Summer Reading List for SAT/ACT Prep: 10 Great Books to Build Vocabulary and Reading Skills
Summer is a great time to relax, recharge—and read! If you're preparing for the ACT or SAT, picking up a few well-chosen books can make a real difference. Reading strong fiction and nonfiction helps build vocabulary, strengthen reading comprehension, and improve your ability to tackle the challenging passages you’ll see on test day.
You can find most of these books for free at your local library, or use the links below to purchase them online. We’ve also included a recommended grade level to help guide your selections.
At Adams Admissions Consulting, we encourage students to use summer break intentionally. Whether you're an avid reader or just looking to get started, these books will stretch your thinking, expose you to new ideas, and strengthen the exact skills tested on the ACT and SAT.
Why These Books?
The ACT and SAT assess your ability to understand complex texts, draw inferences, analyze arguments, and recognize rhetorical strategies. The books below were selected for their rich language, thematic depth, and alignment with the reading skills tested on both exams.
Classic Literature (For Vocabulary and Comprehension Skills)
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Recommended for: Grades 10–12
A timeless novel filled with advanced vocabulary and subtle wit. The complex social dynamics and nuanced tone make it an excellent primer for ACT/SAT-style reading passages.
Buy on Amazon
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
Recommended for: Grades 9–11
A dystopian classic that introduces students to sophisticated language and layered symbolism while also prompting reflection on censorship, media, and society.
Buy on Amazon
Nonfiction and Argumentative Writing (For Rhetorical Skills and Essay Prep)
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass by Frederick Douglass
Recommended for: Grades 10–12
This powerful firsthand account teaches students how to track an argument, recognize rhetorical devices, and build empathy—skills crucial for both reading and writing sections.
Buy on Amazon
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
Recommended for: Grades 10–12
Blending science, ethics, and biography, this narrative nonfiction book closely resembles the kind of real-world informational texts featured in the SAT and ACT.
Buy on Amazon
How to Be Perfect by Michael Schur
Recommended for: Grades 11–12
An entertaining yet thoughtful exploration of moral philosophy, written by the creator of The Good Place. Schur makes complex ethical concepts accessible and engaging.
Buy on Amazon
Contemporary Fiction (For Narrative Voice, Tone, and Interpretation)
The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead
Recommended for: Grades 11–12
A Pulitzer Prize-winning novel based on a true story. This emotionally powerful read sharpens your ability to interpret narrative voice and explore complex moral themes.
Buy on Amazon
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
Recommended for: Grades 9–11
This modern classic explores race, identity, and family with poetic language and strong emotional depth, helping students learn to identify tone, imagery, and symbolism.
Buy on Amazon
The Sentence by Louise Erdrich
Recommended for: Grades 11–12
A beautifully written novel by a Pulitzer-winning author. This book explores identity, justice, and the power of literature. Ideal for advanced readers looking to challenge themselves.
Buy on Amazon
Accessible and Engaging Nonfiction (For Reading Stamina and Real-World Context)
Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell
Recommended for: Grades 9–11
A popular nonfiction book that blends data, storytelling, and social science. It offers engaging content while helping students build reading stamina and interpret arguments.
Buy on Amazon
I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy (2022)
Recommended for: Grades 11–12 (Mature Content)
A powerful memoir that deals with complex family dynamics, abuse, and identity. Best for mature readers, it offers a compelling narrative voice and a unique writing style.
Buy on Amazon
Final Tips for Students
Choose at least one classic and one contemporary work to build a well-rounded foundation.
Keep a vocabulary list and jot down unfamiliar words as you read.
After finishing a book, write a short reflection summarizing the main idea and how the author conveyed it.
Treat your reading like a workout: challenging books build stamina and resilience.
Looking for a personalized reading plan based on your strengths and test timeline? Schedule a session with one of our expert coaches to map out your summer strategy.
Let’s make this summer a launchpad for stronger scores and better reading skills.