever Get Out of Here by Eric Gansworth
- This debut novel, praised by Laurie Halse Anderson for “fearlessly laying down the truth” about friendship, poverty, and rock ‘n’ roll, centers on Lewis “Shoe” Blake on the Tuscarora Indian reservation in 1975. While Lewis is familiar with the trials of reservation life, he’s taken aback by the kindness of newcomers like George Haddonfield. As their mutual passion for music, especially The Beatles, deepens, Lewis struggles to hide his family’s poverty from George.
2. Lost in my Mind: a collection of poetry about mental health by Riley Kinkade
- A collection of poems that delves into mental health, exploring themes of depression and anxiety, and the journey toward self-love and healing.
3. All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir
- From #1 New York Times bestselling author Sabaa Tahir comes a brilliant and unforgettable contemporary novel that weaves a powerful tale of family, forgiveness, love, and loss across generations and continents. This breathtaking story from one of today’s most beloved young adult authors captures both the beauty and heartbreak of young love and enduring regrets with a deeply moving and poignant touch.
4. Educated by Tara Westover
- One of the most acclaimed books of our time, this unforgettable memoir follows a young woman who, despite being kept out of school by her survivalist family, overcomes incredible odds to earn a PhD from Cambridge University.
5. Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know About the People We Don’t Know by Malcolm Gladwell
- A compelling look at why our interactions with strangers often go awry, this book by Gladwell explores how our methods for understanding unfamiliar people can lead to conflict and misunderstanding, impacting both our lives and the world around us.
Books for Parents and Teachers
1. Rethinking Intelligence by Rina Bliss
- A genetics expert and professor reshapes our view of intelligence, clarifying what it really means to be “smart,” why traditional tests can be misleading, and how everyone can unlock their full potential.
2. What You Wish For by Katherine Center
- A school librarian and principal face various challenges and embark on a journey to rediscover themselves, finding joy and love even in the midst of chaos.
3. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
- A dazzling novel that explores the many choices that make for a life well lived, by the internationally bestselling author of Reasons to Stay Alive and How to Stop Time.
4. The Light Eaters: How the Unseen World of Plant Intelligence Offers a New Understanding of Life on Earth by Zoë Schlange
- Award-winning Atlantic writer Zoë Schlanger presents a fascinating look at the hidden world of plants, uncovering the amazing abilities of the green life around us.
5. The Library Book by Sue Orlean
- Susan Orlean delves into the mystery of an unsolved and catastrophic library fire, delivering a heartfelt tribute to the cherished role our libraries play in our communities.
Final Thoughts
We hope this summer reading list from California Online Public Schools inspires and engages readers of all ages, providing not just entertainment but also valuable insights into social and emotional well-being. Whether you’re a student exploring new ideas, a teacher nurturing young minds, a staff member dedicated to our school community, or a parent supporting your child’s development, we’ve carefully selected these books to complement and enhance your journey. At CalOPS, we’re committed to supporting every aspect of your growth and learning. Happy reading from all of us at California Online Public Schools!
