A homeschooler's summer vibes: cold drinks, sprinklers, popsicles, and picking your read-alouds for another school year.
With so many amazing books, I know how hard it can be to choose which read-aloud you want to read for the school year. That doesn't even take into account the different topics you want to cover, kids with different opinions and ages, and what curriculum to use alongside the books.
I find it so helpful to see what others are choosing. So here is what we are planning to do this year.
For some background: I have four kids, ages 13, 8, 7, and a baby. I have to consider a wide range of ages and what books will appeal to all of them. We have also reached the stage where I would love to revisit some books I read with my oldest, this time for the benefit of my younger ones.
Our 2026-2027 Line-Up
September: The Trumpet of the Swan
This is a repeat for us, although even my 13-year-old hasn't visited this literary masterpiece in six years. I am so excited to head back to the pond with Louis. This book was a read-aloud in my own public school education, and I still remember my teacher wrapping our hands in plastic wrap and having us try to pick up our pencils. Then she went around and cut the "webbing" between our fingers, just like Louis.
October: The Undead Fox of the Deadwood Forest
This one is geared more toward my oldest two, but I know the topics will appeal to all of my kids. I am excited for this read-aloud to align with autumn and All Saints Day. I also like to make sure my kids are experiencing books that are popular among their peers so they don't feel like they missed out on the cultural experiences of their generation.
December: Winterhouse
I am so excited to re-enter Winterhouse. This is a personal favorite and such a cozy winter read. It is filled with mystery, literary logic puzzles, and cozy sleuthing. My kids are starting to phase out of crafty Christmas school activities, and I wanted to find something more geared toward their ages.
January: Harriet Tubman
My son absolutely loves Harriet Tubman. He is so fascinated by her life and bravery. This was actually his request, that we spend real time learning about her and the Underground Railroad. It is especially meaningful for us living in Pennsylvania. I am determined to take some epic field trips to Underground Railroad historical sites right here in our own state.
February: A Bear Called Paddington
This one was picked specifically by my seven-year-old. We love the movies, but my kids have never read the actual book. She is especially excited to make marmalade. This is a light-hearted, easy read to help close out our year on a gentle note. February is a hard month to keep going, and I think this is the perfect pick.
April: The Nerviest Girl in the World
This one has been on my list for years, and we are finally doing it! My older kids are excited to create our own silent film, and I cannot wait to revisit this story. Did you know that Melissa Wiley reads her work aloud to make sure it sounds good when read out loud? Of course she does. She's a homeschool mom just like us!
Reading Is Better Together
For some of these picks, we will be reading alongside friends, and that makes such a difference. Built-in accountability is so helpful for keeping us on track, and we love having the chance to host book club parties together. If you are looking for accountability this year, I will be posting the projects and activities on Instagram as we work through each read-aloud.
You may have noticed some missing months. I will share what we plan to do during those months soon. They look a little different because of holidays, so we are doing something slightly shorter. I will also share later this summer what curriculum I am using for each of my kids' individual studies. This is a big year for my 13-year-old as he transitions into the secondary level of homeschool. I am so excited to give him the tools he needs heading into high school, so he can spend his time exploring things he is passionate about rather than working to learn skills he can already have mastered.
Ready to Dive In?
Right now is a great time to stock up during my BOGO sale (the best sale of the year!). Browse my guides and find the perfect companion for your next read-aloud.
