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If you love the Read with Jenna book club, a few years back she created something for your kids. She announced on TODAY the Read with Jenna Junior book list that included 21 titles for kids. Each year she releases a new list for the summer. I have every year on this blog. You can find all the links at the bottom of this post. This is the Jenna Junior 2026 Book Reading List.
Jenna Junior 2026 Book Reading List
I have the list below and if you want a library checklist to take to the library with you, just sign up in the box below to sign up for my email list and the list will come straight to your inbox.
Picture Books (ages 4-8)
We are Mighty: 12 Ordinary Americans Who Did the Next Needed Thing by Sharon McMahon
Every great change begins with one brave choice, one kind act, or one determined person.
This beautifully illustrated collection introduces young readers to twelve inspiring people from American history. Some are well known, while others are lesser known, but each one made a lasting difference through courage, kindness, and perseverance.
These true stories remind us that anyone—no matter their age or background—has the power to make a positive impact on the world.
Axl the Axolotl Is Not a Frog by Benj Pasek, Justin Paul and John Paul Brammer
On the first day of school, Axl the Axolotl notices that all the other creatures seem to know exactly where they belong—except him. As he sets out to find his own place, Axl discovers that being different is something worth celebrating.
This sweet and funny picture book encourages children to embrace what makes them unique and reminds them that finding where you belong may happen in unexpected ways.
Loops by Jashar Awan
A proud little one is ready to wear their very first pair of lace-up shoes! They may be a bit big, and tying them isn’t always easy, but every little challenge is part of learning something new.
As loose laces and runaway shoes lead to funny moments, young readers will discover that patience, practice, and perseverance help turn big challenges into exciting accomplishments. It’s a sweet reminder that growing up happens one step at a time.
Fireworks: A Joyful Summer Picture Book for Children Ages 4-8 by Matthew Burgess
Two siblings spend the Fourth of July exploring their city, enjoying neighborhood adventures, lively music, and the excitement of a warm summer day. As the hours pass, they eagerly count down to the grand fireworks display that will light up the night sky.
Filled with vibrant illustrations and lyrical storytelling, this charming picture book celebrates the simple joys of summer, family, and making unforgettable holiday memories.
In the second book of Phuc Tran’s bestselling Cranky series, a new crane joins the construction crew. Meet Lefty — cheerful, chatty, and full of fun — the total opposite of Cranky. This heartwarming story explores friendship and learning to accept yourself just as you are.
Better Pets by Leigh Bardugo
When a traveling pet shop arrives in town, Yvette and Evan discover a collection of funny, imaginative pets unlike anything they’ve ever seen. From quirky companions to magical creatures, every option seems more exciting than the last.
This playful picture book, paired with delightful illustrations, celebrates imagination, friendship, and the special bond between children and their perfect pets—sometimes found in the most unexpected places.
Otherwise Known as Judy the Great: A Poetic Ode to Judy Blume by Selina Alko
Discover the inspiring childhood of beloved author Judy Blume and how her early experiences shaped the stories that have touched generations of readers. As a young girl, she turned to writing to express her thoughts, work through challenges, and make sense of the world around her.
This beautifully written collection of poems explores the moments that influenced her life and celebrates the imagination, courage, and creativity that helped make Judy Blume one of America’s most cherished authors.
Tiny T. Rex Tries Soccer: A Tiny T. Rex Book Includes Stickers by Jonathan Stutzman
Tiny T. Rex is excited to try something new—playing soccer! With encouragement from his teammates and plenty of practice, he learns new skills, builds confidence, and discovers that improvement comes from never giving up.
Filled with adorable illustrations, humor, and a colorful sheet of stickers, this fun picture book encourages young readers to embrace new challenges, work together, and enjoy the game.
Middle Grade (ages 8-12)
A Fishboy Named…Sashimi by Dan Santat
Sashimi has come from the ocean hoping to find others like him, but fitting into life in Barnacle Bay isn’t easy. He decides to disguise himself as a student at the local elementary school—just as the entire town begins searching for a mysterious sea creature that sounds suspiciously like him!
With help from a new friend and a class goldfish, Sashimi must find a way to keep his secret in this funny, action-packed graphic novel adventure.
The Unlikely Tale of Chase & Finnegan by Jasmine Warga
Finnegan, a rescue dog, and Chase, an orphaned cheetah cub, have both experienced loss and struggle to trust again. When they’re unexpectedly brought together, Finnegan is given the important job of helping Chase build her confidence.
As their friendship grows, the unlikely pair discovers they may be exactly what each other needs to heal, find courage, and embrace a second chance.
The Endless Game by J.D. Amato
When Fred moves to Lakeside, Illinois, he finds himself caught up in a legendary game of capture the flag that has divided the town’s kids for generations. With forts, prisons, rules, and traditions of its own, the game turns his summer into an unforgettable adventure.
