Third 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 3rd grade list were selected for independent readers. They are high-interest, popular books that will build excitement and reading stamina. 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 for striving readers and where to find those for independent reading practice, click here.
National Geographic Kids Almanac 2026
National Geographic Kids Almanac 2026 is a colorful nonfiction reference book packed with fun facts, amazing photographs, quizzes, maps, science discoveries, animals, space information, world records, and current events designed especially for kids. The short sections and engaging visuals make it ideal for curious second graders who enjoy browsing, learning new facts, and building background knowledge independently or with support.
Trombone Shorty by Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews
Trombone Shorty is an inspiring autobiographical picture book based on the childhood of New Orleans musician Troy Andrews. The story follows young Troy as he grows up surrounded by music, culture, and community in New Orleans and earns the nickname “Trombone Shorty” because his trombone was bigger than he was. Through determination, practice, and passion, Troy follows his dream of becoming a musician. The book celebrates perseverance, creativity, family, and the powerful role music can play in bringing people together.
The Garbage Barge by Jonah Winter
The Garbage Barge is a nonfiction picture book based on the true story of a barge filled with trash that traveled along the East Coast in 1987 searching for a place to unload its garbage. As the barge is turned away from port after port, the story highlights growing concerns about waste, pollution, and environmental responsibility. With humor and engaging illustrations, the book encourages readers to think about recycling, conservation, and the impact humans have on the planet.
The Secret Explorers by SJ King
The Secret Explorers is an exciting early chapter book series that follows a diverse team of young experts who travel around the world solving mysteries and completing science-themed missions. Each adventure introduces readers to topics like space, oceans, rainforests, dinosaurs, volcanoes, and climate science while blending real nonfiction facts with fast-paced storytelling. The series is written for children ages 7–9 and includes illustrations, glossaries, quizzes, and STEM connections that make it especially engaging for curious third graders and developing readers.
Jack Jones and the Ghost Ship by Zander Bingham
Jack Jones and the Ghost Ship takes readers on a mysterious ocean adventure with Jack and his friends after they discover an abandoned fishing boat drifting at sea. What happened to the crew? Why was the ship left behind? As the kids search for clues, they uncover secrets, solve problems, and work together to crack the mystery. Packed with adventure, suspense, and friendship, this exciting chapter book keeps readers turning pages to find out what happens next. If you love this book, check out the rest of the Jack Jones series!
The Magic of the Unicorn by Deborah Lerme Goodman
The Magic of the Unicorn lets readers create their very own magical adventure! As you journey through enchanted forests and mysterious lands, you will make choices that decide what happens next. Will you find a unicorn? Get lost in a magical world? Discover hidden secrets? Every decision changes the story, so you can read the book again and again to unlock new adventures and endings. Explore the whole set of Choose Your Own adventure Books!
Small Flames- Zuri the Golden Dragon by A.M. Luzzader
Small Flames is an inspiring adventure about Zuri, a young dragon whose fire is much smaller than everyone else’s. While other dragons breathe huge flames, Zuri struggles with tiny sparks and begins to wonder if she will ever fit in. But through practice, courage, and determination, Zuri discovers that even small flames can do big things. This exciting story encourages readers to believe in themselves, keep trying, and celebrate what makes them unique. If you love this book, read the whole series!
Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate
Crenshaw is a heartfelt story about a boy named Jackson whose family is struggling financially and may lose their home. During this difficult time, Jackson reconnects with Crenshaw, his large imaginary cat friend who loves surfing, jelly beans, and giving advice. As Jackson faces worries about family, friendship, and change, Crenshaw helps him find courage and hope. The story blends humor and imagination with important themes about resilience, honesty, and family support.
How to Eat Fried Worms by Thomas Rockwell
How to Eat Fried Worms is a hilarious chapter book about a boy named Billy who makes a bet that he can eat fifteen worms in fifteen days. As his friends come up with increasingly gross ways to prepare the worms, Billy must decide whether he can stick to the challenge and win the bet. Filled with humor, pranks, and outrageous situations, the story keeps readers laughing while exploring friendship, determination, and perseverance.
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 and the Reading Rev Team
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