Summer Reads

If you are anything like me, summer reading is always near the top of your “summer to do list,” but somehow it always manages to never get done. This summer, I challenge you to read 4-5 books, whether they are books you have already read or books you have only thought about reading. I am telling you, you just need to pick up a book.

Too many of us are getting so caught up in social media sites. We are constantly checking Facebook and complaining about the little time we have in a day. When you really think about it, it comes down to how much time you are spending online. I challenge you to find a spot to go, relax, read, and take a break from the world. Maybe for you that place is on a crowded beach or maybe it is in some secret garden you found last summer. Either way, that place is where you can get away.

For those of you looking for a good read, but something that contains substantial literature, here are a few of my favorites.

East of Eden: John Steinbeck will never get tiring. His story takes place in, of course, the Salinas Valley in the period between the Civil War and World War I. Steinbeck presents Adam and Charles (first generation) and Adam’s sons Aron and Cal (second generation). It is no coincidence that their first initials coincide with those of Cane and Abel. The book is broken into three parts where Steinbeck explores the constant battle between good and evil. 

 The Awakening: Kate Chopin’s novel begins with Edna, an obedient wife and mother who soon realizes there is more than societal structure. She has a sexual awakening, which drives her to become an independent woman. She leaves her husband and pursues painting.

The Great Gatsby: Not only is this book a classic, but there is a new version of this coming to theatres this Christmas. Get ahead by reliving Fitzgerald’s obsession and tragedy lived through Gatsby.

The Kite Runner: Hassan and Amir were the best of friends. Amir, the narrator, returns to their childhood in order to describe the event that changed his [and Hassan’s] life forever. Hosseini’s novel keeps you on your toes and you can hardly stop reading.

Now for those of you looking for something fun (not that any of the above aren’t fun, but really they are all pretty depressing, aren’t they?) to read this summer, here are a few that flying off the stacks.

Pretty Little Liars: Where do I even start with this series? If you haven’t been watching the series, you should! I was very against watching this series for such a long time, but then one day I ran into an episode and fell in love. I’m excited to start reading the books (as I have yet to myself) and I’m hoping you will join me.

Eat, Pray, Love: Now let me tell, the book is 10,000 times better than the movie! It makes you long to travel and experience life. This is the perfect book for summer.

The Hunger Games: Many people waited for the movie to come out before reading it, but many read the book beforehand. I saw the movie and instantly went out and bought the books. Check this awesome series out this summer!

The Time Traveler’s Wife: Another book that is better than the movie. Although the book is quite confusing at first, you will get the hang of it and fall in love with the story.

Now I know I said we spend too much time on the computer, so now that you are done reading this, go to your nearest bookstore and pick up one of these, take it your favorite spot, relax, read, and enjoy your summer!