10 books to read this Summer
June 4, 2020
While 2020 has been an obvious rollercoaster, things are starting to slow down in terms of school, and heat up in terms of weather. With even more free time comes the inevitable; boredom. Some of these novels I have read, some I simply want to read. Here are 10 books to keep you engaged and excited this summer.
- For the poetry lover… The Essential Rumi, translated by Coleman Banks
Rumi’s work is full of messages about religion, love, death, loss, and joy. Rumi’s poetry comes in many forms, with poems lasting three lines or five pages, depending on the topic. His poems are thought-provoking and insightful.
- For the vacationer.. Beautiful Ruins, Jess Walter
Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter is one book I am excited to read this summer. The novel is set in Italy on the coast circa 1962. The story is about a young innkeeper. Author Jess Walter is known for his wit and charm, so I’ll be sure to read this book whenever I want a laugh or a little vacation from the world.
- For everyone… The Hate U Give, Angie Thomas
The Hate U Give is a modern story of police brutality in America, and how it affects people’s lives. Main character Star witnesses the racially-biased murder of her best friend at the hands of a police officer, and makes it her goal to speak out about it to make others understand. The novel is heartbreaking, and eye-opening. This story is important.
- For the history lover… The Devil in the White City, Erik Larson
The Devil in the Whiet City tells the true stories of the making of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and the serial killer H.H. Holmes who lured victims into his hotel. The book intertwines murder, history, excitement and madness. It is a page turner.
- For the businessperson… The Culture Code, Clotaire Rapaille
The Culture Code is a discussion of human nature and marketing in the world around us. Author Rapaille is not only a marketing expert but has used his techniques to advertise famous American brands, such as Folgers and AT&T. I am someone who is not enormously interested in business, but this book was engaging and informative.
- For the romantic… Modern Lovers, Emma Straub
Emma Straub is one of my favorite authors, for the sole reason that she creates stories that are light, balanced, and interesting all at the same time. Modern Lovers is the tale of two best friends living in the same Brooklyn neighborhood after a lifelong friendship. When their children start getting romantically involved, however, everything becomes complicated. The story is funny and satisfying, perfect for a quick summer read.
- For the mysterious… The Monogram Murders, Agatha Christie & Sophie Hannah
Like most people who like to read, I love a good mystery. There are few comparable to Agatha Christie in terms of her wit and mystery. Author Sophie Hannah takes Christie’s characters and essence in The Monogram Murders,making the story as suspenseful as ever.
- For the fantasy reader… The Night Circus, Erin Morgenstern
The Night Circus is yet another exciting novel I can’t wait to read this summer. The story focuses on a rivalry-turned-love between two magicians, each competing for an unknown reason and an unseen prize. The story takes place in the glorious Cirque de Reves (Circus of Dreams) that only appears at night. Fantastical and full of magic.
- For the busy reader… The Penelopiad, Margaret Atwood
For those who will not have too much time to spare this summer, Margaret Atwood’s The Penelopiad is a perfect read. The story is a side-perspective of Penelope, wife of Odysseus, from Homer’s famous The Odyssey, Atwood ties in poetry and alternative perspectives that prompt us to question the initial heroic nature of our unquestioned heroes. The novel is just over a hundred pages, quick but fascinating.
- For the transcendentalist… The Five People you Meet in Heaven, Mitch Albom
83 year-old Eddie is an old war-veteran hardened by his experiences and dull routine. He finds himself no longer experiencing the joy and excitement he felt in his youth. When Eddie suddenly dies trying to save a young girl from an amusement park ride, he finds himself in heaven, where he meets five people, each explaining Eddie’s time on earth. Touching and sweet, I cannot wait to read this book this summer.
