When summer rolls around you probably have a list of fun things you want to do. Head to the beach. Play some golf. Host a barbecue. Go to a concert. And, perhaps, read some great books. 

If you’re looking for some books to add to your summer reading list, check out this list. 

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

This is Delia Owen’s first solo novel, but you may know her name from a book she co-wrote with her husband, Cry of the Kalahari. Her solo book is a mystery and coming of age story all in one. It is set in the 1950s and tells the story of Kya Clark, a girl living in rural North Carolina. Where the Crawdads Sing would make a great book club read as you’ll want to talk to friends about it after you are done reading it.

The Read-Aloud Family: Making Meaningful and Lasting Connections with Your Kids by Sarah Mackenzie

In today’s world do you sometimes find that you and your kids are busy beyond belief? Do you and your children spend lots of time on your phones or iPads, and do you find that you’re missing that chance to connect with each other? You’re not the only one. Sarah Mackenzie shares a strategy she uses with her six children – reading aloud. Sarah shares how reading aloud can help you and your children – and it’s not just for toddlers. Reading aloud as a family is for children of all ages according to Sarah. 

On the Come Up by Angie Thomas

Angie Thomas wrote The Hate U Give, which became a bestseller and a popular movie, and now brings you On the Come Up. In her second novel, Thomas introduces you to Bri, a 16-year old rapper, who writes a song that goes viral – and not for the right reasons. While this book is considered “young adult fiction”, it’s a great read for adults, too.

The Lost Man by Jane Harper

Jane Harper brings you this mystery novel set in remote Australia. The Lost Man is the story of the mysterious death of Cameron, and his brothers Bub and Nathan, who meet up after his death. This is a great thriller that you will find yourself not wanting to put down.

I’ll Be Gone in the Dark: One Woman’s Obsessive Search for the Golden State Killer by Michelle McNamara

This is not a new book for 2019, but if you are a fan of the true crime genre and have not read this one yet, do so. Michelle McNamara, a true crime journalist, was writing this book at the time of her death, and it is credited with helping to catch the Golden State Killer. This book provides a look at Michelle’s obsession with this killer and a look at the devastation his crimes left behind.

Educated: A Memoir by Tara Westover

This is another book that was released in 2018 but continues to be on the New York Times’ Best Sellers list. Tara Westover lived in Idaho, the daughter of survivalists, and did not go to school until she was 17 years old. She tells how her desire to learn transformed her life. You learn about this courageous woman and the sacrifices she made to get where she is today.

What’s on your reading list this summer? Will you be reading one of these books or is there something else you can’t wait to read? Share your book choices! It’s always helpful to learn what others are reading.