Summer Mentor Texts for Big Kids (and tips for using them!)

   Summer stories are magical—the ones filled with backyard adventures, moments by the water, and the freedom you only feel when the school bell stops ringing.

These stories often carry deep messages—making them perfect mentor texts for teaching theme, character development, and author’s purpose.

In this post, I’m sharing 10 summer mentor texts that work beautifully in the upper elementary classroom. I’ll also include tips for using each text to support ELA standards, spark conversations, and keep your readers connected all season long.

We are the Gardeners By: Joanna Gaines

Literary Elements: Character, Plot

Themes to Explore: Perseverance, Responsibility, Growth

This charming story follows a family's journey as they learn to grow a garden. Teachers can use it to explore how characters respond to challenges and the deeper message of nurturing something over time.

There was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Shell By: Lucille Colandro

Literary Elements: Rhyme, Repetition

Themes to Explore: Humor, Sequence

A silly twist on the classic “Old Lady” rhyme, this beach-themed version is perfect for practicing sequencing and predicting. 

Blueberries for Sal By: Robert McCloskey

Literary Elements: Plot, Point of View

Themes to Explore: Independence, Nature

This classic tells the parallel adventures of a girl and a bear cub on a summer berry-picking day. Teachers can use it to compare perspectives and discuss how curiosity can lead to unexpected (and humorous) surprises.

Time of Wonder By: Robert McCloskey

Literary Elements: Imagery, Mood

Themes to Explore: Nature, Reflection, Change

With poetic language and sweeping illustrations, this story captures the beauty and unpredictability of a coastal summer. It's perfect for teaching imagery and tone.

The Camping Trip By: Jennifer K. Mann

Literary Elements: Character, Dialogue

Themes to Explore: Courage, Friendship

Follow a young girl on her first camping trip. Teachers can explore character development and how dialogue reveals feelings.

Come On, Rain! By: Karen Hesse

Literary Elements: Figurative Language, Setting

Themes to Explore: Community, Hope

Set on a sweltering summer day, this lyrical text captures the joy and relief that comes with a long-awaited rain. Ideal for modeling sensory details and figurative language in writing.

Jabari Jumps By: Gaia Cornwall

Literary Elements: Internal Conflict, Resolution
Themes to Explore: Bravery, Growth Mindset

Jabari faces his fear of the diving board with encouragement from his dad. This story is great for discussing how internal conflict builds character.

I Talk Like a River By: Jordan Scott

Literary Elements: Metaphor, Mood

Themes to Explore: Identity, Acceptance, Self-Esteem

A boy who stutters finds comfort in the metaphor of a river. This text is perfect for teaching mood and figurative language while encouraging self-expression.

Outside In By: Deborah Underwood

Literary Elements: Imagery, Theme

Themes to Explore: Nature, Mindfulness

This quiet, powerful text invites readers to notice how nature surrounds and influences us—even when we’re indoors. It’s ideal for teaching sensory language and reflective writing.

Hello Lighthouse By: Sophie Blackall

Literary Elements: Setting, Personification

Themes to Explore: Change, Isolation, Perseverance

Telling the story of a lighthouse keeper and his family, this book weaves setting into every page. It’s excellent for exploring personification, historical context, and the passage of time.

Have I missed any of your favorites? I’d love for you to share them with me over on my instagram @fifthintheforest!

             

         

             

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