My whole life, I have always loved reading. In my opinion, nothing quite marks the beginning of summer break more than being able to sit on the beach wrapped up in a novel. This summer, I’ve had plenty of opportunities to read and have discovered a variety of books that are fast paced and perfect for quick, easy reading. I started the season on a bit of a summer reading bender while stuck working at a very slow job. Thus, I found some books for everyone to enjoy. 

“Carrie Soto is Back” Taylor Jenkins Reid 

My number one book recommendation for the summer has to be “Carrie Soto is Back” by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Having read many of her previous popular novels, I was a little hesitant that such a new arrival would be able to take its place in ranks amongst “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo,” “Malibu Rising” and “Daisy Jones and the Six.” However, this book exceeded my expectations. Before reading this book, I had no prior knowledge about the game of tennis; however, it definitely didn’t make it any less enjoyable. “Carrie Soto is Back” was a fabulous page turner with enthralling tennis matches littering the book that made it hard to turn away. 

“We Were Liars” and “Family of Liars” E. Lockhart 

These books were interesting tales with many twists. Perfect for the summer season,  both books are set on a private island during summer break, adding to the fun and whimsical atmosphere. Full of thrilling events, old family money and heavy expectations, this is a world that is hard to pry your eyes away from and a book I would highly recommend taking a chance on this summer, with a prequel just as good as the first novel. 

“Where She Went” Gayle Forman 

This book follows Mia after the events of Gayle Forman’s “If I Stay,” in which her parents die in a tragic car accident. This event subsequently leaves her comatose as she battles with the idea of staying or dying. In my personal opinion, the sequel is much better than the original book and gives depth to Mia and her boyfriend Adam as they reunite and work through their trauma together. This book is beautifully written and shows the personal battle that comes from loss, fame and first loves. 

“Normal People” Sally Rooney 

This book is a beautiful tale of the tragic highs and lows of human connection in possibly the most influential time of a person’s life — the high school and college years. This book follows Connell and Marianne as they continuously fall apart and reunite through discovering themselves. This book was recently developed into a Hulu series and has since gained an even wider fanbase, putting it on the map as an incredibly insightful and reflective novel. 

“I’m Glad My Mom Died” Jeanette McCurdy 

Upon reading this book, I was surprised by the level of artistic mastery displayed by former Nickelodeon star Jeanette McCurdy, as she describes the events that led her to childhood stardom and the pain that came with it. McCurdy has easily one of the most interesting lives I have heard of in Hollywood and this memoir portrays her journey through her career in a realistic way that anyone can enjoy. I would highly recommend this book to anyone — especially those who are already fans of Jeanette McCurdy’s work on screen. 

There are plenty of fabulous books to get your summer reading season started, but as a book lover I can tell you these are some of the best books I have ever read. They are perfect for any occasion and truly make it difficult to turn away. With enthralling main characters, interesting storylines and compelling writing, these books truly top my summer reading list. 

Happy Summer Break!