As any avid reader knows, summer is the perfect time to lounge around on the couch and tuck in to read a nice, thick book. With August already upon us and summer break beginning to draw to a close, it’s important to relish in those remaining hours of freedom by fully taking advantage of the book-reading opportunity in front of you. For those who don’t know where they should start on this literary journey, here’s a list of books to check out for your reading pleasure.
Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell:
This is a great novel for anyone looking to get a taste of the contemporary genre. It’s a dual-perspective story about two teenagers who unexpectedly find themselves drawn to each other. It’s not your typical love story though. Rife with drama surrounding issues like racism and familial relationships, Eleanor and Park definitely holds your interest for one reason or another. This is a good, lone-standing book to read during the summer and will really get you thinking.
The Maze Runner Trilogy by James Dashner:
Anyone looking for some action and suspense should get their hands on The Maze Runner trilogy during the upcoming weeks. Not only has it been successful enough to warrant a movie adaptation of the first novel (released last year), but the sequel film The Scorch Trials is coming out in September. If you watched the movie and enjoyed it, definitely read the books so you know what’s in store. Just be warned that once you’ve started, there may a possibility that you won’t be able to put them down.
Entwined by Heather Dixon:
This is another great stand-alone novel to read, especially for lovers of fantasy. It’s a retelling of the fairy tale The Twelve Dancing Princesses but it’s not all ballet and tiaras. There’s a sinister twist to the story involving all sorts of magic and secrecy. The novel will definitely keep you gripped, and you won’t expect the plot twists that the author brings into play.
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen:
Very different from the other novels you’ll see in the young adult section of the bookstore these days, this classic is absolutely worth a read. It’s been considered by some to be one of the best books of all time, and it’s definitely worth the hype. You’ll find yourself becoming immersed in the culture of old, Victorian England and wrapped up in a story about breeding and first impressions, love and hate. Make sure not to pass by this novel, even though it was written two hundred years ago!
Be sure to add these books to your reading list for what’s left of the summer, you definitely won’t regret it. Happy reading!
