Looking for ways to expand your literary horizons this summer? If you are always on the prowl for a good book, story, or something to peruse that is worthwhile, below are some of the titles slated as great summertime reads. Taking time to read is not always a priority in today's hectic society, but these books appeal to readers seeking escape, comfort, information, or a new outlook. There’s something for everyone, so find a quiet nook, hammock, or even better, draw yourself a bath and sink into time, reading just for fun.
The Given Day by Dennis Lehane
As a prolific bestselling author, Lehane has given new meaning to the word “success.” If you haven’t read one of his books, you’ve probably seen Mystic River or Gone, Baby, Gone, films adapted from books of the same titles. Martin Scorsese (yes, Goodfellas Scorsese) is directing Leo DiCaprio in the movie version of his book, Shutter Island, due out next October. So the latest novel effort, The Given Day, is getting lots of attention. As historical fiction, it is somewhat of a departure for Lehane, who is better known for his crime series and contemporary dramas. Set in Boston after World War I, The Given Day ambitiously follows the stories of two families separated by race, through history-making events such as the Spanish Influenza epidemic, The Boston Molasses Disaster, and the Boston Police Strike. Granted, it’s not a short read—at 700+ pages, it will serve as a sturdy doorstop when you’re not reading it. But a really good read is worth it. Maybe try the audio version?
I Should Have Stayed Home: The Worst Trips of the Great Writers by Roger Rapoport
This collection is sure to put your recent trip in perspective. Great writers such as Dave Barry, Barbara Kingsolver and others document everything from surprise lodgings to language misunderstandings to weather catastrophes, usually with a humorous slant. This title is part of a series, which gets better and better. Other titles include I Really Should Have Stayed Home, I Just Should Have Stayed Home, and I Should Have Gone Home.
I Hate to See That Evening Sun Go Down by William Gay
This collection of short stories contains one of the most haunting stories ever, The Paperhanger. Gay is Southern, and it is easy to tell from his writing. His style is dark, heavy, and mind-teasing. As a genre, short stories fit seamlessly into busy schedules, since most are under twenty-five pages. You may find yourself sneaking in a story in a parking lot, or getting up earlier to savor his crafty metaphors. The reward for cracking open this book is awakening to a humming undercurrent of rich characters operating in a world similar to yours, just way more sinister.
Outliers: The Stories of Success by Malcolm Gladwell
This is the kind of book that pulls you in. Gladwell uses specific examples such as Bill Gates to build his theory of why the highly successful in our society reach their levels of achievement. Time, place, family, culture and class make a difference and Gladwell explains why. 10,000 hours will have a new meaning for you after this read.
The Painted Veil by W. Somerset Maugham
Actors Edward Norton and Naomi Watts were in a film version of The Painted Veil a couple of years ago and it spurred new interest in the text. The film does not follow the book, however, particularly in the film’s conclusion. Maugham’s writing is sublime, transitioning the reader to the 1930’s effortlessly. It is the story of a young, dedicated doctor, Walter, married to a shallow socialite, Kitty, who takes him for granted until he decides to move them both into the Chinese interior to address a cholera outbreak. The real fabric of the marriage as well as Kitty’s true self materializes there, and a heart-wrenching twist completes a story set among very adult themes of loyalty, passion, honesty, and trust.
The Bon Appetit Cookbook: Fast, Easy & Fresh by Barbara Fairchild
If you loves finding challenging recipes, visiting quaint little shops, and agonizing for hours over a meal’s pairing with the right wine, you are already familiar with the Bon Appetit magazine. If, however, you are like me, and don’t have time for traditional recipes that may consume all afternoon, this is the cookbook for you. Each recipe is quick and delicious. For example the sage and mustard pork medallions take under twenty minutes to prepare. The book has plentiful photos, good to get your mouth watering. There's also information on how to choose, store and prepare all kinds of vegetables and fruit. In an era when we’re all cutting spending, maybe the homecooked meal will finally win the battle for the clock.
So, there you go. Hopefully one or more of the above titles caught your eye. What’s even better is that most of these books are available at your local library, too; check them out. To inspire your little readers this season, see the article, Celebrate Summer with New Readers.
