As a former book-loving tween, I remember the thrill of diving into new stories, navigating the pages of Judy Blume and Beverly Cleary, and devouring every title I could find in the local bookstore. Those days were filled with excitement, and luckily, my 11-year-old niece shares that same passion for reading! I like to think of myself as her guide through the literary treasures of the past—and while I do introduce her to modern classics such as The Giver, I believe that these timeless gems are perfect for sparking her imagination this summer. Here’s a selection of captivating reads that will surely entice any preteen to step away from their screens for a bit.
-
Harriet the Spy, by Louise Fitzhugh
Imagine Harriet with a blog—she would be a sensation! Her keen observations, complex relationship with her beloved nanny Ole Golly, and the chaos that ensues when her friends find her secret notebook make this story irresistible. And don’t miss the sequel, The Long Secret, where Harriet and her friend Beth Ellen embark on a thrilling mystery in Montauk. -
A Wrinkle in Time, by Madeleine L’Engle
This groundbreaking tale blew me away at age 11, and I’m on the edge of my seat waiting to see how my niece reacts! Follow Meg and Charles Wallace as they journey through time and space—this is the kind of science fiction that even non-sci-fi fans can revel in, with the wonders of the tesseract (the fifth dimension!) leaving readers in awe. -
All-of-a-Kind Family, by Sydney Taylor
This delightful series about five Jewish sisters in early 20th-century New York sparked my imagination as a child. I can picture my niece giggling at the whimsical adventures of Charlotte and Gertie as they create a fantastical house in their shared bed, indulging in crackers and chocolate babies—whatever those are! -
From the Mixed-up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, by E.L. Konigsburg
While I hope my niece doesn’t decide to run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, I wouldn’t blame her after getting lost in this charming tale. -
Bridge to Terabithia, by Katherine Paterson
Nothing captures the essence of summer quite like Bridge to Terabithia. I envied the beautiful friendship between Jess and Leslie and the magical kingdom they created together. Even with its heart-wrenching ending, I remember it as a story of wonder. -
Pippi Longstocking, by Astrid Lindgren
Pippi is the epitome of carefree adventure—a wild girl living in a whimsical home with a monkey and a horse. Just like Taylor Swift today, Pippi was the ultimate icon of fun for my childhood self. Her adventures in Pippi Goes on Board and Pippi in the South Seas are not to be missed!
These selections are sure to inspire and entertain, creating lasting memories for your tween this summer. If you’re interested in further engaging content, check out this post from one of our other blogs. And for a comprehensive guide on home insemination, visiting Make A Mom is a great resource for those looking to explore their options. Additionally, for further reading on intrauterine insemination, Healthline provides excellent insights.
In summary, these timeless books not only serve as perfect summer reads to engage your tween’s imagination but also create opportunities for bonding and shared adventures in storytelling.