Since last week marked the first official day of summer, I thought it’d be the perfect time to share not only a library book haul but also the summer reads I’ve pulled from my shelves to read this summer. Whenever the next season rolls around, I feel that renewed excitement for all things reading. Just like my clothes and makeup, I want to enjoy every bit of what this season offers. Long afternoons reading on the porch with my cold brew are in my near future! (I’m looking at you, Friday!)
Last Friday, the kids and I took our weekly trip to the library. I had a few holds to pick up, which are literally heavenly when it comes to take kids to the library. Admittedly, I don’t have the luxury of wandering the stacks, but I’d much rather roam around the kids’ area and find summer reads for them. Here’s what I picked up.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This is a page turner. Set in ‘present day,’ Monique is writing the biography of famous actress Evelyn Hugo. Evelyn Hugo was a sex symbol in the industry back in her day. She’s now nearing her death bed and has requested Monique specifically to pen her life story. Monique has no idea why Evelyn wants her. I am a little over halfway through this one and it’s really good.
I Liked My Life by Abby Fabiaschi
This one is a little bit darker. I Like My Life is about loss and family. Maddy is a devoted wife and mother who commits suicide. This story follows the days after her death, when her family is trying to piece together what went wrong. Maddy, however, isn’t ready to leave her family. She is on the other side trying to find a replacement for herself.
This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen
I’ve heard a few good reviews of Sarah Dessen’s books and decided to try her out. She supposedly has a chick-lit vibe that I think is perfect for summer. I didn’t even read this synopsis. I’m going in blind! Do you ever do that with books?
The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton
This one is right up my alley — a murder mystery! Evellyn Hardcastle has died and Aiden Bishop, our main character, can possess 8 different people to try and figure out whodunnit. Every day he wakes up in someone else’s body. He can only escape the cycle when he figures out who killed Evelyn Hardcastle. I’m excited to start this one!
These next few books are from my own bookshelves. I’m not feeling super inspired my own collection right now (hence, the haul from the library). but, I do have a few Scandi-inspired books to read that will hopefully pique my interest.
The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart
This has been on my shelves for a long time, and it’s high time I read it. It’s a middle grade novel that follows four kids who are admitted into the Mysterious Benedict Society. Their mission is to go undercover at the Institute for the Very Enlightened, where there are no rules. This sounds like a fun adventure. I am considering doing a read-aloud with our kids for the summer with this one.
Nine Perfect Strangers by Liane Moriarty
I feel like this one might be ‘old news,’ but I really like Liane Moriarty’s writing style. Big Little Lies was an enjoyable read for me years ago. I hope this one is, too!
Lagom by Niki Brantmark
In the quest to find balance in my life … I bought another book. Okay, that’s half a joke. For what it’s worth, I don’t think balance can really be obtained. Moreso, I think the strive for balance brings me into an intentional mindset. I wanted this book more of the visual appeal. Some reviews say it reads more like a magazine, and that sounds wonderful to me. If I pick up any ideas along the way, then that will be even better.
The Book of Lykke: Secrets of the World’s Happiest People by Meik Wiking
After reading The Happiest Kids in the World and enjoying, I thought this would be a great addition to my bookshelves. I’m excited to read this one.
Scandinavian Gatherings by Melissa Bahen
I am forever envious of midsummer celebrations. A celebration full of food, friends, and sunshine? Sign me up! I am interested to read more about Scandinavian celebrations and food.
What should I read after the Evelyn Hugo book?
Rebecca has been writing about style, beauty, and lifestyle topics since 2011. Thank you so much for reading this post! Feel free to leave any questions or comments below. I love hearing from you!
