Reading is probably my favorite activity and it has been since I can remember. I’m truly never bored because if I have free time, I read. This year has been an especially good time for my hobby in that I was quarantined for a few months and now I’m limiting my time outside of my home and with other people. I read mostly off of my iPad and I use a library app to get my books (besides being a nerdy reader, I’m also cheap). I’m a bit of a snob about the books I read in that I’m open to almost any topic but the book must be very well written or I’m done with it. 

Most of my book recommendations come from two people, both of whom I trust implicitly. The first is my friend, Lauren Margolin, aka, The Good Book Fairy. Lauren and I became friends when she asked what I liked to read. I’m pretty sure that was a test and I passed. When we see each other in person (which hasn’t been for quite a while), she always knows that I’m likely to end our meal by pressuring her for her latest favorite reads. She never disappoints with her wise and eclectic taste. 

My second recommender is my friend and neighbor, Tiffany S. I’m pretty sure that she wouldn’t appreciate me giving you her contact information, but trust me when I say she has fantastic taste in books. She and I share the belief that a book can be sad, terrifying, depressing, and scary and as long as it’s written well, we are good with its dark nature. When Tiffany texts with a recommendation, I put on it on my “must read soon” list. She also never disappoints. 

If you have a good book you can never truly be bored. Here are some excellent summer reading suggestions. #books #reading #novels #memoir Click To Tweet

So, here’s my list for this summer. All are fiction except for the last book, which is a memoir.

The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson, 2019
t’s about the first mobile library in Kentucky and the brave female librarians who delivered books to the devastatingly poor and undereducated people in their community.

Call Your Daughter Home by Deb Spera, 2019
It’s hard to put this one to words but it’s about three mothers in 1924 South Carolina. I loved it.

The Dutch House by Ann Patchet, 2019
A beautiful sibling story about their childhood, childhood home, and how both influenced their adult lives. 

This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger, 2019
I couldn’t put this one down. This is about four orphans and their odyssey starting in Minnesota in 1932. A must read.

The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré, 2020
YOU HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK. Seriously, read this book. It’s about a Nigerian girl born into desperate poverty and her desire to have a voice and to control her own destiny. Beautifully written and inspirational.

Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano, 2020
It’s about a plane crash and yet it’s one of the most hopeful and beautiful stories I’ve ever read. Edward is the sole survivor of a plane crash that kills his brother and his parents. Don’t let the plane crash scare you away. It’s a life affirming, hopeful book that you won’t be able to put down.

The Book of Longings by Sue Monk Kidd, 2020
Blown away. I couldn’t put it down, and hold on when I tell you what it’s about: the wife of Jesus. Yes, you read that right. It’s fiction, it’s fantastic, and it’s written by someone who loves Jesus and her faith. 

Valentine by Elizabeth Wetmore, 2020
A devastating book that is brilliantly written. It’s about the brutal rape of a young Hispanic woman in a rural town in Texas. Yes, that sounds depressing as hell and yet this book gives you a glimpse into humanity, survival, and strength. You will not be able to put it down.

Untamed by Glennon Doyle, 2020
Doyle used to be considered a Christian Mommy Blogger, and I loved her books and blogs from that point of view. Now Doyle is a married lesbian who isn’t taking anyone’s crap anymore, and I love her even more. This is a fiery book for all ages and all genders. If you just read the introduction, your life will be changed. I’m not kidding.

I could put twenty more books on this list because there are so many great books to read. I love when people add to the list so let me know what you are reading these days.

Stay healthy and enjoy this crazy summer!

Love,

Lisa Kaplin Psy. D. PCC