Even though most adults don’t get an endless stretch of summer vacation like schoolchildren do, it’s still nice to imagine extra-long days with more opportunities to read books and lounge in the sun.
Here are some titles that you might like to read if you find yourself with some extra reading time during these last few weeks of summer – and some books to take you out of the ordinary.
For historical fiction fans, try The Essex Serpent by Sarah Perry. Set in Victorian England, the book’s characters explore the tensions between faith and science during the rise of fossil discoveries throughout England. The central character, Cora Seaborne, is vividly drawn, as is the Essex coastline setting.
Murder in Saint-Germain is the latest instalment in the Aimée Leduc mysteries set in Paris by author Cara Black. If you’re new to the series, the first book is called Murder in the Marais. They are fun, fast-paced mysteries with a nice glimpse of contemporary Paris thrown in. Most of the characters feature regularly in each book in the series, and each series entry features a different Parisian arrondissement.
If you missed the buzz about Elena Ferrante’s Neapolitan novels from a couple of years back, then borrow a copy of My Brilliant Friend to see what the fuss is about. Excellent writing combined with strong characters and a memorable setting make this book an unforgettable read to savour. If you enjoyed this book, there are three more to follow.
Don’t forget the New Westminster Public Library has a summer reading challenge for adults, too – why should kids have all the fun? There is still time to grab a booklet at the inquiry desk and complete the challenges, then submit your booklet for the prize draw at the end of summer.
If you need me, my nose will be in a great book this summer. I hope yours will be, too.
