Tanned and Tome’d:
This Summer’s Must-Read Books
by Jennifer Ridgway
When you’re a kid, summer reading is mostly comprised of the books your teachers want you to read before school resumes in the fall. But when you’re an adult, you’re free to read whatever you want. For some, it may be a juicy romance that’s pure escapism, for others a big, fat book that they can finally take the time to tackle. Below are nine great books, mostly new to the shelves, to fill your reading fancy this summer.
-
It's a Long Story: My Life
Now 80, Nelson has lived quite a life; this is his story — in his words and voice — covering all the highs and lows: the women, Farm Aid, bankruptcy, and, of course, the award-winning music.
-
The Wright Brothers
McCullough, a two time Pulitzer Prize-winning author, has written the definitive story of Orville and Wilbur Wright, the brothers who showed the world they could fly.
-
The Knockoff
A new novel set in the world of fashion magazines for the digital age. With obvious comparisons to The Devil Wears Prada, this is what would have happened if Andy had taken over and turned into a crazy, social media-obsessed dictatorial editor.
-
Uprooted
Novik is best known for her Temeraire series. In this stand-alone novel, she has written a brilliant fairy tale for adults. With a great heroine and surprising twists and turns, you’ll be turning pages all the way through to the satisfying conclusion.
-
Orhan’s Inheritance
Set against the backdrop of the Armenian genocide, Ohanesian’s debut novel is a touching portrait of family secrets, war-torn love, and sacrifice.
-
Where They Found Her
Told from the viewpoint of three different women, a small town tragedy unfolds in this thrilling new novel about secrets, trust, and the pain we cause the ones we love.
-
Beach Town
A small Florida beach town, a growing attraction, and conflict — the perfect formula for a summer beach read. Throw in big-budget movies and politics, and you have all the makings of a delicious escape read.
-
The Great Gatsby
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the publication of The Great Gatsby. Often heralded as the perfect American novel, this summer is the perfect time to read (or reread) this tale of lavish parties, love, and disillusionment.
-
To Kill a Mockingbird
Lee’s new novel, Go Set a Watchman, comes out in July and is set some twenty years after Mockingbird. Before picking up what has already been one of the most talked about books of 2015, read the original story of Scout, Atticus, et al., one of the most loved books of all time.
