Summer reading requirements

[Gwen Porter]

Every year I compile the required summer reading lists for our rising 4th through 7th grade students. The teachers choose the titles (with my assistance). On each list is one required book plus the choice of one additional book. The lists don't change much from year to year (several old Newbery winners), but I think they are in need of some fresh titles, fresh ideas, etc. Any suggestions? Is required summer reading necessary?

[Tiffany Whitehead]

Does your state have some type of "student choice" award? I know in Louisiana we have LYRC books each year, and the schools in my district put those on the summer reading lists.

[Gwen Porter]

We do have "student choice" awards in Georgia. Those would possibly be some good choices. Thanks for your input.

[Pauline MacDonald-Smith]

How do you qualify "required summer reading"? Is it more of a suggestion or is someone checking in Sept.?
I think I would change the term from "required summer reading" to "just for fun" summer reading or suggested summer readings.

Here are some books I would recommend for "just for fun" summer reading: The Miraculous Journey of Edward Toulane by Kate di Camillo (fabulous story), books by Deborah Ellis such as The Bread Winner and Parvani's Journey, books by Kenneth Oppel like Silver Wing and the books that follow that series. The last two are Canadian authors.

[Gwen Porter]

Required means that the student has to do some kind of book report and there is a quiz on the book the first week of school. And it is the school (teachers), not I, who make it required.
Your suggestions sound good--I love Di Camillo's books. I'll look into the other two authors. Thanks for your input.