Summer is upon us, and it’s time to head outdoors to enjoy this sunny, warm weather! Whether you’re chilling on a beach somewhere, or in your own backyard, you probably want to have some good summer reads to keep you entertained. While there are plenty of new releases out in 2018, there’s something to be said about the classics. Don’t think a classic makes a good summer read? Check out these 5 great recommendations! They’ll have you falling in love with the classics all over again, and lend a new dimension to your summer reading this year.
1. The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway
Although not Hemingway’s best work (we’ll cut him some slack because it was his first novel), The Sun Also Rises is a short and easy read. Most of the story revolves around the San Fermín festival that takes place every summer in Pamplona, Spain. What’s great about this book is that it offers a glimpse into the traditions of a completely different country, and you’ll learn a fair bit about bullfighting culture in Spain.
2. Tender is the Night by F. Scott Fitzgerald
It’s a shame that Tender is the Night is one of Fitzgerald’s less read novels, because it’s a beautifully written book that mirrors somewhat Fitzgerald’s own tumultuous relationship with his wife, Zelda. Travel to the south of France and jump right into the ups and downs of a young couple’s strained marriage. While the book is sad, it’s also one of Fitzgerald’s must underappreciated works—and often touted as his masterpiece!
3. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
Netflix released a new series at the beginning of summer based around Montgomery’s beloved first book, and it probably has lots of people gearing up to read (or re-read) the novel in preparation for watching the show! If you’ve never read Anne of Green Gables, you should definitely consider picking it up this summer. It’s the heart-warming, charming story of a young orphan who ‘accidentally’ gets adopted. Shenanigans ensue, and there’s plenty of imagination to go around!
4. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland should be on your must-read list every summer, because this little book is a heck of a lot of fun to read! If you really think about it, it’s is all about lazy afternoons spent reading, then falling asleep, beneath a tree in your back garden. All of the crazy adventures happen in a dream! So pour yourself an iced-tea, and settle in for a quirky journey down the rabbit hole.
5. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
If you’re looking for a good mystery and romance wrapped up into one this summer, why not pick up Jane Eyre? This gorgeous novel follows the life of a young woman named Jane who goes to work as a governess at Thornfield Hall. Here, she meets her mysterious employer, Mr. Rochester, and complications ensue. There’s a few twists and turns thrown in there that might surprise even the most avid reader!
What are you reading this summer? Share your must-reads with us in the comments section below!