How to encourage students to read books in summer without a mandatory reading list?

As the new school year approaches, many students are hurrying to complete the tasks assigned for the summer. One of the most common assignments is reading books recommended by teachers.

No mandatory list

Unlike in earlier years, Latvian schools have not had an official mandatory reading list for a decade. Instead, students are offered reading suggestions, but the choice and motivation to actually read largely rest with the students and their families.

This approach raises the question of how, without a strict list or a formal requirement, children and teenagers can be encouraged to pick up books during the summer rather than postponing reading until the last days of the holidays before school starts.