The lazy days of summer are in full swing. It’s the perfect time to dive into a new book, or, if you’re like me, one you’ve started but haven’t finished. Here’s a quick list of what I’ve been reading lately to get you started.
The Art of Racing in the Rain, Garth Stein
“A heart-wrenching but deeply funny and ultimately uplifting story of family, love, loyalty, and hope – a captivating look at the wonders and absurdities of human life … as only a dog could tell it.” This is a story of compassion and companionship as told through the canine narrator, Enzo. You’ll be filled with happiness, sadness and heartbreak – cue the tissues.
The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up, Marie Kondo
Summer is the perfect time to get organized. I know this may not make everyone’s summer reading list, but if you’re looking for organizational inspiration I highly recommend it. In this international best seller, Marie Kondo details her revolutionary “KonMari Method” of organization.
The main premise is determining which items in your home “spark joy” and eliminating the rest. Her methodical guidance will help you develop a system of clearing the clutter in no time. A tidy home will leave you feeling calm and inspired to kick back and enjoy the rest of your summer.
The Residence, Kate Andersen Brower
This is a glimpse into the daily life in the White house as told by the service staff, from the Kennedys to the Obamas. This book shares intimate accounts from the wait staff, maids, butlers, florists, chefs and doormen. There is an interesting dynamic between the first families and the people who dedicate their lives to serve them. “From the housekeeper and engineer who fell in love while serving President Reagan to Jackie Kennedy’s private moment of grief with a beloved staffer after her husband’s assassination to the tumultuous days surrounding President Nixon’s resignation and President Clinton’s impeachment battle, The Residence is full of surprising and moving details that illuminate day-to-day life at the White House.”
Sailing for Dummies, JJ Isler and Peter Isler
Ok, so I’m not suggesting that everyone run out and pick up a copy of Sailing for Dummies. What I AM recommending is that you get outside your comfort zone and read a book about a topic that’s new and interesting to you. Whether that is a book on gardening, a cookbook, or maybe even a foreign language you’ve been wanting to learn, dive into something unfamiliar.
A Man Called Ove, Fredrik Backman
I haven’t started this one yet, but it’s been on my radar.
“At 59, Ove is a grumble Gus of the first degree. Rules are made to be followed, signs are meant to be obeyed, and don’t even get him started about computers and mobile phones. In truth, Ove has been this way his whole life, but he’s gotten worse in the last four years since his wife, Sonja, died, taking with her all the color in a world Ove sees as black-and-white.
Ove has decided life without Sonja is not worth living and plans to join her in the next world. But a young couple and their two children (a third is on the way) move in next door, his oldest friend and most feared enemy is about to be forcibly removed to a nursing home, and a street-scarred cat insinuates itself into his life. Suddenly, Ove’s suicide plans get delayed as he helps solve neighborly crises large and small.
Though Ove’s dark mission mitigates any treacly upstaging by animals and small children, readers seeking feel-good tales with a message will rave about the rantings of this solitary old man with a singular outlook. If there was an award for “Most Charming Book of the Year,” this first novel by a Swedish blogger-turned-overnight-sensation would win hands down.”
Whether you’re jetting off on a week-long vacation, or just an afternoon at the beach, be sure to pack a book in your bag. Make some time to get lost in a novel, or maybe just learn something new and soak up these last few months of summer! Want to share your summer reads with us? Send us an email or give us a call at 910.681.0548.