Summer is the perfect time to dive into a diverse array of literary delights, catering to every taste and age. From gripping mysteries that keep you on the edge of your beach towel to romances that tug on your heartstring under the shade of an umbrella, there’s a treasure trove of stories waiting to be discovered. So, whether you’re lounging by the pool, relaxing on a picnic blanket in the park, or embarking on a family vacation, these summer reading recommendations promise to transport you to worlds both familiar and fantastical, making your summer escape truly unforgettable.

CHILDREN

The Leadership Journey by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Discover the fascinating journeys of four iconic presidents in this engaging non-fiction work, perfect for 8-12 year olds. The Leadership Journey explores the early years of Lyndon Johnson, Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt, shedding light on the events, experiences, and influences that shaped them into the leaders they became.

Evelyn and Avery: The Art of Friendship by Elle Pierre
Explore the heartwarming bond between humans and animals in this whimsical tale of friendship. Evelyn and her animal companion, Avery, discover common interests and share exciting adventures in a vibrant, fun-filled world. Along the way, they learn from their mistakes and find ways to overcome challenges together. This delightful story, the first in an enchanting new series, carries a great message about the power of friendship between humans and animals.

The Frindle Files by Andrew Clements
In this highly anticipated follow-up to the legendary Frindle, Andrew Clements welcomes readers back to the love of language and its impact. The Frindle Files emphasizes the significance of language, the value of delving deep to uncover truths, and the importance of challenging preconceptions to envision new possibilities. Get ready to laugh out loud as you embark on another classic adventure that’s sure to capture the hearts of readers everywhere.

YOUNG ADULT

Witty in Pink by Erica George
If the young adult in your life is looking for a snarky, historical romantic comedy, look no further! Witty in Pink delivers in every way. Meet Blythe, a modern heroine with a sharp wit and a knack for business. As she navigates the challenges of starting her own venture, she unexpectedly finds love along the way. This hilarious tale offers good, clean fun, perfect for readers seeking both romance and laughs.

ADULT

The Au Pair Affair: A Novel by Tessa Bailey
Tessa Bailey continues to demonstrate her mastery of the sexy rom-com genre with her latest novel, returning with a heartwarming and hilarious story about a gruff, single dad who falls head-over-hockey-stick for his quirky live-in nanny. When broke grad student Tallulah agrees to become the nanny for hockey star and newly single father Burgess, she jumps at the chance … along with a job, she gets to live in an upscale neighborhood and help care for his introverted tween daughter, Lissa. But sparks soon fly, as both Tallulah and Burgess feel an undeniable attraction – it’s only a matter of time before they explore their burgeoning feelings. This story is the perfect blend of spicy and sweet, making it a must-read for romance enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in this enthralling story and enjoy the chemistry and charm that Tessa Bailey so effortlessly delivers. And mark your calendars, as Tessa will be stopping by Page 158 Books on July 19 at 6:00 PM!

The Book of Elsewhere by Keanu Reeves and China Miéville
Yes, THE Keanu Reeves! The Book of Elsewhere is a fusion of pulp sci-fi and literary fiction, co-written with China Miéville. Spanning 350 pages, the story chronicles the life of an immortal man – possibly a God. In modern times, he works for a secret black ops agency that promises to help him uncover the truth about his origins, in exchange for his assistance on their missions. While a compelling mystery ties the narrative together, the true magic of this book is learning about his life through the people and animals he’s encountered in the 80,000 years he’s spent roaming the world.

The God of the Woods: A Novel by Liz Moore
Liz Moore’s latest novel is the perfect summer mystery, packed with wealthy people behaving badly, multigenerational secrets, mid-century campiness, missing children, and a smart female detective determined to bring light to the murky past. Moore masterfully weaves a compelling atmosphere with a propulsive plot, and with her unparalleled talent for storytelling, her newest release is sure to be a favorite of the year for me.

Freezer Door Cocktails: 75 Cocktails That Are Ready When You Are by J. M. Hirsch
Hirsch, the director at Milk Street Cooking, brings a game-changing concept to the world of cocktails with Freezer Door Cocktails, your go-to collection of 75 ready-to-pour drink recipes designed to be made directly in the liquor bottle and stored on your freezer door for instant enjoyment. The idea is simple yet brilliant: take your preferred alcohol, pour a glass off the top, add the mixings, and voila – your cocktail is ready whenever you are. His recipes cover a range of flavors and styles, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a casual drinker, these freezer-ready cocktails make entertaining a breeze.

Catherine de’ Medici: The Life and Times of the Serpent Queen by Mary Hollingsworth
Renowned Italian Renaissance scholar Mary Hollingsworth presents an enthralling biography with Catherine de’ Medici: The Life and Times of the Serpent Queen. This book promises to captivate readers with tales of this formidable woman who stood at the political, religious, and artistic heart of 16th-century Europe, often directing the course of events that would have seismic cultural ramifications.

Tiger, Tiger: His Life, As It’s Never Been Told Before by James Patterson
In Tiger, Tiger, acclaimed author James Patterson provides a glimpse into the life of Tiger Woods. This compelling biography covers Woods’ journey from his early years, through the downtimes, and into his comeback. By not shying away from the controversies surrounding Woods, Patterson humanizes the legendary golfer, allowing readers to empathize with his struggles. Tiger, Tiger is a gripping and thought-provoking read that offers insights not only into the life of a sporting legend, but also into the nature of fame, ambition, and resilience. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the true story behind one of the most iconic figures in sports history.