What We Are Reading This Summer (and Why)

At High Meadows, we believe summer is the perfect time to double down on the joy of reading—for children, parents, and educators alike. Whether it’s a student devouring a fantasy novel, a parent exploring new approaches to parenting, or a teacher diving into books that deepen cultural understanding, reading opens doors to connection, curiosity, and growth.

That joy is increasingly important in a world where fewer kids and adults are reading books from start to finish. In 1984, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, 35 percent of 13-year-olds read for fun almost every day. By 2023, that number had dropped to 14 percent.

The cost of that decline is significant. The National Assessment of Educational Progress reports that 33 percent of eighth graders have “below basic” reading skills. Even worse, data show that one in three American adults can only read at the level of a 10-year-old.

The High Meadows community is gearing up to do a lot of reading this summer, and we’re happy to share our lists — books for students, for parents, and for faculty and staff – as inspiration. These selections reflect our school’s values, support continued learning, and most importantly, celebrate the power of stories to bring us together.

Reading is a great summer activity — it's fun, portable, and can involve the whole family. HMS Librarian Kim Platnick says, “Providing high-interest reading materials and opportunities can build reading skills, confidence, and enjoyment. Summer reading also helps maintain the reading progress students have made during the school year.” Platnick adds, “Student choice is important for reading engagement.”

To support students in staying engaged, we offer age-appropriate summer reading options across all grade levels.

Students entering grades Pre-K through 5 are free to choose any books they want from grade-level suggestions curated by the teachers and librarian. There are no specific requirements for this age group and students can enjoy their books independently or as read-alouds with others. See our lists for students entering Pre-K, Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, and Grade 5.

Students entering grades 6 and 7 are asked to read two books–one realistic fiction selection and one science fiction or narrative nonfiction option from curated lists or a book of choice that is similar to those listed. For social studies, sixth and seventh graders read three news articles from reputable sources about countries other than the United States. See our list.

Students entering grade 8 must read three books–one dystopian/gothic novel, one from the storytelling group, and one from a historical fiction and social justice list. See our list.

One of the best ways to encourage kids to read by choice is to make books readily available. Experts say that reading at home can more than double literacy skills and academic success. This resource from Scholastic offers suggestions on ways to support a culture of reading at home. How to Create Literacy Rich Homes (Even on a Budget)

Fostering a love of reading doesn’t stop with students. Parents play a powerful role in building literacy-rich environments at home — whether through modeling, discussions, or choosing thought-provoking books of your own.

Parents of children in progressive K–8 schools are often interested in reading about education, child development, social justice, and parenting approaches that align with the values of progressive education (e.g., child-centered learning, equity, critical thinking, and creativity). High Meadows educators suggest a few books to add to your nightstand if you are looking to learn more about what’s going on in your child’s noggin. 

Good Inside: A Practical Guide to Resilient Parenting Prioritizing Connection Over Correction by Dr. Becky Kennedy

Schuman often recommends Dr. Becky to parents, saying, “She has great parenting advice that aligns very well with High Meadows philosophies. She also has a podcast and a lot of great information on her website.” 

Positive Discipline: The Classic Guide to Helping Children Develop Self-Discipline, Responsibility, Cooperation, and Problem-Solving Skills by Jane Nelson Ed.D. 

“Since we use Positive Discipline strategies at school, it can be especially powerful when families apply the same approach at home,” says Schuman.

The Importance of Being Little: What Young Children Really Need from Grownups by Erika Christakis offers lessons in the importance of play, community, and a relationship-based educational environment. “It is High Meadows,” says Kennedy.

The Teenage Brain by Frances E. Jensen and Amy Ellis Nutt – A neuroscientist's survival guide to raising adolescents and young adults

Free to Learn by Peter Gray – emphasizes self-directed education and critiques standardized schooling.

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt – explores the impact of smartphones and modern pressures on young people.

How to Raise an Adult by Julie Lythcott-Haims – on promoting independence and resilience.

The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel & Tina Payne Bryson – neuroscience-based parenting strategies.

Reading for growth and connection doesn’t end in the classroom. Faculty and staff at High Meadows are also diving into meaningful texts this summer as part of a Summer Book Read focused on cultural competency and responsiveness.

The Little Book of Restorative Discipline for Schools: Teaching Responsibility; Creating Caring Climates. 

In addition, they will choose from a set of books tailored to their roles — classroom-focused selections for faculty, and broader cultural competency texts for non-teaching staff. Follow-up conversations will take place during the 2025–2026 school year.

Selections include:

So You want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo

The Identity Conscious Educator: Building Habits and Skills for a More Inclusive School by Liza Talusan

Blindspot: Hidden Biases of Good People by Anthony Greenwald and Mahzarin Banaji

Culturally Responsive Classrooms and the Brain: Promoting Authentic Engagement and Rigor Among Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students by Zaretta Hammond

Why Does Everything Have to Be About Race?: 25 Arguments That Won't Go Away by Keith Boykin

Unearthing Joy: A Guide to Culturally and Historically Responsive Curriculum and Instruction by Gholdy Muhammad

Everyday Antiracism: Getting Real about Race in School by Mica Pollock

The Dreamkeepers: Successful Teachers of African American Children by Gloria Ladson-Billings

Whether you’re flipping through the pages of a picture book with your preschooler, lounging with a library haul, or diving into professional reads that push your thinking, there’s something powerful about making time for books during the summer. At High Meadows, we believe that reading is not just a skill—it’s a doorway to curiosity, empathy, and lifelong learning. So find a story that speaks to you, share it with your child, and savor the joy of getting lost—and found—in a good book.