This summer, just like last, I curated a list of ten books I wanted to read. All of them are fiction, a mix of contemporary, dystopian, and lovely character driven stories, or so I was promised by the reviews as I made this selection.
I’ve also included a handful of children’s books, geared towards kids ages 4 to 7, in case you’re planning to take a few summer roadtrips, and prefer screen-free entertainment.
TEN SUMMER BOOK PICKS
- These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant — A quiet, gripping story set deep in the forest about survival, fatherhood, and secrets.
- The Light Pirate by Lily Brooks-Dalton — A haunting and beautifully written speculative novel about climate collapse and adaptation, both inner and outer.
- The Grace Year by Kim Liggett — Think The Handmaid’s Tale meets Lord of the Flies, but for teens. Fast-paced and a little chilling.
- Ask for Andrea by Noelle W. Ihli — A bingeable, twisty thriller with multiple POVs and a satisfying pace.
- The Wedding People by Alison Espach — Upcoming or newly released, this one has that literary summer feel with a hint of romantic tension and family drama.
- The Drowning Woman by Robyn Harding — A psychological thriller with themes of friendship, betrayal, and what happens when women snap.
- The Quiet Tenant by — A chilling but elegant crime novel told from the perspective of a woman being held captive.
- Long Bright River by Liz Moore — A literary mystery exploring the opioid crisis, sisterhood, and memory, set in Philadelphia.
- A Darker Shade of Magic by V.E. Schwab — A total palate cleanser: fantasy with parallel Londons, magic coats, and high-stakes adventure.
- Don’t Forget to Write by Sara Goodman Confino — A charming coming-of-age summer read, with humor and heart.
FOUR PICKS FOR CHILDREN
- The Wild Robot by Peter Brown
- The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo — A porcelain rabbit loses everything and finds his way home again. Emotional, magical, unforgettable.
- Pax by Sara Pennypacker — A tender, moving story about a boy and his fox. Perfect for slightly older listeners or family read-alouds.
- Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White — An old classic worth returning to. My kids were captivated by it in a new way this year — especially the themes of friendship and change.
After Labor Day, I plan on having a big book review episode giving my raw and honest thoughts on these books. Happy Reading, and enjoy a sun-soaked summer. Stay cool!