Whether you're lounging in the sand with a beach read or nestled on your couch to beat the heat, chances are you probably read for pleasure more in the summer. You have more free time without class readings to bog you down and can easily trade the depths of your school library for a sunny spot outside. Here are some of my favorite books I have read so far this summer alongside some recommendations:
"Where'd You Go, Bernadette" by Maria Semple
You will fall in love with the quirky details that make up this story about a trip to Antarctica gone wrong and wish that you too were a part of the family in this book. The writing is hilarious and the characters are extremely likable. You’re sure to find some of yourself in Bernadette or Bee. It is told through a series of documents such as transcripts and emails. You’ll finish it wanting to plan a trip to Antarctica. The author answers your questions about the book here.
"Bossypants" by Tina Fey
You will literally laugh out loud while reading this book. Enjoy stories from Tina Fey’s time at the University of Virginia struggling to interact with the opposite sex as well as detailed nuggets of information about her rise to fame and her experiences with Saturday Night Live. In a nutshell, it’s general life advice from Tina Fey, and she writes it like you’re her best friend — you would be stupid not to read it.
"All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doer
Not exactly a light summer beach read, but it’s my favorite book on this list. Doer creates two parallel plotlines during World War II that eventually converge in an unpredictable way. You’ll become equally invested in the story of Marie-Laura, a blind girl living in Paris, and Werner, an orphan who is picked to train to be a Nazi because of his intellect. The story is beautifully written and feels like a work of art. You won’t be able to put it down.
"Wild" by Cheryl Strayed
Read the book before you watch the movie. "Wild" is an adventure story about a woman who has strayed from who she is and decides to hike the Pacific Crest Trail solo. Guaranteed to make you want to go on a hike, but consider doing it with some friends instead of going alone. Read the author's interview with Oprah here.
"Dark Places" by Gillian Flynn
The creepiness of this book and the vivid descriptions will make your skin crawl. "Dark Places" follows the story of Libby, the only survivor of a massacre that took her mother and sisters. Be sure to read this one before the movie comes out soon!
"The Boys In The Boat" by Daniel James Brown
"The Boys in the Boat" is the story of a Washington boys’ crew team that goes to the 1963 Olympics in hopes of winning the gold. It’s a story about life during the Great Depression, the value of true girt, and rising above to beat the odds. It could be considered too historical for some, but it is based on a true story and will leave you feeling inspired.
"Yes Please" by Amy Poehler
Similar to "Bossypants," Poehler’s first book will allow you to indulge in some of her deeply personal stories as well as life advice about parenthood and advancing in your career. It’s witty and hilarious while still being genuinely down to earth. This book will help you understand why so many women admire Poehler and will turn you into one of them yourself.
"Guantanamo Diary" by Mohamedou Ould Slahi
Fun fact: This book is actually a classified United States document. It’s told from the first person narrative perspective of Mohamedou Slahi, a prisoner who was been detained at Guantanamo Bay for years without trial. Large portions of the book are censored, leaving some crucial details to your imagination. This book will definitely make you ponder your stance on torture and what constitutes cruel and unusual punishment. Read more about the story here.
