Best Books for Summer

No matter where you’re hanging out this summer, New York Subway or to the beach. It’s time to kick off your summer reading list if you haven’t done so already. I mean, better late than never is what I say. Especially since I am one of the ones who has started later than most. Recently, I decided to kick off a book challenge to read 100 books before the end of the year. I’m on my way but haven’t really made a dent.

I’m excited to share that I started a book club. the LivingLesh Book Club – an intimate group that will dive into this challenge and read books that are diverse, captivating, and everything you want them to be (if you’re interested in joining come along to the Facebook group). From putting the summer reads lists together, I’m sharing some of the books that I’m looking forward to reading. As well as the ones that I have already read that I’m suggesting to the group for you book lovers.

Best Books for Summer

WHITE FRAGILITY

This book has a lot of mixed reviews, but there is no doubt that this book adds to the conversation. For those looking for resources on how to be an ally, here’s one that shares how just being a non-racist is not enough. That there are more steps to be taken to be an ally versus just knowing that racism is bad and being a shoulder to lean on.

MEXICAN GOTHIC

This novel has the essence of Gothicism and the power of a strong female protagonist. This novel has made it onto my summer reading list and onto the book challenge list that I am doing with my LivingLesh Book Club. From the secrets to the seduction, there’s so much allure that is going to be found in these pages and I’m super excited to read it.

AFTER SERIES

I will admit that I wouldn’t have known anything about this book if it wasn’t for Netflix. I stumbled across the movie adaptation one day and got sucked into it. So much that I watched it about three times amidst reading the books. If you’re one that loves fanfiction or if you were a fan of the Fifty Shades novels then you’ll like this series. It shows love but not in the fairytale, happily falling in love aspect. It shows brokenness and imperfection which is what I think makes it so real and captivating.

I loved and hated the relationship between the two leading characters. I will tell you that the movie isn’t the same as the books. So even if you watch the movie, you need to read the books…all of them. Because you won’t be able to stop. This is one of my favorite beach reads. I give this rating a 5 out of 5. I can say after a quick view you’ll be just as sucked into it as me.

DEAR MARTIN

Every once and a while, I’ll grab books for family members – even the ones who don’t like to read because I’m pushy. And for the past eight or so years, I have loved getting books for my niece at the bookshop. She’s not much of a reader, but I like to get her books that she won’t see taught in school. Books that will resonate with her as a middle schooler while also teaching her about different perspectives. This novel is one that I believe all young readers and even adults read. Since it shares the story of the main character, Justyce, as he navigates the world that still judges him for the color of his skin. I rate this book a 5 out of 5 stars too.

A YELLOW RAFT IN BLUE WATER

I had read this book in college and was so captivated by it that when it was time to talk about it in class, I basically took over the entire lecture. The published multi-perspective novel tells the story of three Native American women from different points in time. Entertwined by familial bonds, they learn about each other even through moments of misunderstanding and broken trust. Each chapter bared new secrets and left me wanting to keep reading so that I could understand these women even more. I felt as if I was a part of the story, listening to them and learning about them and from them.

ON THE COME UP

First, if you haven’t read The Hate U Give, then you need to start there. Angie Thomas’s writing is truthful, real, and teaches you in a way that doesn’t make you feel like you’re being taught but you’re understanding new experiences. This is her second novel and tells the story of a girl who wants to become the greatest rapper of all time. But just like many things, her words are misconstrued and she finds herself the middle of a controversy with hard decisions that she must make.

WHY summer reading

Summer reading has always been one of my favorite pastimes. There’s something magical about curling up with a good book on a sunny day, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin and the pages of the book between my fingers. But aside from being a fun and enjoyable activity, there are many benefits to summer reading that make it a worthwhile pursuit.

First and foremost, summer reading is an excellent way to escape from the stresses of everyday life. Whether you’re sitting on a beach or lounging in your backyard, a good book can transport you to another world and help you forget about your worries for a little while. This kind of mental escape is crucial for maintaining good mental health, especially during times of stress or uncertainty.

