Free Summer Reading Log Printable For Kids

Have fun tracking books this summer with our free printable reading log for kids.

We started using summer reading logs when my son was younger as a simple way to keep reading part of our daily routine during school breaks. Some summers he filled the page in weeks, other years it was more about encouraging consistency than quantity.

This printable lets kids track book titles, pages read, reading dates, and star ratings in a way that feels easy rather than overwhelming.

It works well for elementary students, homeschool families, classrooms, library challenges, or just encouraging a little more reading over summer break.

**This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.**

How to Use the Reading Logs

These free printable reading logs are available for personal and classroom use. Scroll to the bottom of the post and enter your email address to get the printable PDF.

There are three versions included:

• one full-color reading log
• two black-and-white versions for easier printing

If your kids choose one of the black-and-white versions, they can color it in before they start tracking their books.

We usually keep our reading log on the refrigerator so it’s easy to update after reading time, but you could also keep it in a reading basket, binder, or homework area.

What Kids Can Track

• book titles
• pages read
• reading dates
• star ratings
• favorite summer books

My son started filling his in almost immediately and was already onto a second page within a couple of weeks, although he’s always been the type to finish a chapter book in a day or two.

You can also pair the printable with our summer book lists and reading activities for even more reading inspiration over the break.

Easy Ways to Encourage Summer Reading

Summer reading works best when it feels relaxed rather than something kids are being forced to do. Over the years, I’ve found that giving kids more choice makes a huge difference, especially during school breaks when they’re ready for a little freedom.

One of the easiest ways to encourage reading is to let kids pick books that genuinely interest them, even if that means graphic novels, joke books, comics, or books that seem “too easy.” The goal during summer is building positive reading habits, not assigning difficult reading lists.

We also like keeping books visible around the house instead of tucked away on shelves. A basket of library books in the living room or keeping a few books in the car often leads to more spontaneous reading.

Reading logs can help too, especially for kids who enjoy tracking progress or setting small goals. Some children love filling in every book they finish, while others prefer tracking pages or reading days instead.

A few other things that have helped us:

• visiting the library regularly
• listening to audiobooks on road trips
• reading outside on warm evenings
• setting aside quiet family reading time
• letting kids stay up slightly later if they’re reading

Most importantly, keep it fun and low pressure. Even short daily reading sessions over summer can help kids maintain confidence and start the new school year feeling more prepared.

Summer Book Lists for Kids

If your kids need a little reading inspiration, these are some of our favorite recent books to pair with the summer reading log. I’ve tried to include a mix of picture books, early chapter books, and middle grade reads for different ages and interests.

• Knight Owl (ages 3–6) – A funny and surprisingly sweet picture book with great illustrations and lots of personality.
• Sir Ladybug (ages 6–8) – Perfect for younger readers who enjoy adventurous stories with humor and fast-moving chapters.
• Cat Kid Comic Club: On Purpose (ages 7–10) – Graphic novels are great for reluctant readers, and this one always seems to get kids laughing.
• The Marvellers (ages 8–11) – A fun fantasy choice for kids who love magical schools and adventure stories.
• Skandar and the Unicorn Thief (ages 8–12) – This one has been especially popular with fantasy-loving tweens and feels very fast-paced and cinematic.
• The Ogress and the Orphans (ages 9–12) – A thoughtful middle grade story with humor, heart, and a slightly fairy-tale feel.

These kinds of engaging summer books make it much easier for kids to stay motivated with reading, especially when they get to track their progress in the reading log.

More Summer Reading Activities for Kids

If your kids are enjoying the reading log, these printable reading activities and book-themed worksheets are great for keeping reading fun all summer long.

Our printable summer reading challenge adds extra motivation for kids who enjoy setting goals.

These printable bookmarks for kids make a fun low-prep reading activity.

Use the book review worksheet to help older kids reflect on what they’ve read.

Reading bingo is a great option for reluctant readers who prefer variety.

These low-prep reading activities work well for summer learning, library programs, homeschool groups, or quiet reading afternoons at home.

Get the Free Summer Reading Log PDF Here!

If you don’t see the form below, click here to get the free PDF.

Last Updated on 15 May 2026 by Clare Brown