In honor of (at least my) last two weeks of summer my what to read list will consist only of books that sound like they’d make some great, light reading outside in a hammock or lounging at the pool. And as usual, books I think you should be adding to your last minute summer to-read list too.
Me and Earl and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews: Discovered on my always consulted when I can’t think of anything else to consult Goodreads recommendation shelf, Greg Gaines is another one of our young adult protagonists who disappears into the social scene and isn’t exactly “popular.” This might be because he and his friend Earl spend a lot of time making movies based on Coppola and Herzog classics. But just when you thought that was enough of a plot, Greg is forced to rekindle friendship with dying childhood playmate Rachel and Greg decides to make a movie for her. Does it sound like a literary masterpiece? No. Does it sound like it would be a good beach companion? Yes.
The Grift by Debra Ginsberg: What summer would be complete without a fake teenage psychic who wakes up one day and realizes she’s not a fake? Well, I thought mine would be, but maybe I’ll have to think again. Marina Marks’s mother (love the alliteration) is a grifter and forces her daughter to pretend to be a psychic so they can make money. But then Marina realizes she actually does have psychic powers, and she gets tangled up in a murder. More drama than you could usually stomach? Not in the last few days of summer. Besides, I need some kind of fake psychic to hold me over until the next season of Psych starts…
Summer Sisters by Judy Blume: I hate to admit it, but I’ve never actually been a Judy Blume “fan”. In fact…I’ve never actually read a book she’s written all the way through. I’m not sure why. I guess when I was a “YA” reading YA I was more interested in Bellairs and sneaking in Stephen King to care about the authors focused on the real world. But now might be the time to rectify that. Vix and Caitlin are friends since childhood because of their summers in Martha’s Vineyard. Then (as usual) something happens. But when Caitlin gets married she wants Vix to be her maid of honor. Sugary sweet summer love? True, but what else goes better with those last minute margaritas by the pool?
And if you’re in the mood for some shorter reading, check out this article from bookish, detailing former jobs of famous writers. I thought it was so interesting I had to share.
And don’t forget to follow me on twitter @xstitchurheart or suggest some beach reads of your own in the comments!
