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As excited as my son is for the start of summer break, it never takes long for boredom to sneak in. The late mornings and free afternoons sound dreamy at first, but before long, I start hearing that pitiful whine claiming there is nothing to do. I’ve learned the best way to stay ahead of that is to have a plan, and in our house, that plan almost always includes a stack of good books. Reading is something we can turn to when it’s too hot to be outside or when we just need a quiet reset in the middle of a busy week.
Reading plays an important role in our family, both for my son on his own and the time we spend reading aloud together. We keep books within reach all summer long. Some days we read inside in the air conditioning, other days we take a book out under a shady tree, and sometimes we queue up an audiobook while we splash around in the pool. Last summer we focused on Arkansas summer read-alouds written by Arkansas authors. This year, we’re taking it a step further and diving into stories that actually take place right here in Arkansas.
Cotton in My Sack by Lois Lenski
Ages 8+
10-year-old Joanda tells about life as a sharecropping family in eastern Arkansas. The book explores both the challenges and joys of living in rural Arkansas in the mid-20th century and details her life picking cotton.
This book is out of print but may be available in the Arkansas section of your local library or at a used bookstore.
Bad News for Outlaws: The Remarkable Life of Bass Reeves by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson
Ages 8+
This short, nonfiction-style narrative tells us about Bass Reeves, an escaped slave who became a legendary lawman in Arkansas and the surrounding territories. Follow the adventure story about the first African American Deputy US Marshal west of the Mississippi.
The Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine
Ages 9+
Set in Little Rock, Arkansas during desegregation, this story follows a quiet girl named Marlee who struggles to speak up until she befriends a new girl named Liz. When Liz suddenly disappears, Marlee is determined to find out what happened and begins to learn more about the changes happening in her city. Along the way, she finds her courage and discovers what it means to stand up for a friend and do what is right.
Johnny May by Robbie Branscum
Ages 9+
Set in rural Arkansas, this story follows Johnny May as he faces challenges at home and in his community. Johnny learns what it means to take responsibility and find his place in the world. It’s a simple but powerful look at growing up in Arkansas and learning from the people around you.
This book is out of print but may be available in the Arkansas section of your local library or at a used bookstore.
Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls
Ages 10+
This story actually takes place in northeast Oklahoma on Cherokee Land, but I have included it because of its connection to the Ozark Mountains, a region that includes parts of northern Arkansas. The story follows a boy named Billy who works hard to earn enough money to buy two hunting dogs, and together they explore the woods and go on hunting adventures. Along the way, Billy learns about responsibility, determination, and the deep bond between a boy and his dogs. It’s a classic coming-of-age story.
Big Doc’s Girl by Mary Medearis
Ages 10+
This story follows a young girl growing up as the daughter of a well-known doctor in a small, Arkansas town. As she navigates school, friendships, and family life, she begins to see the world around her in new ways, growing in understanding, compassion and independence.
The Incredible True Story of the Making of the Eve of Destruction by Amy Brashear
Ages 10+
This historical fiction novel is set in 1984, Arkansas and follows a teen who has a role in a movie about a nuclear war. The book blends science, mystery and coming-of-age themes as teens uncover secrets tied to a potential modern-day nuclear event.
Summer of My German Soldier by Bette Greene
Ages 10+
Set in Arkansas during World War II, the story follows a lonely girl named Patty, the oldest child in the only Jewish family in town. Surprisingly, Patty befriends a German prisoner of war. The friendship changes both of their lives and helps Patty find her own voice.
Petit Jean: A Wilderness Adventure by William B. Jones Jr.
Ages 10+
Arkansas author William B. Jones Jr. reimagines the legend of Marguerite, a young woman who disguises herself as a cabin boy called “Petit Jean” to accompany her fiancé to the New World.
Sarah Campbell: Tale of a Civil War Orphan – Nancy Dane
Ages 10+
Nancy Dane, an expert in Arkansas Civil War history, tells the story of Sarah Campbell, a young girl orphaned during the Civil War. Set near Fort Smith, Arkansas, Sarah seeks refuge in a Union camp after her parents are murdered by bushwhackers. The story focuses on friendship and resilience during a time of turmoil and heartache.
As of publication, this title is free with Kindle Unlimited.
A Painted House by John Grisham
Ages 13+
Set in the Arkansas Delta during the 1950s, this coming-of-age story follows seven-year-old Luke Chandler as he experiences a summer filled with family, farm work, and secrets that change the way he sees the world.
Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley
Ages 14+
Set in a small Arkansas town, this award-winning novel follows a teen dealing with the disappearance of his brother while also exploring the reappearance of the Ivory-billed woodpecker. Hope and grief are common themes throughout the book.
One of the things I love most about reading is how it allows us to travel to new places and experience different lives without leaving our favorite chair. These books help us learn more about Arkansas, whether it’s another town or another time. I hope these Arkansas stories inspire a summer filled with adventure, imagination and plenty of great conversations.
Looking for more book recommendations?
Summer Read-Alouds for Arkansas Families
John Grisham | The Perfect Summer Read
Beach Chairs and Books: Arkansas Summer Reads for Adults
10 Books to Better Understand the Arkansas Delta
Arkansas History Chapter Books to Read Aloud
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