As a child, I was a voracious reader long before the term “tween” was coined. My days were spent devouring works by authors like Judy Blume and Beverly Cleary, and I could always be found rummaging through the Dell Yearling section at my local bookstore. I often finished my weekly library finds within days, leaving me with only my sister’s well-worn romances and my parents’ unreadable novels to occupy my time.
I’m pleased to report that my 11-year-old nephew shares my passion for reading, and he’s more than willing to indulge my desire to share my beloved childhood books with him. I consider myself a curator of young adult literature from the late 20th century, guiding him through essential reads that every preteen should experience. While I do introduce him to contemporary classics like The Giver, I believe that certain books from the past still resonate powerfully today.
Here are some of the most captivating young adult novels that are perfect for summer reading, guaranteed to inspire any child to step away from their screens for a while.
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Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh
If Harriet were alive today, she would undoubtedly have an impressive anonymous blog. Her keen observations of classmates, the poignant bond with her nanny, Ole Golly, and the chaos that ensues when her friends uncover her secret notebook will resonate with any young reader. Also, don’t miss the sequel, The Long Secret, which follows Harriet and her friend Beth Ellen on a mystery-solving adventure. -
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle
This book was a revelation for me at the age of 11, and I eagerly await my nephew’s reaction to its mind-bending story. The journey of Meg and Charles Wallace through time and space is a captivating narrative that remains timeless, especially the concept of the tesseract (the fifth dimension) that fascinated me endlessly. -
All-of-a-Kind Family by Sydney Taylor
This charming five-book series about five Jewish sisters living in early 20th-century New York sparked my imagination. I envision my nephew relishing the stories of Charlotte and Gertie as they create a make-believe world while snacking on crackers and chocolate babies—a delightful mystery worth exploring. -
From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
While I hope my nephew doesn’t take off for the Metropolitan Museum of Art as the protagonists do, the allure of running away to such an iconic place is undeniable after reading this captivating tale. -
Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
Few books evoke the essence of summer like this one. The deep friendship between Jess and Leslie and their imaginative kingdom is beautifully portrayed, and despite the book’s heart-wrenching conclusion, its magical elements linger in memory. -
Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren
Pippi, the spirited redhead with a unique lifestyle, was my childhood hero. I longed for adventures alongside her, much like her friends Tommy and Annika. The sequels, Pippi Goes on Board and Pippi in the South Seas, continue Pippi’s wild escapades and adventures.
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In summary, these classic and contemporary titles offer a rich tapestry of stories that are sure to engage any young reader’s imagination and foster a love for literature.