Walking into the bookstore in search of the perfect summer beach read can be difficult, we get it. After all, when you're surrounded by thousands of books it's hard to find one that won't be a total dud. That's where we come in. We've compiled a nice little list of Guardian-approved summer beach reads that won't leave you bored or frustrated. Let us know which one is your favorite, or what book you would add to the list!
1. "Brooklyn" by Colm Toibin: This fresh take on a classic 1950s immigrant story is perfect for a lazy summer day on the beach. The story follows Eillis Lacey, a young Irish girl, who moves to America to make her way. If you enjoy coming-of-age stories, then "Brooklyn" is right up your alley. Follow this up with a viewing of the newly dramatized version that hit screens late last year!
2. "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro: This devastating novel might have debuted in 2006, but that doesn't lesson the impact of Kathy, Ruth and Tommy's story. As students at Hailsham, a mysterious boarding school with unspoken secrets, they must figure out how to live their lives to the fullest with the short amount of time they have. The twist? They were born to die. That's all we're going to say...now go read it! If you haven't heard of the book, then you've definitely heard of the movie starring Andrew Garfield, Kiera Knightly and Carey Mulligan.
3. "The Bronze Horseman" by Paullina Simons: This sweeping love story covers the coming of age of Tatiana Metanova, a 17-year-old girl who accidentally bumps into a Soviet soldier, Alexander, on the streets of Stalingrad during WW2. The story is slow, but in the best way possible. As the Battle of Stalingrad begins, Tatiana and Alexander must fight to survive, even as everything around them slowly dies.
4. "1Q84" by Haruki Murakami: Jam-packed with mystery and ethereal undertones, this massive novel will keep you occupied long past the beach, but you won't be complaining. The story is intriguing, following Aomame, a woman who finds that she has entered a parallel existence. Her story and her life constantly align with Tengo's, a ghostwriter whose life is tangled with hers in ways he cannot comprehend. A love story and a mystery, this novel set in Japan will not disappoint.
5. "Outlander" by Diana Gabaldon: Recently made popular by the Stars mini-series, "Outlander" follows Claire Randall as she falls back in time to the 1700s Scottish highlands. This sweeping saga is more than your average time-traveler novel, however. It's political, romantic and perfectly researched. If this classic hasn't already made it onto your bookshelf, reserve it now from the library because we know there will be a wait. (Yeah, it's that good.) Check out the (super amazing) mini-series in the meantime!
6. "Mosquitoland" by David Arnold: This young adult novel is enjoyable for readers of any age! Mim Malone, stranded in Mississippi with her dad and step-mom, boards a greyhound bus and begins an epic summer adventure back to Cleveland to see her ailing mother. The pack of 'weirdos' she meets along the way is both refreshing and fun!
7. "Poemland" by Chelsea Minnis: "Poemland" could be described as a mic drop in paper form. It is a book of poetry that critiques the scene in which it comes from, as well as delves into the details of Minnis's past relationships
8. "No Matter the Wreckage" by Sarah Kay: This book of poetry hits close to home. You might even feel like Kay is reading your thoughts as she tackles everyday topics such as friendship, family and even love. Grab a copy of this small book of poetry and join Kay on the journey of self-acceptance and exploration.
9. "Alice I have Been" by Melanie Benjamin: Discover the story of the original Wonderland heroine, Alice. Readers will experience the ups and downs of a passionate life, filled with mystery, romance, war and tragedy. Nearing her 81st birthday, Alice reflects upon her life, never forgetting the little girl who went down the rabbit hole. You'll definitely want this one in your beach bag!
