5 Great Books to Read This Summer
By Taylor Grabowski
There’s something special about summertime in East Williston. The days are longer, the pace is slower, and it’s the perfect time to pick up a book. Whether you’re sitting on your porch with a glass of iced tea, taking a break at the park, or relaxing at the beach, a great story can keep you company and take you somewhere new.
To help you find your next favorite read, I’ve put together a list of five books that are perfect for the season. Some are heartwarming, others exciting, and all of them are worth your time. Let’s dive in!
1. The Wedding People by Alison Espach
This brand-new novel is funny, thoughtful, and full of surprises. It takes place at a fancy seaside hotel, where a group of strangers has gathered for a wedding. But things get interesting when Phoebe, a guest who doesn’t actually know the couple getting married, shows up and tries to figure out why she’s really there. Along the way, she meets other people who are also feeling a little lost.
What makes this book so enjoyable is the way it balances humor with real emotion. It’s about new beginnings, letting go of the past, and how unexpected connections can help us grow. If you enjoy stories with heart and humor, this one’s for you.
2. The Summer Book by Tove Jansson
Sometimes, the best stories are the quiet ones. This short novel is a beautiful look at the relationship between a young girl named Sophia and her grandmother as they spend the summer on a tiny island. They take walks, talk about life, and explore the outdoors.
Even though not a lot “happens,” it’s the kind of book that makes you slow down and appreciate the small moments. It’s gentle, wise, and full of warmth. If you want a book that helps you relax and reflect, this is a perfect choice.
3. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
This bestselling historical novel tells the unforgettable story of two sisters living in France during World War II. One sister, Vianne, stays home and tries to protect her daughter and survive under German rule. The other, Isabelle, joins the French Resistance and risks everything to fight back.
This book is powerful and emotional, but also inspiring. It shows the bravery of ordinary women during extraordinary times. It’s perfect for readers who like stories with real history, deep characters, and dramatic moments that stay with you long after you finish the last page.
4. Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
Inspired by Little Women, this moving novel explores family, love, and what it means to belong. It begins with William, a quiet, thoughtful man who has had a hard life. When he falls in love with
Julia, he becomes part of her big, loving Italian-American family. But when tragedy strikes, the family must find a way to heal.
This book is full of heart. It shows how people can hurt each other, and how they can also forgive and grow. It’s great for readers who enjoy emotional stories about relationships and second chances.
5. The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave
This fast-paced mystery will keep you turning pages late into the night. It follows Hannah, a woman whose husband suddenly disappears, leaving her only a note that says, “Protect her.” The “her” is his teenage daughter, Bailey, who doesn’t trust Hannah.
Together, the two must uncover the truth about his past—and what he was hiding. This book is part family drama, part thriller, and totally gripping. If you like books that mix mystery with heart, you’ll love this one.
Reading is a great way to unwind, stay curious, and escape into new worlds—all without leaving home. You can find these books at local bookstores, online, or at the library. And if you’re looking for a way to connect with others, consider starting a small book club with friends or neighbors. One book, one conversation, can bring people together.
