Great Reads to Savor the Last Days of Summer

It’s hard to believe the dog days of summer are here in all their smoldering glory. Stores are already packed to the gills with school supplies, and I’m suddenly finding myself feeling scholarly and excited about the cooler days ahead where curling up with a cup of tea, and a book is a life. I have to say though the only thing better than that is reading beachside under a colorful umbrella, listening to the sound of crashing waves. The wonderful thing about diving into a good book is being transported to a different world, learning something new, and improving vocabulary skills. In a society of hashtags, and abbreviations it’s refreshing to read a complete sentence, anyone with me on that?

With options such as the electronic Kindle, and Nook readers, you don’t have to sit on the library waiting list for the latest best-seller, and these innovations let you adjust the font size, and lighting, although there is something lovely about turning the pages of a book as well. Let’s all experience the stress-reducing benefits of reading with this sampling of trending books to beat the summer heat.

Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow

If you haven’t heard the buzz already, the recent Broadway production Hamilton was based on the biography of the life, and times of this successful government official, and chief of staff to George Washington. History buffs will love this brilliant account of one of our most influential founding fathers.

Quiet by Susan Cain

Taking a glimpse inside the world of introverts, Cain advocates for individuals who view their quieter, solitary nature as a personality flaw and feel they can’t compete with the social pressures of an extraverted society. With a keen understanding of this reserved group of individuals, the author offers to empower insight on how valuable the power of “quiet” can be, and should be embraced.

Old Age: A Beginner’s Guide by Michael Kinsley

In this poignant, yet a witty collection of essays, Kinsley reflects on life as a baby boomer and his journey with Parkinson’s disease. A New York Times, and Washington Post bestseller, the author is reviewed as having “the most envied journalistic voice of his generation”-Dwight Garner. Kinsley’s honest outlook speaks to his fellow baby boomers in a relatable straight forward way.

The Nest by Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney

7 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list, this novel is written about a dysfunctional New York family, and siblings anticipating their portion of The Nest aka. their inheritance. Readers can expect to find family drama and character development that doesn’t sugar-coat human nature.

According to a study at Yale University, people who spent time reading added an average of two years to their lifespan, so whether you’re part of a book club, or a regular at your local library, find a cozy corner, and nurture your inner bookworm!