Young adult woman with curly, wavy hair reading a book while lying on the grass. The scene captures a peaceful summer day, ideal for engaging in summer reading

Summer Reading Recommendations for Tweens, Teens, and Parents: Part 1 of a Part 3 series

Join us on our summer reading adventure 

Welcome to the first part of our summer reading challenge series! We’re passionate about modest fashion and faith-based accessories, and we also understand the importance of nurturing young minds. Throughout June, July, and August, we will be recommending books across various genres to engage tweens, teens, and their parents. Whether you're an avid reader or looking to spark a new interest, our summer reading challenge has something for everyone. Be sure to subscribe to our blog to get updates on each installment of this series!

Cozy up in your favorite place with your favorite beverage. Enhance your reading experience with our bookmarks and spiral journals that feature inspirational designs. Our products are designed to remind you of God’s love and promises.

Why Summer Reading is Important

Summer reading helps in retaining and promoting brain growth, keeping the mind active and engaged. As Proverbs 18:15 (NKJV) says, "The heart of the prudent acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge." It's a wonderful opportunity to grow in wisdom and understanding while enjoying a good book. Now, let's jump in to some of the recommendations to add to your summer reading list!

Non-Magical Mystery Books

For Tweens:

"The Boxcar Children" by Gertrude Chandler Warner
* Snapshot: A classic mystery series for young readers featuring four orphaned children who solve various mysteries.
* Why you need it: Promotes resourcefulness and family values.
* Buy "The Boxcar Children" - Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle

For Teens:

"And Then There Were None" by Agatha Christie
* Snapshot: Agatha Christie's Best-Selling Mystery. A gripping mystery novel that keeps readers guessing until the very end, without supernatural elements.
* Why you need it: Sharpens critical thinking and deduction skills.
Purchase "And Then There Were None" - Print, Kindle, Audiobook

    Historical Fiction

    For Tweens:

    "Number the Stars" by Lois Lowry
    * Snapshot: Historical Fiction for Middle Schoolers.  A moving story set during World War II, focusing on bravery and friendship.
    * Why you need it: Teaches historical empathy and the importance of standing up for what is right.
    Get "Number the Stars" - Available in Multiple Formats

    For Teens:
    "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah  
    * Snapshot: A powerful novel about two sisters in Nazi-occupied France during World War II.
    * Why: Highlights the strength of women and the importance of family.
    * Buy "The Nightingale" - Print, Kindle, Audiobook

    Poetry

    For Tweens and Teens:

    "Poems to Live Your Life By" by Chris Riddell
    * Snapshot: A beautifully illustrated collection of poems selected to inspire and comfort readers.
    * Why: Offers timeless wisdom and encouragement through a curated selection of uplifting poetry.
    * Purchase "Poems to Live Your Life By" - Print & Digital Editions

      Friendships and Rom-Com

      For Tweens:

      "The Penderwicks" by Jeanne Birdsall
      * Snapshot: A delightful series about the adventures of four sisters, with clean humor and heartwarming moments.
      * Why: Encourages family bonding and imaginative play.
      * Get "The Penderwicks" - Available in Multiple Formats 

       

        For Teens:

        "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
        * Snapshot: A classic novel about the romantic entanglements of the Bennet sisters in early 19th century England.
        * Why: Celebrates themes of love, character, and social dynamics with enduring relevance.
        * Get "Pride and Prejudice" - New, Used, Audiobook

        Anime

        For Tweens and Teens:

        "Fruits Basket" by Natsuki Takaya

         

        * Snapshot: A heartwarming story about family, friendship, and acceptance with clean themes.
        * Why: Encourages empathy and understanding.
        * Discover "Fruits Basket" - Manga and Anime Collection
         

        Sex and Gender Identity

        Why These Books Are Important
        Understanding gender identity and sexuality through a biblical lens is crucial for Christian tweens, teens, and young adults. These books provide the necessary guidance, helping to navigate these complex topics with faith, compassion, and conviction. As Ephesians 4:15 (NKJV) says, "But, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ." By exploring these resources, young people can develop a stronger, biblically grounded understanding of their identity and relationships, empowering them to live faithfully in today's world.
        For Teens:
        "God and the Transgender Debate: What Does the Bible Actually Say about Gender Identity?" by Andrew T. Walker
        * Snapshot: An exploration of biblical teachings on gender identity, aimed at helping Christians understand and respond compassionately.
        * Why: Provides teens with a thoughtful, biblically grounded perspective on gender identity.
        * Buy "God and the Transgender Debate" - Print, Kindle, Audiobook
        For Tweens to Young Adults:
        "Holy Sexuality and the Gospel: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by God's Grand Story" by Christopher Yuan
        * Snapshot: A video series, curriculum, and book that integrates biblical theology with practical insights on sexuality and relationships.
        * Why: Offers a holistic and gospel-centered view of sexuality and identity for young adults.
        * Get "Holy Sexuality and the Gospel" - Available in Multiple Formats
        For Parents:
        "The Talk: 7 Lessons to Introduce Your Child to Biblical Sexuality" by Luke Gilkerson 
        * Snapshot: A guide to help parents discuss sexuality with their children from a biblical perspective.
        * Why: Provides a strong foundation for understanding sexuality from a Christian perspective.
        * Find "The Talk" - Biblical Guide for Parents and Kids
        

        Scripture to Meditate On

        As you embark on your summer reading journey, reflect on,
        "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things."
        — Philippians 4:8 (NKJV)
        Let this scripture guide you as you grow in knowledge and faith.

        Thank you for choosing us for your summer reading and faith-based accessory needs. Happy reading!
        This wraps up our 1st part of our summer reading series recommendations from tweens to young adults! Know that we provided recommendations that are clean and not dystopian in nature and conforms to our readers values. These books are timeless and provide lasting value through the lessons they impart. While we offer carefully curated selections that align with your faith and values, parents, do review any recommendations to be sure as each family is unique in your expectations. Sign up to get notified when the second part of the series come out!
        We love hearing from our readers! Share you thoughts on the books that you read from our recommendations, share your book recommendations to be included in our next series, and your favorite summer reading memories in the comments section below. Let's spark conversations and build a community of book lovers together. Don't be shy - your voice matters :)

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