2025 SUMMER READING LISTS

Entering Grade 7

Entering Grade 8

Entering Grade 9

ELL

We believe readers need choice in their reading lives; therefore, all the boys are being given choice in their summer reading selections.   
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Upper School boys are expected to read three books during the summer. One is a required title specific to grade level and will be provided to current students before they leave for summer break. Your student can choose the other two books (choice books). Students needing inspiration can select books from the Fessenden Summer Reading Lists on the following pages. Further instructions are included on their respective grade pages. ​

If you happen to be using this website before school released for summer break, we have inserted images of our genre stickers at the top of each list, so you can browse our collection with ease. For instance, if you want a fantasy book, simply look for books on the Fessenden Library shelves that match the sticker at the top of our "Science Fiction and Fantasy" page.

Happy reading!                                                                                                

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Summer Reading FAQs:

Q: Can I read titles in audiobook form?
A: Yes!  There are a lot of benefits of listening to a book, especially if you can do it with other folks, on a car ride for instance. Read-alouds are also OK. A sibling or parent could read to you, or you could read to other family members!

Q: Can I read graphic novels?
A: Yes!  There are several benefits to reading graphic novels. Graphic novels have been shown to improve comprehension, build both vocabulary and empathy, and engage reluctant readers.

Q: How can I get these books?
A: There are lots of ways to borrow or buy your summer reading. Please note, you are not required to purchase the choice books. Students do not need to bring their choice books to school in the fall. For more ideas on how to get books, check out the sources below.

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Sources for borrowing books:

• ​SORA has ebooks and audiobooks
• Massachusetts Libraries allow you to check out physical books, ebooks and audiobooks. Look into Summer Reading Programs from your local library, sometimes there are fun activities and prizes!
• Boston Public Library eCards are free to students of Massachusetts schools (if you are out of the country, you will need the assistance of your librarian to get your eCard, but it’s worth it!)

Sources for buying books:

• Click on the Amazon link under the books in the list to buy from Amazon, or just to find out more about the book. (Note: the library receives a small amount of money if you purchase a book through these links.)
• Bookshop is a way to get books and support local bookstores
• Indiebound has a local bookshop locator
• Selected Black-Owned Bookstores to Support