Summer Reading

This summer, I plan to read more than ever. I need a beach chair, a book, and some sand to cover my toes. Every June I look forward to choosing books to read. It has become a tradition for me to share my list with friends. It’s challenging to create a diverse list that appeals to many different book tastes. My list is a collection of books I have read throughout the year or plan to read this summer. The list includes fiction and nonfiction recommended by me or readers I admire for their great taste in books. I stalk recommened lists from many sources and of course, I always check out what my favorite author Ann Hood is reading this summer.  I hope you will find at least one gem of a book off this list that you want to read. Most importantly, I wish you time to read anything that brings you joy this summer.

Cheers to Summer!

Cherylann aka “The Library Lady”

Fiction:   

All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

This is the book that appears on many summer reading lists. The Amazon book of the Month for May 2014, this book is set in mostly Germany and   France. Many say it is the best book you will read this year!

Goodnight June by Sarah Jio

Looking to read something light? This book reminds me of the 90s movie You’ve Got Mail. It has romance, an old independent bookstore and yes, even the great green room from Goodnight Moon. I just loved this quick read.

The Storied Life of A.J. Eikry by Gabrielle Zevin

Yes, another book about a bookstore. I couldn’t resist. This is the quirky book that everyone loves. Who doesn’t want to read about second chances at love?

The Book of Unknown Americans by Christina Henriquez

My good friend Christine Griffin recommends a well-written book each summer and this is her pick. I am rushing to finish this list so I can go back to reading this gem!

The Girl You Left Behind by JoJo Meyes

I am obsessed with JoJo Meyes. Her books are great for packing in your beach bag. JoJo Meyes has a new book (One plus One) being released in mid-July as well.

The Vacationers by Emma Shraub

If you can’t catch a flight to Spain, read this book instead. This is definitely a beach read!

I am Having so Much Fun without You by Courtney Maum

This book is being called a “frothy” novel! I am planning to apply lots of sunscreen when I read this! I know I won’t want to stop reading this book that has everything including a cheating spouse.

The Death of Bees by Lisa O’Donnell

Author Ann Hood is packing this delightful book in her beach bag this summer. This is a tale of lost souls told in alternating voices.

The Rise and Fall of Great Powers by Tom Rachman

Publisher’s Weekly calls this book a “suspenseful novel that whisks readers around the world!”

Nonfiction:

Glitter and Glue by Kelly Corrigan

I recommended this memoir to my good friend and colleague Terrie Kovolyan. She loved it enough to write to Kelly Corrigan. Definitely a perfect book to bring to the beach.

The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown

This is my friend Valerie Connor’s favorite book of the year. She calls it a great story with an amazing accomplishment. Great audio book to listen to with a perfect narrator.

The Mockingbird Next Door: Life with Harper Lee by Marja Mills

This book is due to be released July 15^th. The author gives readers a chance to know one of the greatest writers of our time.

Wave by Sonali Deraniyagala

This book has won too many awards to list here. I treasured reading this powerful memoir written in an honest manner. The author shares her story of being swept away with her entire family in a Tsunami. She is the only survivor and must pick up the pieces after losing her children, husband and parents. Cancel your plans, you will never want to stop reading this book.

Now I See You by Nicole Kear

I am planning to read this memoir about a woman who is told she will lose her eyesight within ten years. It is said to be a sassy story that will change how you view the world. Caution: This book contains more than a few words that begin with “F.” I guess it is appropriate coming from someone going blind.

Enjoy your summer of reading!