Fifth Grade MUST-Read Summer 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 2023 "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 5th grade list were selected for independent readers. They are high-interest, The books chosen for the 5th grade list were selected for independent readers. They are high-interest, popular books that will foster a love of reading for pleasure. If your child is not able to read one or more of these books independently, use this selection to read together or listen to an audio book. It will build excitement, expose your child to rich vocabulary, encourage conversations and connection, and develop a love for reading! If you would like to find out more about why audio books are helpful for striving readers, click here. If you'd like to find out ways to help your striving reader find success, visit our website's Just for Parents page.
The Epic Science Challenge For Super Smart Kids by Charlie Maple
The Epic Science Challenge For Super Smart Kids is an exciting nonfiction book packed with amazing science facts, brain-teasing quizzes, experiments, and surprising stories about physics, chemistry, biology, space, animals, and the human body. Readers will discover strange inventions, unbelievable scientific discoveries, and fun challenges that test their knowledge along the way. Filled with colorful information and interactive activities, this book is perfect for curious kids who love asking questions and learning how the world works.
Unhinged History by Cozy Nook Books
Unhinged History is a hilarious nonfiction book filled with strange, surprising, and unbelievable true stories from history that most kids have never heard before. From bizarre inventions and unusual rulers to crazy accidents and ridiculous events, each short story shares wild facts that are both educational and entertaining. Packed with humor, fascinating trivia, and unexpected twists, this book is perfect for curious readers who enjoy history, weird facts, and laugh-out-loud moments.
Eleven by Tom Rogers
Eleven is an exciting and emotional adventure about a boy named Alex who wakes up on his eleventh birthday to discover that he is suddenly living the same day over and over again. As the day repeats, Alex must figure out why it is happening while also dealing with family struggles, friendship challenges, and important choices. Filled with humor, mystery, and heart, the story explores themes of forgiveness, courage, and appreciating the people around you.
Restart by Gordon Korman
Restart begins when Chase Ambrose falls off a roof and loses all of his memories…including who he is. As Chase returns to school and pieces together his past, he discovers something shocking: before the accident, he was one of the biggest bullies in school. Now, with a chance to start over, Chase must decide whether he wants to become the person everyone expects him to be or someone completely different. Funny, thoughtful, and surprisingly emotional, this powerful novel explores identity, second chances, friendship, and the idea that people really can change.
Inside Out and Back Again by Thanha Lai
Inside Out and Back Again is a powerful novel told in verse about a young girl named Hà who flees Vietnam with her family during the Vietnam War and begins a new life in the United States. As Hà adjusts to a different language, culture, and school, she experiences loneliness, frustration, and hope while trying to find where she belongs. Based on the author’s own experiences, the story explores family, resilience, immigration, and the challenges of starting over in a new country.
Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett
Chasing Vermeer is a clever mystery novel about two sixth graders, Petra and Calder, who become involved in solving the theft of a famous painting by the artist Vermeer. As they search for clues, decode puzzles, and uncover strange connections, the mystery grows more complicated and exciting. Filled with suspense, art, codes, and surprising twists, the story encourages readers to think critically and look closely at the world around them.
Song for a Whale by Lynne Kelly
Song for a Whale is a touching story about a deaf girl named Iris who feels misunderstood and disconnected from the people around her. When she learns about a lonely whale whose unique song cannot be understood by other whales, Iris feels a special connection and becomes determined to help. Using creativity, science, and determination, she sets out on an unforgettable journey to communicate with the whale. Filled with heart, adventure, and emotion, the story explores friendship, belonging, perseverance, and the importance of being heard.
Keeper of the Lost Cities by Shannon Messenger
Sophie Foster has a secret. She can hear the thoughts of those around her! One day she meets Fitz who has the same mind-reading power.
Sophie soon realizes that she does not belong where she has always called home. She must return to a place where not everyone is excited to see her. And, she must discover the secrets buried deep in her mind, secrets other people would kill for.
This page-turning book is the first in a series of 12. This is the book that required some emergency runs to the library!!
Hook’s Daughter by R.V. Bowman
Hook's Daughter is a fast-paced fantasy adventure about Jocelyn Hook, the daughter of the famous Captain Hook from Peter Pan. Wanting to prove herself as a pirate, Jocelyn sets out on a dangerous journey filled with hidden treasures, magical secrets, and exciting battles on the high seas. Along the way, she discovers that bravery, friendship, and making her own choices matter more than living up to her father’s reputation. Filled with action, humor, and adventure, the story offers a fresh twist on the classic Neverland tale.
Book Trailer (No trailer has been made. Make one and we’ll post it here!)
Do you have children of other ages?
Check out each grade level's Must-Read List below.
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
We’re passionate about sharing literacy resources that truly make a difference. Some links on this site are affiliate links, meaning Reading Rev may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. Your support helps us continue creating content and resources for teachers.
