Summer break is wonderful — but without a plan, it can turn into screen time on repeat fast. A summer reading log is one of the simplest ways to keep kids engaged all season long.
With four kids at very different reading levels, I’ve seen firsthand how much it helps to have a simple, satisfying way to track what they’ve read.
There’s something about filling in a page that makes kids actually want to keep going. It’s a small thing, but it works!
This free printable summer reading log is designed to be fun, not like homework. Each page has space to draw a picture, write the title, and jot down a quick thought — their words, no book report required.
Print it out, grab some colored pencils, and let them make it their own.
Why You’ll Love This Summer Reading Log
- A sweet keepsake — it’s fun to look back on at the end of summer and remember every book
- It’s completely free — just download, print, and go
- Kids of all ages can use it — works for early readers and older kids alike
- No pressure format — kids write or draw whatever they want, no formal summaries required
- Makes reading feel like an achievement — watching the pages fill up is genuinely motivating
- Easy to assemble — staple pages together into a little book, or use them individually
What’s Included in the Summer Reading Log
This printable set includes two pages:
- A cover page — to write their name and decorate however they like
- Individual log pages (print as many as you need!) — each one has:
- A stamp/box to write the book title
- A drawing space to illustrate their favorite scene or character
- Lines to write a short note or reaction to the book
What You’ll Need
- Paper
- Stapler (optional)
- Colored pencils
, crayons, and/or pencils
You’ll also need books for your littles to read! You can find so many great options at your local library, or check out this list of 29+ must-read books for ages 9-12 to get started.
How to Set It Up
Print your pages. Download the summer reading log below, then print one copy of the cover page. Print as many log pages as you think your child will need — you can always print more as the summer goes on!
Assemble your booklet (optional). Stack the cover on top of the log pages and staple along the left edge to create a little reading journal. Alternatively, you can keep the pages loose and clip them together at the end of summer — totally up to you and what works best for your kids.
Fill it in after each book. Once your child finishes a book, have them fill out a page. There’s no right or wrong way to do it — the drawing can be simple, and the note can be one sentence or ten. The goal is just to capture a little memory of each story.
Keep it somewhere visible. We like to keep ours on the kitchen counter or in a reading basket so it’s easy to grab. The easier it is to access, the more likely kids are to actually fill it in.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Summer Reading Log
Let kids lead the descriptions. I made it clear to my kids that I wasn’t looking for a book report — just their honest reaction. That took the pressure off completely, and the results were so much more fun. One of my daughters wrote that a book was “epic.” Another wrote two words: “it’s okay.” Both are perfect.
Print a fresh batch every few weeks. If you have a big reader, print 10–15 pages to start and keep extras nearby. Running out mid-summer is a buzzkill!
Make the cover special. Let your child spend time decorating their cover page before they start. It creates a sense of ownership and makes them more likely to want to fill the whole thing up.
Use it alongside a library summer reading program. Most public libraries have their own summer reading challenges — this log works great as a companion to track the actual books alongside whatever the library program requires.
Don’t stress about the drawings. Stick figures and scribbles are totally welcome. It’s about the memory, not the art.
Download Your Free Summer Reading Log
Ready to get started?
👉🏼 Click here to download the printable summer reading log for kids!
FAQs
What age is this summer reading log designed for?
It works well for kids roughly ages 5–12, but honestly any age can enjoy it.
Younger kids can draw pictures and dictate what they want to say while you write it for them. Older kids can write longer notes if they want.
How many log pages should I print?
That depends on your reader! A good starting point is 10–15 pages. You can always print more — there’s no limit.
Is there a summer reading chart in this download?
No — the summer reading log (this post!) and the summer reading chart are two separate free printables. The chart is a goal-tracking tool with space for rewards and milestones. You can find the free reading chart here.
Can I use this in a classroom or library setting?
Absolutely! This is a personal use printable, but it’s a great fit for small groups, summer reading clubs, or library programs.
Do I need to laminate anything?
Nope! Just print on regular printer paper and you’re all set.
Extend the Activity
This summer reading log goes perfectly with our free printable summer reading chart for kids, where you can set up goals and offer rewards too. You can download that here.
More Fun Summer Activities for Kids
Jennifer says
That is such a great idea! The best way to get and keep kids interested in learning is to make it fun. I love that section for drawing a picture about the story, as well.
Ellen says
Those are adorable. It can be a challenge to keep kids reading through the summer.
Kristi says
A great idea. Our girls both love to read so they would for sure get into this. Maybe I could find some rewards or prizes to go along with it too!
Susan says
These are super cute! I would love to print some of these out to have my daughter and niece to print out and color!
Brett says
Reading is great, but reading comprehension is fundamental! I love that this teaches kids to go over what they’ve read to make sure they remember what was in the book that they read. I especially like that they can draw it out for further comprehension!