Fall is coming: the stores are full of harried parents clutching school supply lists, magazines promising easy weeknight dinners, and scented candles with names like “Snuggly Sweater.” But even though school’s back in session, the forecast is calling for sun — and Cook Library has plenty of choices to help you squeeze every last bit of fun from the summer, no matter your age or interest.
Need a beach read with family, humor, and romance? Try Jill Shalvis’ latest book, LOST AND FOUND SISTERS. Sous-chef Quinn Weller is still mourning the death of her sister when she uncovers a family secret that sends her to the quirky hamlet of Wildstone, California. As she comes to grips with her unexpected “inheritance,” she finds herself navigating a new romance, complications from her old life in Los Angeles, and most importantly, the bonds of sisterhood. Fans of Shalvis’ romance novels will find more of her trademark wit and heat, but it’s the emotional component of this women’s fiction title that really shines.
Want to see out August with a modern take on Golden Age mysteries? Try Anthony Horowitz’s un-put-downable MAGPIE MURDERS, which was reviewed by our own Andrea in June. Bonus: Horowitz also wrote the insanely popular middle grade spy series ALEX RIDER, so you and your tween can compare notes.
Looking for a YA that will soften even the most jaded of hearts? Maureen Goo’s I BELIEVE IN A THING CALLED LOVE stars Desi Lee, an awkward overachiever who’s looking for a foolproof strategy to find true love. Armed with dating advice from Korean dramas, she finds herself in scrape after scrape as she tries to win over her crush, only to discover that some things — like falling in love — rarely go according to plan.
Is your child trying to cram one last title on their summer reading log? Try Shannon Hale’s THE UNBEATABLE SQUIRREL GIRL: SQUIRREL MEETS WORLD. The premise sounds ridiculous (tween girl who has squirrel-like superpowers, including a tail and the ability to talk to the furry little guys, moves to a new town and uncovers a dastardly plot) but the result is charming, funny, and a fresh take on the Marvel Universe. (Squirrel Girl is one of Marvel’s lesser-known superheroes, but not for long.)
Rather watch a movie? Wrap up the summer with a classic family comedy: GALAXY QUEST. The dysfunctional former cast of a Star Trek-style television show must band together when an alien race, believing their show to be a documentary, asks for their help in saving the universe. Don’t worry — you don’t need to be a Trekkie to enjoy this spoof, which includes Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, and the late, great Alan Rickman.
Trying to wrap up the season in grand, delicious style? Check out FOOD 52: ICE CREAM AND FRIENDS. This gorgeous cookbook has more than 60 recipes, including Salted Carmel Milkshakes, Cherry Snow Cones, and Earl Grey Ice Cream with Blackberry Swirl. No matter what the calendar says, ice cream means summer!
What are YOUR tips for holding on to these long, lazy days?
Categories: Books and More
