It’s summertime, and what better way to pass the day than with a good book?

College kids seem to have lost that love for books we all had in our middle school days.

I can remember checking out five books at a time at the school library. But I might be an extreme example.   However, while you’re lying out and getting some sun, you might as well read a good story. Here are some of my personal recommendations.     

The Fault in our Stars - by John Green. As most people know by now, it’s about two cancer survivors and their journey to fall in love.  But it’s so much more. It asks the kind of thought provoking questions that we all have in the back of our mind, but we never contemplate.  And to answer your question- YES you do still need to read it even if you have seen the movie.      

The Divergent Trilogy by Veronica Roth - This is another example of a book you must read even if you are infatuated with the movie. As someone who has read all three books and seen the first movie, I can say with complete honesty- I loved both. Most readers will complain about their favorite film-adapted stories, but I have nothing but praise for both. But reading the book will give you a greater appreciation, not to mention more information, about this intriguing, action-packed and dystopian world. (Plus you’ll be in the loop for the next two movies.)      

Bossypants - by Tina Fey. An oldie but goodie, this is one of my favorite books of all time. It’s an easy and hilarious read plus I don’t know one person who doesn’t absolutely love Tina Fey. She’s everyone’s favorite funny girl. Bossypants is one part memoir, part advice work of art. So instead of picking a romantic comedy, pick a book that will actually make you laugh out loud.

Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) by Mindy Kaling. Often compared and contrasted to Bossypants, this novel by Mindy Kaling is genius all on its own. Kaling recalls everything from being called a “chubster” in middle school to landing her job as a writer on The Office. It’s incredibly relatable and hilarious to boot.