Summer Reading List for 2018: A Curated Selection of Must-Read Books

This summer marks the arrival of a rich array of great reads, catering to diverse genres and styles. As we emerge from one of the most unusual winters on record, refreshing our minds with these captivating tales promises to be a delightful experience. From memoirs to fiction, graphic novels, translations, and beyond, there's something for every reader to enjoy.

Top Picks from 2018

Ruby Roy and the Murder in the Falls - By Kristen Arnett

Join Ruby Roy in her compelling mystery, a perfect blend of adventure and intrigue. Kristen Arnett’s latest work is a thrilling exploration of the human condition, wrapped in a suspenseful narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

With Teeth - By Kristen Arnett

Explore the darker side of human relationships in this captivating novel. Arnett’s sharp observations and evocative prose will immerse you in a world filled with tension and emotional complexity.

Somebody’s Daughter - By Ashley C. Ford

This memoir offers a poignant and personal journey filled with honesty and vulnerability. Ashley Ford explores her experiences and the challenges she faced, making it a must-read for fans of raw, unapologetic storytelling.

Islands of Abandonment - By Cal Flyn

Step into the mysterious and haunting world of Islands of Abandonment, where Cal Flyn’s vivid descriptions and immersive prose take readers on a journey through the remote and isolated landscapes of North Wales. Flyn seamlessly blends natural history with personal reflection, creating a mesmerizing reading experience.

Sevastopol - By Emilio Fraia

Emilio Fraia provides a unique perspective on the 19th-century battle of Sevastopol. This historical novel combines detailed research with a gripping narrative that captures the essence of war and human resilience.

The Other Black Girl - By Zakiya Dalila Harris

Uncover the complexities of identity and race with The Other Black Girl. Zakiya Dalila Harris weaves a suspenseful tale that challenges preconceptions and delves into the nuances of racial dynamics in the workplace.

Future Feeling - By Joss Lake

Step into the future with Joss Lake’s avant-garde science fiction novel. Future Feeling is a thought-provoking journey that explores potential technological advancements and their impact on society. Lake masterfully blends speculative elements with a deep exploration of human emotions and relationships.

One Last Stop - By Casey McQuiston

One Last Stop is a charming novel that explores the ups and downs of romantic love. Casey McQuiston’s light-hearted yet emotionally resonant story will leave you with a warm feeling and a smile on your face.

Las Biuty Queens - By Ivan Monalisa Ojeda

Ivan Monalisa Ojeda’s Las Biuty Queens is a vibrant and colorful exploration of the Latinx experience. This novel delves into issues of identity, youth culture, and the struggles and triumphs of coming of age in a world of constant change.

Battles in the Desert - By José Emilio Pacheco

Discover the tragic and poignant stories in José Emilio Pacheco’s collection of short stories. With masterful writing, Pacheco shines a light on the complexities of human emotions and the impact of history on the individual.

It’s Life As I See It: Black Cartoonists in Chicago 1940–1980 - Edited by Dan Nadel

This compelling collection showcases the work of African American cartoonists who made significant contributions to the world of comics. Through their diverse styles and voices, these artists provide a unique glimpse into the cultural and social landscape of Chicago during a transformative period.

Hola Papi - By JP Brammer

JP Brammer’s Hola Papi is a fun and engaging coming-of-age story. Brammer’s colorful and relatable narrative will resonate with anyone who has ever grappled with their identity and the quest for self-acceptance.

Dear Senthuran - By Akwaeke Emezi

Akwaeke Emezi’s Dear Senthuran is a novel that challenges the boundaries of traditional storytelling. Through multiple characters and perspectives, Emezi explores themes of identity, duality, and the experiences of the LGBTQ community.

Everyone Knows Your Mother Is a Witch - By Rivka Galchen

Rivka Galchen’s Everyone Knows Your Mother Is a Witch is a haunting and surreal tale that invites readers to question reality. This novel masterfully combines elements of magical realism with a poignant exploration of family, memory, and the past.

The Woman in the Purple Skirt - By Natsuko Imamura

Step into the world of The Woman in the Purple Skirt, a novel that delves into the complexities of one woman’s journey. Natsuko Imamura’s lyrical prose and powerful narrative will draw you into a world that is both timeless and modern.

Animal - By Lisa Taddeo

Animal is a gripping and revealing exploration of modern life through the lens of intimate relationships. Lisa Taddeo’s raw and unflinching narrative offers a deep dive into the nuances of human desires and motivations.

Everything Now: Lessons from the City-State of Los Angeles - By Rosecrans Baldwin

Rosecrans Baldwin’s book, Everything Now, is a fascinating look at the city-state of Los Angeles through the lens of history, pop culture, and contemporary urban life. Baldwin’s insightful commentary and keen observations make this a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of a unique city.

The Great Mistake - By Jonathan Lee

Jonathan Lee’s The Great Mistake is a compelling narrative that explores a pivotal moment in Australian cricket history. This book offers a nuanced and personal perspective on the infamous underarm incident, shedding light on the players’ experiences and the cultural impact of the event.

Migratory Birds - By Mariana Oliver

Mariana Oliver’s Migratory Birds is a poetic and moving exploration of migration, both physical and emotional. Oliver’s evocative prose and insightful reflections on the human experience make this book a profound and reflective read.

Filthy Animals - By Brandon Taylor

Brandon Taylor’s Filthy Animals is a moving and introspective novel that addresses the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community, particularly queer Black individuals. Taylor’s compassionate and powerful narrative delves into the complexities of identity, acceptance, and belonging.

But What If We’re Wrong - By Chuck Klosterman

Chuck Klosterman’s But What If We’re Wrong is a thought-provoking collection that invites readers to question the nature of reality and our place in the world. With exploring questions ranging from gravity to cultural representation, the book offers a unique and engaging reading experience.

Steve Smith’s Men - By Geoff Lemon

Geoff Lemon’s Steve Smith’s Men is a compelling memoir that delves into the 2018 Cape Town incident involving Australian cricket. Lemon’s personal and insightful narrative provides a rare and intimate look into the events that unfolded, offering a deeper understanding of the players and their motivations.

Making the Arab World - By Fawaz Gerges

Fawaz Gerges’s Making the Arab World is a profound and detailed exploration of the Arab world, focusing on the lives and ideas of two influential figures - Gamal Abdul Nasser and Sayyid Qutb. Gerges’s meticulous research and insightful analysis make this book an essential read for anyone interested in the history and politics of the region.

Embark on a journey of discovery and reflection with these remarkable books, and savor the joy of reading this summer. Happy reading!