Family Movie Night
Summer Book Club
Combine the fun of a summer reading program with the tradition of family movie night for a fun and simple way to study literature and explore the arts this summer.
An Approach to Summer Reading That Brings Your Family Together
In our family, we’ve found that the perfect way to end a long, active summer day is to cuddle up on the couch and watch a family movie together.
As regular movie-goers and people who appreciate the arts, we enjoy watching, discussing, and even critiquing film and literature as a family. This has been such a great way to learn, grow, and connect as a family!
Fun & Flexible Summer Learning
As I worked to put together our reading and movie list for this summer, I thought it would be fun to share our process with you all. I’ve included a list with lots of options, plus some simple worksheets and prompts to help guide your own family’s discussions.
This is a great option if you’re looking for a more relaxed approach to homeschooling through the busy summer months. It’s also a helpful way to keep learning fresh and engaging while avoiding that summer learning dip.
Curated Book & Movie Lists
I’ve divided the book and movie list into categories so you can easily pick what fits your family’s ages and interests.
All Ages & Family-Friendly Picks
These beloved classics are ideal for younger kids, family read-alouds, or anyone looking for something on the lighter side. Many are picture books or early chapter books with movie adaptations that the whole family can enjoy together.
Engaging Stories for Independent Readers
These books and films are perfect for independent readers and families ready for more complex plots and character development.
Deeper Themes for Middle Grades & Teens
These stories explore themes such as identity, loss, courage, and transformation. Perfect for teens or for families ready for deeper conversations.
Stories for Deep Discussion & Mature Audiences
These books touch on justice, war, race, human rights, and social commentary. Ideal for older teens or adult family members. Please preview for age-appropriateness.
Make It Your Own!
Start by reviewing the list and choosing the book and movie pairings that are right for your family. Think of a few of your own and add them in! We like to have a mix of difficulty levels, genres, and tones to keep things interesting. Pick what feels right for your family. Maybe you want to focus on fun and nostalgia, or maybe you're looking for stories to help shape your family’s values and worldview through deeper conversations.
☀️ Get the kids involved. Let them help pick what to read and watch, or ask your librarian for suggestions based on your family's interests.
🍿 Check for upcoming releases. Is there a movie coming to theaters soon that's based on a book? Read it together before seeing it on the big screen.
📖 Include graphic novels. For kids who struggle with long chapter books, graphic novel versions can help them enjoy the story too.
💞 Keep it relaxed. Don’t feel like you have to quiz your kids. Feel free to skip the deep literary analysis. This is all about making good memories together.
✨ Check your favorite movies and books. You might be surprised how many of your favorite movies were based on books. You can also search your favorite books to see if they’ve been adapted into films or shows.
📚 Join your local library’s summer reading challenge to earn rewards while you read! Many libraries offer prizes, free events, or other perks to make the most of your summer reading fun.
Download the Free Printable!
This free resource is available to members and includes everything you need to create your own summer movie night book club:
A curated book and movie list, divided into four tiers (from all ages to mature audiences)
Book report & movie review templates
Discussion prompts
Literary Analysis Guide
It’s totally free to join. Members get access to a growing library of seasonal printables, helpful resources, and an exclusive coupon code every month.
Check out the Member Exclusive Freebies to sign up and explore the members area!
*Please note that free resources are rotated seasonally. This may not be available all year but you will have access to many more free resources!
A Note to Families
This guide is not a professional rating system, but a thoughtfully curated list based on research and my own personal judgment. Every family is different, so please use your own discretion in choosing what best suits your children’s maturity and your values. Some titles reflect the time periods in which they were written and may include outdated or insensitive perspectives. These moments can be used to spark deeper discussion and invite a broader range of voices into your learning experience.
Enjoy!
Stephanie