Students entering grades K–8 will have a special opportunity this summer to turn reading into adventure through Second Lady Usha Vance’s summer reading challenge. The program invites eligible students to read 12 books of their choice between June 1 and September 4, giving families a simple and meaningful way to keep children reading during the summer months.

The challenge is designed to encourage students to explore stories, discover new ideas, and build strong reading habits while school is out. Rather than assigning one specific reading list, the program allows students to choose their own books. That means children can read stories that match their interests, whether they enjoy adventure, history, mystery, biography, science, fantasy, or other favorite topics.

To participate, students will track their reading on the official reading log. Once they have completed 12 books, parents can submit the finished log online. Students who complete the challenge will receive a digital certificate, a personalized letter, and an America-250th themed bookmark.

In addition to those prizes, students who finish the reading log will also be eligible for a chance to visit Washington, D.C., on a special trip in late September. For many students, that possible trip adds an exciting goal to the summer reading challenge. It connects the simple act of opening a book with the larger adventure of learning, exploring, and experiencing something memorable.

Throughout the summer, families will also be able to follow an online leaderboard showing which states are currently ahead in the challenge. This gives students a chance to see how their reading contributes to a larger effort across the country. The leaderboard adds a friendly sense of competition while still keeping the main focus on reading and participation.

Vance has highlighted literacy during her time as second lady. This is the second year she has led the summer reading challenge, continuing her effort to encourage children and families to make books part of their summer routine. She has also started Storytime with the Second Lady, a podcast where special guests join her to read storybooks.

“Every book you open is an adventure—whether you are exploring new places, meeting new characters, or learning something new,” said Vance.

That idea is at the heart of the challenge. A book can take a student somewhere new without ever leaving home. It can introduce a child to a different time period, a new place, an inspiring person, or a character who learns courage, kindness, perseverance, or curiosity along the way. For younger readers, the challenge can help strengthen confidence. For older elementary and middle school students, it can encourage independence and help them build a steady reading rhythm over the summer.

The summer months can easily fill up with travel, activities, screen time, and changing schedules. A reading challenge gives families a simple goal that can fit into ordinary days. Students might read in the car, at the library, outside on a blanket, before bed, or during a quiet afternoon at home. Because students can choose their own books, the challenge can work for many different reading levels and interests.

Parents can also use the challenge as a way to encourage regular reading without making it feel like another school assignment. Reading 12 books across the summer gives students a clear goal, but it also leaves room for choice, enjoyment, and discovery. The focus is not just on finishing a list, but on helping students see books as doors to adventure.

The summer reading challenge will officially launch on June 1. Students and parents can can click here learn more, download the reading log, and find details about submitting completed logs online.

For students entering grades K–8, this summer’s challenge offers more than a certificate or bookmark. It is an invitation to read widely, dream boldly, and see where a good book can take them.