Summer is the perfect time to help kids discover the joy of reading beyond the classroom. With fewer schedules and more free time, families can turn books into one of many summer adventures. From free books and reward programs to pizza coupons and bookstore challenges, we’ve rounded up the top summer reading programs to give children exciting reasons to keep turning pages all season long.

Top National Summer Reading Programs

• Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program
  • Kids in grades 1–6 read books and complete a reading journal
  • Earn a free book
  • One of the most recognized national programs
• Pizza Hut BOOK IT! Summer of Stories
  • Pre-K through 6th grade
  • Kids earn free Personal Pan Pizzas for meeting reading goals
  • Uses the BOOK IT! app for tracking
• Scholastic Summer Reading Home Base
  • Free digital reading world with books, games, author events, and rewards
  • Kids track reading streaks and unlock community goals
• Books-A-Million Summer Reading Adventure
  • Read designated books and complete a reading log
  • Earn a free “Camp BAM” backpack or prize
• Chuck E. Cheese Rewards Calendar
  • “Good habit” trackers earn kids free play points
  • Works year-round but heavily promoted in summer
• Half Price Books Summer Reading Camp
  • Kids track reading minutes
  • Earn “Bookworm Bucks” store rewards
• Mensa Kids Excellence in Reading Program
  • Free reading challenge with curated book lists
  • Kids can earn certificates and t-shirts
• Camp BOOK IT! Parent Program
  • Summer extension of the classic school-year BOOK IT! program
  • Family-focused reading tracking with pizza rewards
• Local Library Summer Reading Programs (via CSLP)
  • Most public libraries nationwide participate
  • Free books, performances, prizes, and events
  • Often the biggest reach nationally
• Scholastic Home Base App
  • Social reading platform for kids
  • Includes reading streaks, virtual events, and games during summer months

Happy reading!