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 15th. 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!