Summer is fast approaching, which means your teens can take a break from textbooks and indulge in some reading for growth and personal development. The following books have meant a lot to our family, and they’re perfect for an afternoon in the hammock or a day at the beach!

Great Summer Reads for Teens

Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell – What makes high-achievers different from their peers? According to Malcolm Gladwell, it’s not their IQ or their genes. In fact, some of the most famous outliers were just ordinary people with an exceptional support network.

Rhinoceros Success by Scott Alexander – This book has been influencing rhinos and humans for more than 30 years. Want to charge forward toward success? Rhinoceros Success covers delightful ways to achieve financial, spiritual, and social accomplishments.

One Question: Life-Changing Answers from Today’s Leading Voices by Ken Coleman – If you could ask one question of the people you most admire in your life, what would it be? Join Ken Coleman as he interviews America’s most successful and inspiring people, asking just one question. Be prepared for inspiration, wisdom, and a bit of humor in this uplifting book.

The Art of Work by Jeff Goins – Do you sometimes feel like you’re floundering, wondering what your next step should be? Still don’t know what you want to be when you grow up? The Art of Work is full of inspirational stories about regular people embarking on extraordinary journeys.

Just Do Something by Kevin Deyoung – This biblical evaluation of technology asks tough questions about the digital explosion and how it is affecting our society, our families, and our communities.

Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis – This classic, published more than 70 years ago, takes a look at the fundamentals of Christian beliefs that are still relevant today. It goes beyond denominations, beyond who is right and wrong, and gets to the heart of what it means to be a Christian.

Total Truth by Nancy Pearcy – Total Truth takes a look at culture and religion throughout history and how it impacts the secular/religious divide in America. How can we overcome this divide and recover authentic spirituality?

Crazy Love by Francis Chan – How can you live your life so that you love God as fully and unconditionally as He loves you? An insightful and inspirational read for Christians who want to live their best lives while serving God.

Shadow of the Almighty by Elisabeth Elliot – A biography that reads like a novel, this is the story of Jim Elliot and his sacrificial life as a missionary to Indians in Ecuador.

Be The Change by Zach Hunter – Did you know that more people are bound in slavery today than in any point in history? This guidebook will inspire teens to help join forces and end the practice around the world.

Dug Down Deep by Joshua Harris – This attention-grabbing book is part memoir, part guide, focusing on what it really means to know God.

Do Hard Things by Brett and Alex Harris – Want to accomplish great things for God and the world you live in? Read this inspiring book. In a society that expects little from young people, it’s up to you to prove them wrong.

Kisses for Katie by Katie Harris – A passionate and vibrant story about a girl who gave up everything for a chance to serve God and the children of Uganda. Katie’s story may just inspire you to follow the road less traveled.

I hope you have your library card handy, because these awesome page-turners will encourage your teens to think, serve, and excel!

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