In addition to providing a mental escape, summer reading can also help to expand your knowledge and understanding of the world. Reading books on a variety of subjects, whether it’s history, science, or literature, can help to broaden your horizons and expose you to new ideas and perspectives. This kind of intellectual stimulation is important for keeping your mind active and engaged, and can help to prevent cognitive decline later in life.

Another benefit of summer reading is that it can improve your vocabulary, reading comprehension, and writing skills. Reading books, especially those that challenge you intellectually, can expose you to new words and phrases and help you to improve your ability to understand complex ideas. This, in turn, can help you to become a better writer and communicator, both in your personal and professional life.

Perhaps one of the most important benefits of summer reading, however, is the simple joy and pleasure it brings. Reading books that you love, that captivate you and make you feel something, can bring immense happiness and satisfaction. This kind of emotional connection to a book can also help to develop empathy and emotional intelligence, as you’re forced to put yourself in the shoes of the characters and experience their emotions.

community AND SUMMER READING

I find that summer reading is a great way to build community and connect with others. Whether it’s joining a book club or simply discussing a book with friends or family members, reading can be a social activity that brings people together. This kind of connection is especially important during times when we may feel isolated or disconnected from others, as it can help to foster a sense of belonging and community.

Summer reading is much more than just a fun way to pass the time. It has a multitude of benefits that can improve your mental, emotional, and intellectual well-being, as well as bring joy and connection to your life. So this summer, I encourage you to pick up a book (or two, or three) and let yourself get lost in the magic of reading. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you for it.

WHERE TO FIND the best books for summer

As an avid reader, finding good summer books is always at the top of my to-do list. There’s nothing quite like discovering a new author or genre and immersing myself in a captivating story. Over the years, I’ve discovered several great places to find summer books that I thought I’d share with you.

One of the best places to find good summer books is at your local library. Most libraries offer a wide selection of books across a variety of genres. The best part is that it’s completely free! Libraries often have summer reading programs that encourage people to read and offer incentives like prizes and events. It’s also a great way to discover new authors and series that you may not have heard of before. I love going to the library in the summer. Taking my time browsing the shelves, and picking out a few books to read on my vacation.

Another great place to find good summer books is at a bookstore. Bookstores are a great place to discover new books and authors. Often have a variety of genres and styles to choose from. Many bookstores also have knowledgeable staff. They can recommend books based on your interests, making it a great place to find something new to read. Bookstores often have events like author signings or book clubs. Which can be a great way to meet other readers and get involved in the literary community.

Online book retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble are also great places to find summer books. With their vast selection of titles and user-generated reviews, it’s easy to find books that are popular and highly recommended. Many online retailers also offer personalized recommendations based on your reading history. Making it easy to discover new books and authors that you may not have known about. One of the things I love about online bookstores is the convenience. Being able to order books from the comfort of my own home is the best. As well as having them delivered right to my doorstep.

Online Shopping FOR THE BEST SUMMER BOOKS

I also am a huge fan of book subscription services. There are many subscription services available today that offer monthly deliveries of books curated to your personal tastes. These services can be a great way to discover new authors and genres. Often come with extra goodies like bookmarks or exclusive author interviews. Some popular book subscription services include Book of the Month, OwlCrate, and Powell’s Indispensable.

Honestly, social media is also a great place to find good summer books. Platforms like Instagram and Goodreads are filled with book recommendations from fellow readers, authors, and book bloggers. By following book-related accounts or joining book groups. It’s easy to discover new titles and genres that you may not have known about. Social media is also a great way to connect with other readers. To get involved in online book clubs or discussions.

There are many great places to find good summer books. From your local library to online bookstores and book subscription services. Whether you prefer physical books or e-books, fiction or non-fiction, there’s something out there for everyone. So this summer, I encourage you to explore new authors, genres, and stories. Discover the joy of getting lost in a good book.