How to Stay Engaged in Reading Books Over Summer Break

Summer break often brings a welcome pause from routines, obligations, and academic pressures. But amid summer camp, beach days, and sleeping in, one thing can easily fall by the wayside: reading. Staying engaged with books over the summer doesn’t have to be a chore. Here are practical and enjoyable ways to keep turning those pages all summer long.

1. Create a Summer Reading List (That You’re Actually Excited About)

If you haven’t received a mandatory school list (or even if you have), be sure to choose books that excite you—whether that’s fantasy, memoir, romance, or sci-fi. Make your summer reading list personal, fun, and full of variety. Not sure where to start? Ask friends with similar interests what they’ve loved recently.

2. Set a (Flexible) Reading Goal

Challenge yourself with a summer reading goal—number of books, chapters per week, or just 15 minutes a day. Keep it light and flexible. The point is to motivate, not stress. Apps like Goodreads or StoryGraph can help you track your progress and stay inspired.

3. Create a Reading Routine

Anchor your reading time to daily habits—read a few pages when you wake up in the morning, during lunch, or before bed. Establishing a consistent window, even if short, keeps reading from slipping off your radar.

4. Join a Book Club or Reading Challenge

Even if it’s virtual or just with a few friends, a book club adds accountability and fun. Plus, discussing what you’re reading deepens your engagement. Summer reading challenges—like those hosted by local libraries or online communities—can also give you a boost.

5. Keep a Reading Journal

Jot down thoughts, quotes, or mini-reviews of the books you finish. It’ll make you more reflective and help you remember the stories long after summer ends.

6. Read Outside (Literally)

Take your book to a hammock, a park, or even your porch. Reading outdoors can transform the experience—add a breeze and some sunlight, and you’ve got the perfect summer setup.

7. Don’t Be Afraid to DNF (Did Not Finish)

If a book’s not clicking, drop it. Life’s too short to read something you dread (unless it’s a required summer reading assignment for school!). The goal is to enjoy reading, not grind through it. Move on to something that actually excites you.

8. Celebrate Your Reading Wins

Finished your first book of the summer? Treat yourself—get a smoothie, visit a bookstore, or share your thoughts online. Small rewards and recognition make the habit more gratifying.

Final Thoughts

Reading during summer break isn’t about forcing productivity—it’s about rediscovering the joy of stories, ideas, and imagination without the pressure. Whether you devour ten novels or just one that really sticks with you, staying engaged in reading can make your summer more relaxing, enriching, and surprisingly memorable.

So find a book, grab a cold drink, and let yourself get lost in the pages. Summer is calling—and so are the stories waiting to be read.

I’m available all summer to help with any of your tutoring needs (and I’m looking forward to some summer reading of my own)! ~Lucas