Whether it's the first week or summer break or the last, a good book will make your summer better.
Amy & Roger's Epic Detour
This book is an easy, contemporary romance that should definitely be read during the summer. It follows Amy and her road trip with Roger (her neighbor) from California to Connecticut. This novel is fun, cute, but also sad. It's a great romantic read to pass the time. The book also includes scrapbooks and playlists to accompany the story.
The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender
This novel is definitely sadder and more somber. It's a magical realism novel, following a generation of the family. The protagonist is Ava, who is born with wings. It follows the life and struggles that has accompanied her and her family. Definitely worth a read for someone who enjoys coming-of-age novels mixed with romance.
The Hate U Give
This is a poignant novel about race relations in America, specifically police brutality. It follows Starr, a girl who balances her two lives: the poor neighborhood she lives in and the preppy suburban school she goes to. Her life is changed when she witnesses the shooting of her childhood friend at the hands of a police officer. This novel is significant as it tackles a sensitive yet relevant issue in contemporary American society. This book is also being made into a movie starring Amandla Stenberg, set to premiere October 19.
Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda
This novel is a coming-of-age story about Simon Spier, a closeted gay teen. When an email is read revealing his sexuality, he finds himself blackmailed by his classmate Martin. He is forced to confront his own sexuality and his growing feelings for a mysterious figure by the name of Blu. This is a great book as it tackles LGBTQ+ issues. The book was also recently adapted into a movie, Love, Simon, starring Nick Robinson and Katherine Langford (13 Reasons Why).
To All the Boys I've Loved Before
When sixteen-year-old Lara Jean's private love letters are released and sent to her former crushes, she is forced to face the consequences. One guy who is sent the letters is Peter Kavinsky, the most popular boy at her school. This novel is a cute, fast read that explores young love and family dynamics. While simple, it is definitely touching and relatable. This book has also been adapted into a Netflix Original Movie.
It Ends With Us
This New Adult novel by Colleen Hoover is definitely more serious and heart-breaking. It follows Lily post-grad and her encounter with neurosurgeon Ryle. Ryle seems to be the perfect man, rich, kind, and loving. Everything changes when things start to go south and her high school love pops up out of nowhere. This novel is somber and thought-provoking, raising questions about relationships and love. Because it is New Adult, this book contains mature themes that might not be suitable for readers younger than 17.
Eleanor & Park
This is a heartwarming coming-of-age story following outcast Eleanor and her budding friendship with Park. Over the course of one school year, the two learn more about each other and face the challenges of young love. Rainbow Rowell writes a fantastic, yet sad, story about two star-crossed lovers faced with countless obstacles, both societal and familial.
I'll Give You the Sun
This is yet another coming-of-age story following twins Jude and Noah. As children, Jude and Noah are inseparable, sharing everything. Years later, they stop talking, communicating rarely. When Jude meets an attractive boy and mysterious tutor, it sets actions into motion that can't be undone. This novel is poignant as it explores the ideas of family, redemption, and love - that love can manifest itself in strange ways.
Still Alice
This book is about Alice, a 50-year-old woman battling early onset Alzheimer's disease. Alice is a happily married wife and celebrates professor at Harvard. As her memory starts to fail her, she realizes the devastating truth: she is suffering from Alzheimer's disease. This novel is a heartbreaking story that depicts the horrific reality of Alzheimer's and its effects. This book was also adapted into a film, starring Julianne Moore.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Often hailed as this generation's "The Catcher in the Rye," Stephen Chbosky's novel explores the pains and challenges of adolescence. The story follows Charlie, a "wallflower," as he navigates high school and teenage angst. With his new friends and family, he learns more about himself than he ever has before. Maybe more than he wanted. This book was adapted into a film starring Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, and Ezra Miller.
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