Summer Reading: Elizabeth Enright
Our childhood reading shapes our perspective, piques our curiosity, and lays the foundation for a lifetime of imagination and empathy. Few authors capture the beauty of the stories and characters that stick with us for a lifetime as gracefully as Elizabeth Enright. Filled with warmth, wit, and a deep understanding of children’s inner lives, her classic stories remain timeless treasures for readers young and old. Check out this Homeschool Living to explore the works of Elizabeth Enright, whether you’re rediscovering forgotten gems or meeting new characters for the first time—perfect for your summer reading list.
Excellent Summer Reading Novelist
Born in 1907 in Oak Park, Illinois, Elizabeth Enright was immersed in a creative environment from an early age. Her mother, Maginel Wright Enright, was an accomplished magazine illustrator and her uncle was renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Enright initially pursued illustration, studying at the Art Students League of New York and in Paris, but eventually found her true calling in writing.
Much of Enright’s inspiration for the setting of her debut novel, Thimble Summer, comes from the summers she spent at her uncle’s Wisconsin estate, Taliesin. The story follows a young girl living on a Wisconsin farm during the 1930s. The novel beautifully portrays the simplicity and challenges of rural life, emphasizing themes of family and perseverance, and earned Enright the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1939. It’s a standout title to include in any summer reading plan—especially for fans of historical fiction and classic childhood reading. Check out these in-depth discussion questions and creative response prompts in the Learning Corner.
Summer Reading Series
Another beloved series by Elizabeth Enright is the Melendy Quartet, beginning with The Saturdays (my personal favorite!) published in 1941. This series follows the adventures of the Melendy siblings—Mona, Rush, Randy, and Oliver—as they explore their world with creativity and independence. The family’s escapades, from organizing Saturday outings to uncovering mysteries, resonate with readers of all ages for their authenticity and charm. For many, this series is an unforgettable part of childhood reading, and an ideal choice for joyful summer reading. This heartfelt blog post from Lift Up Your Hearts highlights the enduring appeal of the Melendy family’s adventures.
Enright’s Gone-Away Lake and its sequel Return to Gone-Away transport readers to a forgotten lakeside community, where cousins Portia and Julian discover abandoned houses and befriend the elderly residents who once lived there. These novels explore themes of friendship, history, and the passage of time, inviting readers to ponder the stories that old places hold. Check out these and other works to add to your summer reading plan in this thoughtful overview of Elizabeth Enright’s most enduring stories.
E. Enright’s Style & Legacy
Enright’s signature writing style is filled with lyrical prose and vivid descriptions, allowing her to capture the nuances of childhood experiences. Her characters are relatable and endearing, navigating the complexities of growing up with humor and grace. This sampling of quotes offers a sneak peek into the world she created in her classic stories—or a nostalgic trip through the pages of your own childhood reading.
Beyond her novels, Elizabeth Enright contributed to children’s literature as a reviewer for The New York Times Book Review and taught creative writing at Barnard College. She passed away in 1968, leaving behind a legacy of timeless stories that continue to enchant and inspire readers. Take some time this summer to explore the wonders of everyday life through the eyes of imaginative and resilient young characters. Her stories encourage exploration, celebrate family, and remind us of the enduring beauty found in the world around us—perfect for inspired summer reading adventures.
Megan Mora Fuentes
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