Must-Read Books for Kids this Summer: Fun, Learning, and No Screens Needed!

As summer vacation approaches, many parents begin the yearly search for ways to engage their children meaningfully—without relying on mobiles, tablets, or expensive gadgets. If you’ve been googling “how to keep kids away from the screen during holidays” or “books to entertain kids in summer”, you’re not alone. In today’s digital world, finding the right alternatives that stimulate creativity, curiosity, and focus is a challenge. One solution lies in the simple, magical world of books—especially those written by Indian authors who understand the culture, context, and imagination of Indian children. Below is a handpicked list of Indian books that can turn summer vacation into a season of laughter, learning, and adventure—all while staying away from screens.

1. The Magic of the Lost Temple by Sudha Murty

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If you’re wondering how to keep your child engaged during the summer holidays without screens, Sudha Murty’s “The Magic of the Lost Temple” is a meaningful pick. Written in simple yet captivating language, this book follows Nooni, a curious city girl who spends her vacation in a quiet Karnataka village with her grandparents. From learning how to ride a bicycle to discover a mysterious ancient stepwell, Nooni’s summer unfolds in the most unexpected ways. Sudha Murty, known for drawing from real Indian settings and values, crafts this story to spark imagination and interest in history and culture. Children aged 8–12 can experience a sense of adventure, independence, and rural life—all without leaving their reading nook. It’s more than a story; it’s an invitation to explore tradition, friendships, and outdoor fun. A great option for families asking what books to give kids to reduce screen time this summer.

2. The Blue Umbrella by Ruskin Bond

Looking for a screen-free way to help your child build empathy and awareness? “The Blue Umbrella” by Ruskin Bond is a gentle yet powerful tale that does just that. Set in the serene hills of Himachal, it follows Binya, a young girl who trades her lucky charm for a bright blue umbrella that soon becomes the talk of her small village. Bond’s storytelling is rooted in simplicity and emotion, encouraging young readers to reflect on kindness, jealousy, and forgiveness. This book is especially engaging for children aged 8 and above who enjoy village life tales and realistic characters. Ruskin Bond’s writing nurtures imagination without overstimulating young minds. If you're searching online for summer reading books for kids to build values and reduce mobile dependency, this one’s a delightful choice.

3. Grandma’s Bag of Stories by Sudha Murty

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If your child misses grandma's warm stories or you're trying to introduce Indian culture without turning to cartoons, “Grandma’s Bag of Stories” by Sudha Murty is an excellent way to bridge generations. Inspired by tales the author heard in her childhood village of Shiggaon, the book brings together a host of quirky, fun, and thought-provoking tales. From talking animals to clever queens and mysterious onions, every story opens a new world. Recommended for kids aged 7 and above, these stories also highlight Indian values, cleverness, and humour. Ideal for parents looking for books for kids to read independently during summer vacation, this collection helps children enjoy meaningful leisure time, away from screens and into the world of oral storytelling.

4. The Temple Bell Mystery by Nalini Varanasi

If you're thinking about how to keep older kids mentally engaged during summer, “The Temple Bell Mystery” by Nalini Varanasi offers a dose of mystery with a cultural twist. It features siblings Meera and Arjun as they unravel the curious case of a missing temple bell in their village. As they navigate through ancient shrines and lively Indian bazaars, children get to explore themes of community, teamwork, and heritage. This light mystery encourages observation, deduction, and exploration—making it a smart pick for readers aged 7 to 15 who enjoy puzzles without the usual tech-driven distractions. It's also a gentle introduction to India’s temple traditions, perfect for kids who love a good chase mixed with cultural learning.

5. Moin and the Monster by Anushka Ravishankar

If your child has a vivid imagination and you’re looking for funny books to keep kids away from screens during the holidays, “Moin and the Monster” is a brilliant choice. Written by Anushka Ravishankar, this book tells the hilarious story of Moin, a young boy who discovers a singing monster in his cupboard. The story gets wackier with every page, yet stays rooted in the everyday experiences of Indian childhood. Known for her quirky and rhythmic writing, Anushka creates a story that’s laugh-out-loud funny while subtly addressing themes like fear and friendship. It’s a great read for ages 8–12, especially for reluctant readers or those with a flair for the dramatic.

6. The Rabbit in the Moon by Meena Arora Nayak

If you're looking to instill moral values and storytelling traditions without digital devices, this vibrant retelling of Panchatantra fables is a thoughtful pick. “The Rabbit in the Moon” by Meena Arora Nayak includes two animal-based stories from India’s ancient wisdom literature. The easy-to-read prose and colourful illustrations make it perfect for readers aged 8 to 12. With themes like teamwork, cleverness, and kindness, it subtly teaches life lessons while keeping children engaged in imaginative storytelling. This book serves as a wonderful entry point to classical Indian folklore for kids who are just beginning their reading journey.

7. Chola Adventure (Girls of India) by Anu Kumar

For parents wondering how to add history to their child's reading list without boredom, “Chola Adventure” by Anu Kumar is a historical fiction that brings 990 CE alive. It tells the story of Raji, a bold young girl who searches for her missing father and uncovers a royal mystery in ancient Tanjore. With references to classical Indian dance, sculpture, and architecture, it offers a learning-rich reading experience wrapped in suspense and adventure. Designed for readers aged 10 and above, the book introduces children to the Chola dynasty through an accessible, narrative-driven lens. A good pick for kids who enjoy solving mysteries and learning about Indian heritage beyond textbooks.

8. Off Course, Butterfingers by Khyrunnisa A

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If your child enjoys laughter and you’re seeking funny books to help kids unplug during summer vacation, this collection by Khyrunnisa A might do the trick. “Off Course, Butterfingers” follows Amar Kishen, a schoolboy whose clumsy antics bring chaos, chuckles, and comic mishaps. The short story format makes it easy for kids aged 9 and up to pick up and read without pressure. Author Khyrunnisa’s humour mirrors the everyday messiness of growing up, while keeping things light-hearted and relatable. This book keeps children reading for fun and not just for marks—making it a valuable addition to summer reading lists.

9. The Mystery of the Missing Cat by Ravi Subramanian

Ravi Subramanian’s foray into children’s writing brings mystery, logic, and playful storytelling into one entertaining bundle. “The Mystery of the Missing Cat” is a simple detective-style story where a bunch of kids attempt to track down a neighbourhood cat. It’s easy to read, fast-paced, and introduces young readers to problem-solving without the help of Google or gadgets. Suitable for kids aged 9 and up, this book helps build attention span and curiosity—qualities parents often look for when trying to keep kids mentally active during summer breaks. A great fit for budding detectives who enjoy piecing clues together.

10. Malgudi Days by R.K. Narayan

If you’re trying to introduce your child to timeless Indian storytelling this summer, “Malgudi Days” by R.K. Narayan offers a beautiful blend of humour, life lessons, and nostalgia. This collection of short stories set in the fictional South Indian town of Malgudi includes memorable characters like Swami and his friends. Each story is rich in everyday detail and human emotion—just enough to keep kids entertained while subtly teaching values. Narayan’s writing is conversational and accessible, making it great for readers aged 10 and up. It’s an excellent way to encourage screen-free afternoons filled with reading, imagination, and reflection.