Summer Book Recommendations

Escapism is one of my favorite ways to pass time. Is it the smartest or most beneficial way to pass time? Probably not. But it does the trick. And with that, my favorite way of escapism is losing myself in a book. Especially during the summer, when I have no responsibilities except to put on sunscreen, reading is the perfect companion to laying out in the sun. As well, reading makes me feel productive when in reality, I could probably be doing something more useful. But you know what, I could also be doing worse things over the course of a summer. However, there is an art to reading in the summer. I'm a major mood reader, and something about the June-July-August months makes me more inclined to find books that correspond with the weather and the general "vibe" of summertime. So, with all that being said, here are some book recommendations for the summer!

Happy Hour by Marlowe Granados

An intoxicating novel about youth, friendship, love, and life lessons. It takes place during summer in New York City, and if that isn't the perfect setting, then I don't know what is. The story is told from the point of view of Isa Epley, newly twenty-one years old, as she navigates her twenties in NYC with her best friend Gala Novak. Together, they traipse through the city with their financial burdens, catching the eye of many men and experiencing life to its fullest. This novel is comforting and painfully relatable. It encapsulates the mistakes and freedom you have as you navigate your early twenties. One of my favorite novels of all time and a great read to kick off your summer!

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes by Anita Loos

If I only had one word to describe this book, it would be 'fun'-- and who doesn't want a little fun during their summer? Though this novel was first published in 1925, its story and characters are quite timeless. Gentlemen Prefer Blondes details the travels of Lorelai and her friend Dorothy as they explore their way through Europe. Lorelai is the archetype of a good-hearted gold digger who is equally as charming and a bit outrageous. You can't help but love her. It's a no-strings-attached book, and it's bound to give you a good time.

Beach Read by Emily Henry

If you know anything about Emily Henry, you know that most, if not all of her books, are the definition of summer. I mean, it's basically written into the title. Beach Read is my favorite novel of hers, and it follows the rapport of January, a romance writer who's lost all hope in love, and Gus, a literary writer who can't seem to get over his writer's block. Despite their predictable romance, this novel goes beyond their relationship. Everything about this novel draws you in: the characters, the banter, and the plot. It's the perfect summer read.

Acts of Service by Lillian Fisherman

This novel definitely falls under the NC-17 category with its witty and provocative exploration of sex and sexuality. Eve is a younger, queer woman living in Brooklyn who meets Olivia and her boyfriend Nathan, and the three of them begin a thrilling but disturbing relationship. Despite its profane nature, this book dives into the questions of love, sex, gender, and power. Once you start, it will be hard to put this novel down. You must go into this text with an open mind, and if you do, it'll be a binge-able read.

The Great Godden by Meg Rosoff

If you want a book with love, mystery, and summer, this book is for you. The Great Godden is told from the perspective of an ambiguous narrator, specifically their gender. In this novel, the narrator enjoys their summer in a holiday home by the beach, where they encounter two brothers: irresistibly charismatic Kit and his brother, the silent, brooding Hugo. The narrator connects with each brother on different levels, inevitably altering the course of a peaceful summer. With the added mystery of the anonymity of the narrator, this book is sure to keep you enthralled.

My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh

I've discussed this book differently in a previous post, but My Year of Rest and Relaxation is a bold and humorous story. The narrator, a young, pretty, and intelligent female residing in New York City, is searching for a way to avoid the tribulations of her mental illness. Her solution? To sleep for as long as she can. With the help of a terrible psychiatrist and many drugs, the narrator details her life as she falls in and out of slumber for extended periods of time. So.. How is this a summer book? Well, whenever I think of summer, I think of catching up as much sleep as possible. Though the two scenarios are completely different, it's a brilliant story and a perfect poolside read.

My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante

Last but not least, we have My Brilliant Friend. Its popularity has seen a recent resurgence and for good reason. This book tells the bold, heartfelt story of Elena and her friendship with Lila. It details their troubles through academics, boys, friends, girlhood, and ultimately, having to grow up. The writing is absolutely beautiful, and it really feels as if you're walking through the streets of Italy. Once you read this, it'll give you the sudden urge to trapeze through the cobblestone streets of Europe. This book is the first of a four-part series, so if you love this one, you can continue following Elena's journey through four more novels.

So, there you have it. Seven books that are sure to keep you busy over the summer. Now, these are purely my own recommendations, so if you don't really sense a summer feeling as you read one, my apologies. Regardless, there are no real limitations to when you have to read or what book you must read. Whatever you choose, I hope you enjoy your next adventure.