Here are five must read summer books to add to your summer reading list. Summer is the perfect time to kick back, relax, and dive into a good book. Whether you are lounging by the pool or relaxing at the beach, a good book can be your perfect summer companion. With that in mind, we’ve curated a list of five must read summer books that you won’t want to miss. And as a bonus we have added four books that we can’t wait to open!
5 MUST READ SUMMER BOOKS
This season, dive into stories that transport you to different worlds, tug at your heartstrings, and leave you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page. We have included some of our favorite summer books below:
- “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett. Brit Bennett’s “The Vanishing Half” is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of identity, race, and family. The story follows twin sisters who grow up together in a small, southern Black community. However, they choose to live in very different worlds as adults. This compelling narrative examines the lasting impact of their choices and the bonds of family.
- “Malibu Rising” by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Looking for something a bit lighter? “Malibu Rising” is your book. But be sure to have another book close by, because you will fly through this one. Taylor Jenkins Reid, the bestselling author of “Daisy Jones & The Six,” delivers another captivating read. Set in the glamorous and turbulent world of 1980s Malibu, the novel follows the lives of the famous Riva siblings as they throw an epic end-of-summer party. This book is a perfect beach read filled with drama and emotion.
- “The Lost Summers of Newport” by Beatriz Williams, Lauren Willig, and Karen White. Up next is “The Lost Summers of Newport,” a novel where you are transported to another era. In this historical novel, the authors weave together the lives of three women across different eras, all connected by a grand estate in Newport, Rhode Island. As the story spans over a century, it uncovers secrets, scandals, and the invincible spirit of the women linked to the house. Furthermore, the authors seemlessly capture vivid historical detail and rich character development, blending romance, mystery, and drama.
- “The Women” by Kristin Hannah. This one!!! I listened to this book on audiobook during my morning commute. “The Women” is a gripping and heartfelt novel. The book explores how the Vietnam War profoundly impacted those who fought and those left behind. Moreover, this powerful read delves into themes of courage, resilience, and the often-overlooked contributions of women in times of conflict. The story centers around Frankie McGrath, a young nurse who volunteers to serve in Vietnam. Consequently, Frankie finds her life forever changed by the experiences and traumas of war. Be sure to have some tissues for this one.
- “No One Is Watching” by Alyssa Cole. Alyssa Cole’s “No One Is Watching” is a thrilling and suspenseful novel that combines the tension of a psychological thriller with insightful social commentary. When Sydney Green begins to notice the rapid gentrification of her Brooklyn neighborhood, she and her neighbor Theo start investigating the mysterious disappearances of longtime residents. But wait until you see what they uncover. It is more sinister than they could have imagined. This gripping page-turner will keep you on the edge of your seat all summer.
Extra Credit Summer Reading
Already read some of those and need some more suggestions? Here are 4 more books that we have waiting in the wings. While we haven’t read these yet, based on recommendations these are four on our summer reading list:
- “East Coast Girls” by Kerry Kletter. Kerry Kletter has beautifully crafted a novel about the complexities of friendship, trauma, and healing in “East Coast Girls”. In this novel, readers follow the journey of four lifelong friends as they confront their past and secrets. Along the way, they discover forgiveness and embark on a path of self-discovery. Consequently, this emotionally rich story is perfect for summer reading.
- “Undiplomatic” by Desirée Dyer. Desirée Dyer’s “Undiplomatic” offers an insightful and candid look into the world of diplomacy and international relations. Dyer brings perspective of a trailblazing woman who has broken barriers and shattered stereotypes. Drawing from her extensive experience in the US State Department, Dyer provides a behind-the-scenes look at the complexities and challenges of diplomatic work. “Undiplomatic” is not just a memoir but a call to action for greater diversity and inclusion within the realm of diplomacy.
- “Klara and the Sun” by Kazuo Ishiguro. Nobel Prize-winning author Kazuo Ishiguro returns with “Klara and the Sun,” a beautifully written and deeply moving novel about artificial intelligence and what it means to be human. In this novel, Ishiguro tells the story from the perspective of Klara, an Artificial Friend with exceptional observational qualities. As Klara waits in a store to be chosen by a customer, readers are drawn into her unique perspective and experiences. Ultimately, this thought-provoking book is a must-read for fans of speculative fiction and literary fiction alike.
- “Lies and Weddings” by Kevin Kwan. “Lies and Weddings” by Kevin Kwan is a scintillating and glamorous novel that delves into the opulent world of high society and extravagant weddings. When socialite Lydia Yang’s meticulously planned wedding takes a scandalous turn, secrets and lies unravel, threatening to disrupt the lives of everyone involved. Known for his witty storytelling and richly detailed settings, Kwan delivers a captivating tale of love, deception, and the lengths people go to protect their reputations. This novel is a perfect summer read, offering a delightful escape into a world of luxury and intrigue.
“One benefit of summer was that each day we had more light to read by”
Jeannette Walls, The Glass Castle
Happy reading! Let us know in the comments which book you’re most excited to start and share your own summer reading recommendations! And check out our Summer Reading Bingo for Moms – see how many bingos you can get this summer!