June 15, 2025, 9:22 a.m. ~ Summer ~ booktok ~ reading

The Ultimate Guide to Curating Your Perfect Summer Reading List

Summer’s almost here. For a lot of us, that means planning time off, soaking up the sun, exploring new places — and getting lost in a good book. The right reading list can make your vacation even better, whether you’re stretched out on a beach towel, sipping coffee at a city café, or listening to the birds from a cabin porch. Let’s break down some simple ways to build your perfect summer reading stack.

Where you’re going should help shape what you read. Think about it: a breezy beach novel hits differently than a deep historical saga when you’re sunbathing. Here are some quick suggestions:

Beach Getaway:

Go for light, fun reads — romantic comedies, fast-paced thrillers, or witty fiction you can pick up and put down between swims. Try Beach Read by Emily Henry or The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren.

City Adventure:

Pick something tied to the culture or history of the city you’re visiting. A local memoir, a novel set in that city, or a book by a hometown author can make your trip feel richer. If Paris is on your list, check out The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles.

Cabin Retreat:

Slow down with lyrical fiction or nature writing. Books that match the quiet pace of the outdoors are perfect. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens is a classic for this kind of getaway.

Keep It Balanced

A good reading list has variety. Mix it up so you don’t get bored halfway through your trip. Pack a blend of genres — maybe a novel, a memoir, a mystery, and a classic. Here’s an example lineup:

Fiction: The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Thriller: The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

Classic: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Don’t Overthink It — Get Recommendations

Not sure what to pick? There’s no shame in borrowing ideas:

• Ask around: Friends, family, coworkers — everyone loves giving book suggestions.
• Follow book blogs and podcasts: They’ll point you to the latest buzz and hidden gems.
• Join online communities: Goodreads, Reddit, and Instagram’s #bookstagram crowd are goldmines for fresh ideas.
• Use your library or e-reader apps: Digital services like Libby or Kindle Unlimited make it easy to take a whole bookshelf with you, no luggage fees required.

Final Thoughts

A carefully chosen reading list can make your vacation feel even more personal and memorable. Think about where you’re going, mix up your genres, and don’t be afraid to try something new. Most importantly, pick books that genuinely excite you.

Here’s to lazy afternoons, page-turning nights, and stories that stay with you long after summer ends. Happy reading!