Dear Students
Happy summer! You have earned the opportunity to relax, recharge, and enjoy a well-deserved break. We hope you find time this summer to do things that bring you joy, help you unwind, and allow you to step away from the busy pace of the school year.
One of the best ways to relax and recharge is through reading. Whether you're stretched out on the beach, traveling with family, sitting by the pool, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, a great book can take you anywhere. Reading for pleasure not only entertains and inspires, but it also helps keep your mind active and engaged.
Research consistently shows that students who continue reading over the summer return to school better prepared for success, while those who do not may experience the "summer slide," a decline in reading stamina, vocabulary, and comprehension skills. That's why we invite all Weston High School students to Strive for 5: Beat the Summer Slide! Challenge yourself to read at least five books this summer. Whether you enjoy realistic fiction, fantasy, mystery, romance, nonfiction, graphic novels, memoirs, or poetry, there is something for every reader.
To help you get started, we have included recommended titles from the 2027 Connecticut Nutmeg Award Nominees, CT Reads: The Governor's Summer Reading Challenge, and recommendations from Weston High School staff. These lists feature engaging, thought-provoking books selected by educators, librarians, and readers from across Connecticut.
Looking for your next great read? Talk with friends and family about books they have loved. Explore reviews on Goodreads, browse recommendations on BookTok, or try The New York Times interactive book recommendation tools and bestseller lists. You may discover a new favorite author or genre along the way.
Looking for an extra challenge? Students ages 13–19 are encouraged to participate in the New York Times Learning Network Summer Reading Contest. Throughout the summer, students can submit short written or video responses about something they have read, watched, or listened to and explain why it captured their attention. It is an authentic opportunity to share your voice with a broader audience, practice reflective writing, and engage with ideas beyond the classroom.
The Weston Public Library also offers a summer reading program open to all students. Be sure to check out the library's resources, events, and recommendations throughout the summer.
Most importantly, enjoy the journey. Explore new genres, revisit favorite authors, discover stories that inspire you, and challenge yourself to read widely. Set a goal, track your progress, and remember that every page counts.
Strive for 5. Beat the Summer Slide. Discover Your Next Great Book.
Happy Reading!