Sibling Summer Reading List
What is better than a summer day with no plans and time to curl up with a book? This summer, we’ve put together a special book list for readers of all ages, featuring stories about siblings from lighthearted conflicts to deep lifelong bonds, including stories about disability, differences, and unconditional love.
Younger Readers
Cranky Right Now
By Julie Berry
This fun and relatable picture book introduces a girl who’s having one of those “cranky” days—and her mood is definitely rubbing off on her sibling. If your little ones have ever had a moment like that (or two), they’ll see themselves in this story.
Words and Your Heart
By Kate Jane Neal
This gentle, powerful book reminds young readers how important words are—especially in those heated sibling moments. A perfect read for helping children understand the impact of what they say.
Bucket Filling from A to Z
By Carol McCloud and Caryn Butzke
A positive and interactive read that helps kids understand kindness, empathy, and how our words and actions can “fill” or “dip” into others’ buckets—sibling relationships included.
Tag! You’re It
By Janessy DeLeon
This inspiring story highlights how a child with a disability finds confidence and celebrates differences while building connection and awareness in their community.
Just Because
By Matthew McConaughey
Filled with poetic contrasts and quirky illustrations, this picture book explores life’s contradictions—perfect for conversations between siblings navigating feelings, change, and growing up.
Teen to Adulthood
Riding the Bus with My Sister
By Rachel Simon
In this heartfelt memoir, Rachel spends a year riding city buses with her sister Beth, who has an intellectual disability. Through their journey, we see a portrait of sisterhood, independence, and community.
The Story of a Beautiful Girl
By Rachel Simon
A moving novel about love, disability, and resilience. Set in 1968, it tells the story of Lynnie, a young woman with a developmental disability, and Homan, a deaf African American man, as they escape an institution—and find hope through unexpected allies.
Being the Other One: Growing Up with a Brother or Sister Who Has Special Needs
By Kate Strohm
Written for siblings of children with disabilities, this honest and supportive book offers tools for understanding and expressing emotions. Full of real stories, reflection exercises, and practical strategies for growth and healing.
Thicker Than Water: Essays by Adult Siblings of People with Disabilities
Edited by Don Meyer
In this powerful collection, 39 adult siblings share raw, insightful stories of what it’s like growing up with a brother or sister with disabilities. Each essay offers a unique perspective—sometimes heartwarming, sometimes hard—but always real.
Boy Alone: A Brother’s Memoir
By Karl Taro Greenfeld
A deeply personal memoir of growing up with an autistic sibling. Greenfeld shares the beauty and heartbreak of being the “typical” brother, exploring family dynamics, expectations, and brotherly love.