Along the way, Fred discovers the importance of friendship, belonging, and finding his place in the world.
Poetry Comics by Grant Snider
Grant Snider’s illustrated poetry collection celebrates the little moments that make each season special. Told through colorful comic-style panels, these playful poems find inspiration in everything from clouds and snail shells to lost bicycles and late buses.
Fun, creative, and perfect for young comic and graphic novel fans, this collection encourages kids to discover poetry in everyday life—and maybe even create poems of their own.
Abby Herman, age eleven, is beyond excited for her first-ever summer camp experience. But things take an unexpected turn when she finds herself at Camp Famous — a luxurious getaway for the children of celebrities. Hoping to fit in, Abby makes up a whole new persona. But as the days go on, she discovers that staying true to herself might be the biggest challenge of all.
Troubling Tonsils by Aaron Reynolds
Jasper the Rabbit returns with a creepy new tale about Charlie Marmot, who is preparing to have his tonsils removed. But when strange noises keep him awake and the doctor discovers his tonsils are already missing, Charlie begins to wonder if something spooky is going on.
Filled with chills, laughs, and plenty of creepy fun, this chapter book is perfect for young readers who enjoy a silly scare.
Wombat Waiting: A Middle Grave Novel in Verse About Dogs and Animals by Katherine Applegate
After a devastating fire destroys a community, a homeless, ash-covered dog is given the nickname Wombat. Convinced that a special person is meant to find her, she settles near a temporary community center and refuses to leave.
Surrounded by rescued animals and people rebuilding their lives, Wombat waits patiently for the person she believes is out there. But who is she waiting for—and will they ever come?
The Moon Without Stars by Chanel Miller
As seventh grade begins, Luna is happiest writing stories and creating zines with her best friend, Scott. But when their work unexpectedly makes her popular, she must decide how much she’s willing to change to fit in.
This heartfelt illustrated novel explores friendship, identity, and the challenge of staying true to yourself during the ups and downs of middle school.
Young Adult (ages 13-up)
Soundtrack by Jason Reynolds
Stuy Grey is a talented young drummer with big dreams of making music. After leaving home, he teams up with a group of fellow musicians in New York City, performing in subway stations as they save up to record an album.
Filled with music, determination, and friendship, this coming-of-age story follows a group of teens chasing their dreams while overcoming life’s challenges.
Love me Tomorrow by Emiko Jean
After wishing for proof that true love exists, seventeen-year-old Emma begins receiving mysterious letters from someone who claims to be the love of her life—from the future. As the messages reveal secrets only she could know, Emma sets out to discover who is writing to her.
Blending romance, mystery, and a touch of magic, this heartfelt novel explores love, destiny, and the unexpected paths life can take.
The Gravewood by Kelly Andrew
Shea has spent her life trapped in the shadow of the mysterious Gravewood, where supplies are scarce and danger is never far away. Desperate for the batteries she needs for her hearing aids, she makes a risky deal with Lysander, the leader of a powerful vampire gang.
But when her best friend disappears into the forest, Shea is drawn deeper into a dangerous world of secrets, bargains, and impossible choices. As she ventures into the Gravewood, she must decide how far she’s willing to go to protect the people she loves.
Heir by Sabaa Tahir
Three young people—an orphan seeking justice, an outcast with a magical gift, and a reluctant prince—find their lives connected as a dangerous new threat rises against the Empire.
Caught in a world of secrets, betrayal, love, and power, each must make difficult choices that could change not only their own futures but the fate of an entire empire.
All Sophie wants for Christmas is a bit of independence from her overprotective parents — mostly so she can sneak in some alone time with her longtime boyfriend, Griffin. But when Griffin unexpectedly asks for space, Sophie finds herself single and heartbroken. With a little holiday magic (and some meddling from her loving family), she’s set up on 10 blind dates in 10 days. As the countdown to Christmas begins, Sophie must decide: will she go back to Griffin, or has someone new captured her heart?
The Gilded Blade by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
In the thrilling conclusion to the Inheritance Games Saga, familiar faces and new allies are pulled into a dangerous game filled with secrets, puzzles, romance, and high stakes.
As the mystery takes them across the globe, every clue brings them closer to answers—and greater danger. To survive, they must uncover the truth behind secrets that have been hidden for generations before the final game comes to an end.
Thornbird by E. Kennedy
Ten years after her serial killer father was caught, Ryan returns to Starling, Tennessee, hoping to keep her identity and troubled past hidden. But when new questions about the case begin to surface, long-buried secrets threaten to come to light.
Filled with mysterious messages, unsettling clues, and unexpected twists, this suspenseful thriller will keep readers guessing about what Ryan really knows.
In conclusion
When my kids were young I loved all the summer book lists I could find for them. I knew I wouldn’t get through them all and that was ok. It was still fun to look through and pick some we thought would be favorites for each one of the kids. I hope Jenna’s list gives you more great ideas for summer reading for your kids!
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