I’ve always been a bit of a bookworm, and usually read at least one book a month. But during the summer I step it up a gear, and get through stacks of novels – from trashy chick-lit through to critically-acclaimed literary debuts. And here are five books I recommend reading while you lounge by the pool, this summer…
Eligible by Curtis Sittenfeld
Curtis Sittenfeld is my favourite author, and I re-read American Wife every year. Her latest novel, Eligible, was released just in time for the summer, and is a modern take on Pride and Prejudice. Liz Bennett now works at a glossy New York magazine, Jane is a yoga instructor, Darcy a neurosurgeon and Chip Bingley the star of a reality TV show.
So far Eligible has received mixed reviews, and I do agree that it’s not on the same level as Sittenfeld’s other work. But I was still completely engrossed in the story, and finished it within 72 hours. So if you’re searching for a lighthearted, fun romance to read on the beach this is the book for you.
Kitchens of the Great Midwest by J. Ryan Stradal
I picked up Kitchens of the Great Midwest at the airport on the way to Menorca, because I finished Eligible too quickly. And it’s without a doubt one of the strangest narratives I’ve ever come across. The novel centres around Eva Thorvald, a chef working in the Midwestern United States. However, Eva actually features very little, and all but one of the chapters is seen from the viewpoint of a completely new character.
Essentially it’s a collection of short stories, but J. Ryan Stradal weaves it together in such a skilful way that all of the characters’ lives overlap with Eva’s in some small way. Definitely pick it up if you’re looking for something unique.
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Eat, Pray, Love never really appealed to me, no matter how many times I tried to get into it. But I think Elizabeth Gilbert is such an inspirational woman, so I couldn’t wait to read her latest book, Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear. And, to be honest, I really needed Gilbert’s wisdom, because I’d started to feel creatively depleted.
Big Magic is such an insightful, warm and witty exploration into creativity, and I truly believe everyone could benefit from reading this book – whether you work in a creative industry or not. The chapters are easy to dip in and out of, and many of the principles that Gilbert introduces have completely changed my mindset.
Stiltsville by Susanna Daniel
Stiltsville had been sitting untouched on my bookshelf for a long time, and I only picked it up after getting hooked on the Netflix series Bloodline, which is also set in Florida. And I’m so glad I finally gave it a chance, because it’s such a beautiful, touching story.
Beginning in 1969, Stiltsville follows Atlanta native, Frances, as she moves to Miami for love. It then charts the course of the following three decades, following the ups and downs of marriage, motherhood and friendship. The story stayed with me long after I finished the book, and if you’re a Curtis Sittenfeld fan you’re sure to enjoy Daniel’s writing style.
Sunday’s on the Phone to Monday by Christine Reilly
When I was in New York this spring I had the pleasure of meeting CTP reader Christine Reilly, who has just published her debut novel, Sunday’s on the Phone to Monday. I’m currently halfway through the captivating family love story, and I’m repeatedly blown away by Reilly’s writing.
Every single sentence is beautiful, but this particular line jumped out at me for its honesty: “She gave him all the tools he needed to hurt her, and he did the same. Wasn’t that the logic in love?”
Definitely pick up a copy of Sunday’s on the Phone to Monday if you enjoy poetic writing, eccentric, romantic characters and the complexities of family dynamics.
