Whether you’re a fan of sci-fi, nonfiction, or romance books there is something for everyone
Seven book recommendation covers, graphic by Sie Douglas-Fish.
Summer may be almost over, but there’s still time to pick up a great book before the back-to-school grind starts again. Whether you’re looking for something light to pack in your beach bag this labour day weekend, or a book to broaden your perspective, this list has something for everyone.
Here are seven books that you still enjoy before the end of the summer.
The Fifth Season, N.K. Jemisin
The Fifth Season follows multiple POVs that explore the world of orogenes — a powerful but oppressed class of people who can shift the Earth’s tectonic plates. If you’re looking to start a new series before the summer is over, The Broken Earth trilogy is a great choice. The first book in this sci-fi/fantasy series will keep you turning the pages and rushing out to buy the second book.
City of Girls, Elizabeth Gilbert
City of Girls takes place in 1940s New York City and pulls you into the vibrant world of theatre and showgirls. This novel is the perfect balance of light summer fun mixed with an emotional and moving story. You’ll fall in love with each one of the characters and find yourself unable to put it down.
Book Lovers, Emily Henry
If you’re looking for a more lighthearted book to finish off the summer break with, Emily Henry has you covered. This charming romance is the perfect addition to your beach bag. It follows a young literary agent who travels to a small town to complete a bucket list of romance novel tropes at the behest of her concerned sister. If you’re a fan of Hallmark Christmas movies, you’ll love this book.
Little Fires Everywhere, Celeste Ng
If you’re looking for a book so good you’ll finish it in one sitting, this might be for you. In Little Fires Everywhere, Celeste Ng weaves together the stories of four families in the suburb of Shaker Heights. The story of a mysterious fire unfolds while issues of race and class are explored. After you’re finished, be sure to check out the Amazon Prime TV series adaptation of the book.
Tiny Beautiful Things, Cheryl Strayed
Tiny Beautiful Things is a collection of entries from the advice column Dear Sugar written by Cheryl Strayed who is best known for her memoir Wild. This book will make you laugh and cry. Both the questions and Strayed’s responses are beautiful, vulnerable, and thoughtful. Even if you can’t relate to the problems of each of the entries, this book will inspire you to be a better, more compassionate person.
In the Dream House, Carmen Maria Machado
If you’re interested in reading a unique memoir before the end of summer, this one’s for you. In the Dream House details author Carmen Maria Machado’s experience in an abusive same-sex relationship. Each chapter, however, uses a different narrative trope, such as the unreliable narrator, to explore different aspects of the relationship. The interesting format adds even more depth to a heart-wrenching, yet beautiful story.
An Absolutely Remarkable Thing, Hank Green
If you’ve outgrown young adult fiction but don’t feel quite ready to tackle the adult section, An Absolutely Remarkable Thing is a great halfway point. This fast-moving sci-fi novel follows characters in their early twenties with the pacing of a YA novel. The book tackles important conversations about fame and the internet in a light-hearted and humorous setting that anyone can enjoy.
Whether you opt for fantasy, nonfiction, romance, or literary fiction, each of these books would be a great read to end your summer. Head to your local bookstore or public library to pick one up and enjoy!
