A Summer Essential: Creating a Summer Reading List

I read year round, but there’s an undeniable itch to dive into a pile of books at the start of summer. Why I want to read more in summer than any other time of the year is something I have contemplated. There are other times in the year I think of great reading opportunities. For example, in the fall I get excited about the thought of reading curled up by the fire, and of snow days stuck inside with a great book. But nothing compares to the thoughts of enjoying a lazy summer afternoon with my nose in a great book.

I know why summer equates to reading like no other season; I spent my summers growing up devouring books. Being out of school meant special family vacations, but it also allowed me to read as much as I wanted without the interruption of school or homework.

With the juggle of parenting and work that being a responsible adult presents, my summer reading time has never been what it once was in my youth. This summer, with work, kids, a new home to get in order, and a wedding to plan, it could mean an even bigger challenge to my reading time. Instead, I am planning to read even more than I did last summer. It’s a lofty goal with all I have in my life, but it’s the one thing I want for myself this summer, and I am going to make it happen.

As part of my summer reading plan, I will also be writing book reviews regularly to help my readers find great reads for their summer list as well. I can’t wait to share books I have read in my past as well as ones at the top of my must-read list for the summer. To start off my summer reading, here’s an updated list of books I am looking forward to reading. It might take longer than the summer or I could find myself reading these quicker than expected, adding more to the list as I discover other books for my must-read list.

Book in hand, I am kicking off a fun summer with Sean and the kids.

What about you?

What’s at the top of your to do list this summer?