Today I am doing something a little bit different, I will be sharing my summer reading guide to help get you in the spirit of summer!
Each recommendation is set up for a different 'type' of summer read, depending on what your summer reading plans! I tried to keep the choices limited to recent-ish releases or ones that are releasing soon, but I've also included some older faves! Let's get into the books!
Bang by Barry Lyga
This is the first book I have cried in. Not just tears welling up in my eyes, but literal tears on my face. The story follows 14-year-old Sebastian who, when he was 4-years-old shot and killed his 4-month-old sister. Not only does this book deal with gun violence but also includes a Muslim family and explores some of the social tensions surrounding both issues.
Alex, Approximately by Jenn Bennett
I haven't had a chance to read this one yet but I've heard some great things about it! I loved Bennett's debut, The Anatomical Shape of a Heart and am excited for this book as well.
Alone in Paris by Ashley Earley
Right off the bat, don't let this cute, kissing couple cover fool you. This book is dark and it is definitely not just a cutesy romance. The story follows 17-year-old Taylor, who, after the tragic death of her parents, is living in an abandoned apartment building alone in Paris. There is definitely romantic elements but the book focuses on Taylor's depression and personal issues first.
The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken
This is just a classic series that you have to read. There's a little apocalypse, a little romance, a road trip, all the makings of a great book. Now that the series is completed, you can marathon the whole thing over the summer. Plus, you can read the book before the movie comes out in the fall!
Goodbye Days by Jeff Zentner
I just loved everything about this book. The storyline, the narrative, it was beautifully bittersweet. This was my first Zentner novel and it was absolutely phenomenal, I adored it! I'm planning on picking up his debut, The Serpant King soon.
The Best Possible Answer by E. Katherine Kottaras
Even though this book came out in the winter, it is set in the summer time, and most of the events take place at the pool where the characters work for the summer. This is a really great book to read if you are looking for something to help ease the stress of school in the fall and expectations of what to do with your life, I found myself easily relating to Viviana.
Boys of Summer by Jessica Brody
I haven't read this one yet either, but based on the title alone, I think it fits! I'm getting a sort of We Were Liars by E. Lockhart vibe. Either way, it sounds like it'd be a great summer read.
And there you have it, my 2017 Summer Reading List! I hope you are able to find a couple of books that pique your interest!