There’s something special about summer reading. Without homework deadlines or early starts getting in the way, children can finally read simply because they want to.
The trick, of course, is finding the book that makes them want to keep turning the pages. Whether your child loves laugh-out-loud adventures, magical worlds or mysteries packed with twists, we’ve put together some brilliant summer reads for every age.
And remember, choice matters. As we explored in our guide to books that inspire a love of reading, children are much more likely to read when they’re genuinely excited about what they’ve chosen.
Ages 5–7: Big Adventures for Little Readers
Waffles and Julius: No Hugs Please! by Ed Vere
A lovely new picture book for 2026, this introduces Waffles, a dog who absolutely loves hugs, and Julius, a cat who definitely doesn’t. It’s funny, colourful and wonderfully relatable, with a gentle message about friendship, and respecting other people’s boundaries.
The Enormous Crocodile by Roald Dahl
Sometimes the classics really do earn their place. The Enormous Crocodile is plotting some particularly nasty tricks, but the other animals have plans of their own. Mischievous, slightly disgusting and full of Quentin Blake’s unforgettable illustrations, it’s ideal for children beginning to enjoy longer stories independently.
The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy
Long before Harry Potter arrived at Hogwarts, Mildred Hubble was causing magical mayhem at Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches. Broomsticks misbehave, and school rivalries quickly get complicated. It’s a wonderfully cosy introduction to magical school stories.
Ages 8–11: Adventures They Won’t Want to Put Down
Dragonflare by Jamie Hammond
Dragons, puzzles and an interactive adventure? This 2026 release has summer holiday entertainment written all over it. Flynn and his dragon are competing in the Wingrider Trials on Dragonflare Island, but they’ll need the reader’s help to succeed.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
Golden tickets. Everlasting Gobstoppers. A chocolate river. Even children who know the film may be surprised by just how wildly imaginative the original book is. Charlie’s trip inside Willy Wonka’s mysterious factory remains one of the greatest adventures in children’s literature.
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Four siblings step through an ordinary wardrobe and discover Narnia, a frozen world filled with talking animals, magic and danger. It’s a fantastic choice for children ready to lose themselves in a bigger fantasy adventure.
If your child usually insists they “don’t like reading”, don’t give up. Our ultimate reading list for reluctant readers has plenty more ideas for finding their reading spark.
Ages 12+: Books to Keep Teens Hooked
As these books explore crime, violence, war and loss, parents may wish to consider their teen’s individual maturity and sensitivities when choosing.
Your Murder Next by Ravena Guron
For teens who devour mysteries, this new 2026 YA thriller is an excellent holiday pick. When the most popular girl at Myra’s new school is found dead in a restaurant chiller, aspiring journalist Myra becomes convinced one of the girl’s friends is responsible. What follows is a twisty mystery involving secrets, cliques and plenty of suspects.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
If your teen somehow hasn’t discovered Panem yet, summer is the perfect time. Katniss Everdeen is thrown into a televised fight for survival where every decision could be fatal. Fast-paced, thought-provoking and extremely difficult to stop reading, it’s easy to see why the series became a phenomenon.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Set in Nazi Germany and narrated by Death, this unforgettable novel follows young Liesel as she discovers the extraordinary power of books and words. It’s moving, beautifully written and ideal for older teens looking for something with real emotional depth.
Make Reading Part of Their Summer
Don’t turn summer reading into another school assignment. Visit the library together, browse a bookshop, swap recommendations or let your child abandon a book they’re simply not enjoying. Tutor Doctor also has plenty more ideas for encouraging summer reading.
And if your child needs extra help with reading, comprehension or confidence before the new school year, Tutor Doctor can help. Find your local Tutor Doctor location today and discover how personalised one-to-one tutoring can help your child become a stronger, more confident reader.
