Second Grade Summer MUST READ Book List
Let's INSPIRE summer reading! I spent the last month interviewing students, parents, and teachers about what books should make our Summer Must-Read Lists. One response was, "This series required some emergency trips to the library!" I hope that every child feels that excited to rush off to the library to get the next book. If you need some additional summer reading inspiration, check out our annual, 7 Tips to Encourage Reading and Avoid Summer Slide.
Each grade level has a "Must-Read" list that includes 9 titles. I chose these books because they are inspiring, diverse, age-appropriate, and most importantly, adored by real kids!
The books chosen for the 2nd grade list were selected for newly independent readers. They are high-interest, popular books that will build excitement and reading stamina. Three series were chosen because at this stage of reading development, we just want our kids hungry to read more! The books chosen for this list are NOT decodable readers meant for an emergent reader to read independently. If your child is not an independent reader, use this selection to read together and build excitement, rich vocabulary, great conversations, connection, and a love for reading! If you would like to find out more about why decodables are important and where to find those for independent reading practice, click here.
Don’t Trust a Fish by Neil Sharpson
Don't Trust a Fish is a funny and quirky picture book that warns readers not to trust fish because, according to the narrator, fish are secretly plotting to take over the world. With exaggerated humor, dramatic claims, and playful illustrations, the story encourages readers to think critically about unreliable narrators and persuasion. Beneath the silliness, the book also introduces ocean creatures and facts in an entertaining, memorable way.
What the Road Said by Cleo Wade
What the Road Said is an uplifting and inspirational picture book about courage, self-belief, and embracing life’s journey. Told as a conversation between a child and a winding road, the story encourages readers to keep moving forward even when the path feels uncertain or difficult. With gentle language and hopeful illustrations, the book delivers a message about resilience, growth, and trusting yourself along the way.
Abdul’s Story by Jamilah Thompkins-Biglow
Abdul's Story is a meaningful picture book about a young boy named Abdul who struggles to write a personal story for school because he feels pressured to choose just one identity or experience to define himself. With encouragement, Abdul realizes that his story is made up of many important parts: his family, culture, religion, hobbies, and dreams. The book celebrates identity, self-expression, and the idea that everyone’s story is complex and valuable.
The Empty Pot by Demi
The Empty Pot is a classic picture book about a boy named Ping who loves growing flowers. When the emperor gives every child a seed and promises to choose the next ruler based on who grows the best plant, Ping cares for his seed carefully, but nothing grows. Although embarrassed, he bravely brings his empty pot to the emperor. The emperor reveals that the seeds had been cooked and could never sprout, and Ping’s honesty earns him the honor of becoming the next emperor. The story teaches integrity, honesty, courage, and doing the right thing even when it is hard.
WHY? 1,111 Answers to Everything by National Geographic
This collection of true animal tales will leave you feeling amazed and inspired! Meet animals who saved the day, made incredible contributions, and changed the world.
Not all heroes were capes. Some have four legs and are covered in fur!
!
Each short story has real photos of the animals who will surely steal your child's heart.
Read Aloud (Nat Geo Kids)
Zombies Don't Eat Veggies! by Megan Lacera and Jorge Lacera
Zombies Don't Eat Veggies! is a humorous picture book about a young zombie named Mo who secretly loves eating vegetables, even though zombies in his family are expected to eat gross, creepy foods instead. Worried about what others will think, Mo hides his true preferences until he learns that being yourself is more important than fitting in. The story celebrates individuality, acceptance, and having the confidence to embrace what makes you unique.
A to Z Mysteries by Ron Roy
A to Z Mysteries is a popular early chapter book series that follows three young friends—Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose—as they solve kid-friendly mysteries in their town. Each book focuses on a different mystery tied to a letter of the alphabet, from missing animals to hidden treasure and strange disappearances. The series is known for its manageable chapters, engaging plots, and accessible vocabulary, making it a favorite for developing readers transitioning into longer chapter books.
Arnie the Donut by Laurie Keller
Arnie the Doughnut is a funny and imaginative picture book about a doughnut named Arnie who is shocked to learn that doughnuts are made to be eaten. Determined to save himself, Arnie convinces Mr. Bing to keep him as a pet instead. Filled with humor, wordplay, and expressive illustrations, the story celebrates creativity, problem-solving, and friendship. Readers who enjoy Arnie’s adventures can also continue with the The Adventures of Arnie the Doughnut chapter book series, which expands on Arnie’s hilarious escapades for developing readers.
The World According to Humphrey by Betty G. Birney
According to Humphrey is the first book in the beloved Humphrey series about a curious classroom hamster who observes the students and teachers around him and often helps solve their problems in surprising ways. Told from Humphrey’s funny and thoughtful perspective, the series explores friendship, kindness, responsibility, and school life through short, engaging chapters. The books are especially popular with developing readers because of their humor, relatable characters, and gentle life lessons.
Do you have children of other ages?
Check out each grade level's Must-Read List:
Future Kindergartener's Summer Must-Read List
Future First Grader's Summer Must-Read List
Future Second Grader's Summer Must-Read List
Future Third Grader's Summer Must-Read List
Future Fourth Grader's Summer Must-Read List
Future Fifth Grader’s Summer Must-Read List
Middle School Summer Must-Read List
Download our Grade Level Student Must-Read Rating Sheets in the Reading Rev VIP Vault or here.
You can also find our Parent Support Pack & Reading Incentives and Challenges in the Free Resource Library or here.
Let's make summer reading FUN!
Have a great summer! ~Bri & the RR Team
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