Summer is the perfect time to encourage your child’s reading in a way that feels fun, social, and relaxed. Hosting a children’s book club helps kids stay engaged with literature while still enjoying the carefree days of summer. Whether you’re planning something simple in your backyard or organizing a weekly event with friends, a book club offers a mix of structure and flexibility—and can turn even reluctant readers into excited participants. Here’s how to host a memorable and meaningful book club experience for children this summer.

Choose the Right Age Group

The first step is deciding who your book club is for. A book club for early elementary students will look quite different from one geared toward middle schoolers. Try to keep participants within a similar age range or reading level to ensure that book choices and discussion formats are age-appropriate and enjoyable for everyone. You may even consider hosting two small groups if you have a wide age spread.

Select Engaging and Age-Appropriate Books

Choose books that are fun, accessible, and rich in discussion potential. For younger readers, consider short chapter books or picture books with deeper themes. Older kids might enjoy middle-grade novels or even graphic novels. Try to limit each book’s length to something that can be read in one to two weeks, especially if your club only meets a few times during the summer. And, whenever possible, involve the children in the book selection process—giving them a say will increase their investment.

Here are a few popular and well-loved titles to get you started:

• Ivy + Bean by Annie Barrows (younger readers)
• The Wild Robot by Peter Brown (middle grades)
• Front Desk by Kelly Yang (upper elementary/middle school)
• Dog Man series by Dav Pilkey (reluctant readers)
• El Deafo by Cece Bell (graphic novel)

Set a Schedule That Works

Summer schedules can be unpredictable with camps, vacations, and family outings, so aim for a flexible plan. Decide whether your club will meet weekly, biweekly, or monthly. One hour is usually the sweet spot for each session—long enough for discussion and an activity, but short enough to keep young readers engaged. Afternoon or early evening tends to work well, especially if you’re planning for outdoor fun afterward.

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere

Set up a cozy and fun space for your club gatherings. Outdoor book clubs are especially great in summer—try picnic blankets under a tree, a shady deck, or even a small tent. Have snacks on hand and encourage younger kids to bring their favorite stuffed animal or pillow. You can

 even rotate homes if multiple families are involved, giving each week a slightly new vibe.

For themed fun, match the snacks or decorations to the book. Reading Charlotte’s Web? Serve up “piggy” cupcakes or decorate with barnyard-themed tableware. Reading a fantasy story? Hang a few twinkly lights or create a magical reading corner.

Make it Fun! Keep the Discussions Interactive and Include Related Activities

Children’s book clubs shouldn’t feel like a classroom discussion. Instead, ask open-ended, fun questions like “Which character would you want as your best friend?” “What would you do in the main character’s shoes?” and “Did the ending surprise you?”

Use creative prompts like drawing a new book cover, acting out a favorite scene, or creating a mini craft related to the story. Older kids might enjoy writing a letter to the author or drafting an alternate ending. The goal is to inspire connection and critical thinking without pressure.

Don’t forget to make your book club more than just talking about the story. Adding a hands-on activity will bring the book to life. A few simple ideas include:

• Crafts: Create character puppets or make bookmarks.
• Games: Play trivia or scavenger hunts based on the book.
• STEM Tie-ins: If the book includes a science or nature theme, plan a related experiment.
• Food Fun: Make a snack mentioned in the story or inspired by a character.

Incorporating these extras makes the book club feel more like a celebration than a school assignment.

End with a Celebration

Wrap up your summer book club with a finale party! Younger kids can dress up as their favorite book character, bring a themed snack, or do a short show-and-tell about their favorite book from the club. You might even hand out small prizes or certificates of participation to commemorate their summer reading journey.

Hosting a children’s book club this summer is more than just a way to keep kids reading—it’s a chance to build community, creativity, and confidence. When reading becomes social and fun, it stops being a chore and starts becoming a treasured habit. When you a host book club, you’re creating memories—and readers—for life.

About Success Won’t Wait

Founded in 2002, Success Won’t Wait is a not-for-profit literacy organization based in Wilmington, Delaware. Want to learn more about Success Won’t Wait’s literacy projects, how to donate used children’s books in Delaware, or volunteer your time? Click on the About Us tab above.

Read now, because success won’t wait!