On the Shelf: Great books for summer

By Courtney Warren

The school year is almost over! Normally, I am not one to look forward to summer. I love being in school and in the classroom, However, I am excited for the new reading opportunities. With the recent concerns for our local libraries and indie bookstores, be sure to stop by and see what you can find! Grab your sunscreen, put on the swimsuit, and settle down with a new read. 

Picture Book: Don't Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson and Dan Santat

Don't Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson, with illustrations by Dan Santat, is a delightfully fun and humorous picture book that challenges young readers to question everything they know about fish. With playful text and vibrant illustrations, this book introduces a world where things are not always as they seem, making it a perfect blend of humor and imagination. Kids will laugh out loud while learning important lessons about trust and curiosity in the most unexpected places. I absolutely love anything illustrated by Dan Santat. I had the opportunity to hear him speak shortly after he won the Caldecott Award, the highest award one can receive for picture books. He has become an “autobuy” author for me. 

Middle Grade: Kaya of the Ocean by Suzanne Brown

How amazing is this cover? It reminds me of the Disney movie Rip Girls, which I was in love with as a child. According to the publisher, Kaya of the Ocean by Suzanne Brown is an exciting and heartwarming middle grade adventure. Kaya, a brave young girl with an extraordinary connection to the ocean, embarks on a journey to uncover the mysteries hidden beneath the waves. With themes of friendship, courage and environmental awareness, this book will captivate young readers and inspire them to explore the world around them with curiosity and empathy.

Young Adult: All We Lost Was Everything by Sloan Harlow

I was able to read the Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book, and finished it so fast. I imagine it being the perfect beach read thriller. In All We Lost Was Everything, Sloan Harlow explores the intense and often painful journey of young love and self-discovery. Set against a backdrop of a close-knit community, the novel follows two teens trying to navigate their relationship in the face of family secrets and societal pressures. Harlow's emotional depth and vivid characters make this a must-read for fans of young adult romance and coming-of-age stories.

Adult Fiction: Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry

One of my most anticipated books for the summer! I love any and all Emily Henry books. Emily Henry's latest novel, Great Big Beautiful Life, follows two rival biographers competing to write about a reclusive heiress. As they delve into her past, they uncover unexpected truths about themselves and their growing feelings for each other. Known for her engaging storytelling, Henry delivers another romantic tale filled with wit and emotion.

Adult Nonfiction: Everything Is Tuberculosis by John Green

Hear me out…sure, tuberculosis doesn’t exactly scream “summer,” but I’m trying to expand my nonfiction reading. I love John Green, and I’m always into learning new things, so I say we both give this one a shot…and also take a vitamin. According to the publisher, in this thought-provoking work, John Green examines the history and impact of tuberculosis, intertwining medical insights with personal narratives. Everything Is Tuberculosis offers a unique perspective on the disease and its societal implications, making it a compelling read for nonfiction enthusiasts.

Whether you're lounging by the pool or relaxing at home, these books offer a diverse range of stories to enrich your summer reading experience. Happy reading!