online therapy for millennials and gen z in Virginia and DC

Ah, summer. The season of beach trips, cookouts, and a seemingly endless parade of poolside selfies. For many of us, summer is also the perfect time to dive into that reading list we’ve been curating since January. You know the one – the list of books we promised ourselves we’d get through once the weather turned warmer and we finally had some free time. The books we’re constantly adding to our TBR on Good Reads? Or even the ones we’ve ordered or purchased in store, collecting dust by our bedsides? Yeah, those.

But why is summer such a prime time for reading? Let’s explore why this sun-soaked season pairs so perfectly with the written word and how you can make the most of your summer reading adventures.

Escaping the Heat with a Good Book

First things first, let’s talk about the heat. As much as we may love the feeling pf sun on our skin, or being outside in general, sometimes it’s just too hot to do anything but retreat indoors. And what better way to pass the time in an air-conditioned haven than by getting lost in a gripping novel? Whether you’re lounging in a hammock or on top of a blanket with a cold drink or sprawled out in front of a fan, a good book can make those sweltering days feel a little less oppressive.

Travel Without Leaving Home

Summer often brings with it a desire to travel and explore new places. But let’s be real – not all of us can afford a month-long trip to Europe or an all-inclusive Caribbean vacation. Luckily, books offer the perfect escape. They allow us to journey to far-off lands, experience different cultures, and embark on thrilling adventures, all from the comfort of our own home. Whether you’re diving into the magical world of Harry Potter or unraveling a mystery in a London-based thriller, books have the power to transport us anywhere we want to go.

The Perfect Companion for Outdoor Adventures

Of course, summer isn’t just about staying indoors. It’s also the ideal time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. And guess what? Books make excellent companions for those sunny adventures. Heading to the beach? Bring along a lighthearted romance or a page-turning thriller. Going on a glamping trip? Pack a gripping fantasy or a thought-provoking memoir. There’s something incredibly satisfying about reading a great book with the sounds of nature as your background music.

Reconnecting with Our Inner Child

Remember those long summer breaks from school when we had all the time in the world to read for fun? As adults, we rarely get such luxuries. But summer has a way of rekindling that childhood magic. With a little effort, we can carve out time to indulge in our favorite pastime once again. Whether it’s revisiting childhood favorites like “The Babysitter’s Club” or finally getting around to that bestselling series everyone’s been talking about, summer is the perfect time to reconnect with our inner bookworm.

Creating Your Own Book Club

Reading doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. In fact, it can be a great way to connect with friends. Why not start a summer book club? Choose a few books, set up regular meetups (virtual or in-person), and discuss your thoughts over iced coffees, lemonade, or margaritas. It’s a fun way to stay social, share different perspectives, and perhaps discover new favorite authors.

If you’re looking for inspiration, check out the archive book list from Smart Brown Girls, Black Girls Read Book Club, Mocha Girls Read, or Reese’s Book Club to start.

Tips for a Successful Summer Reading

To make the most of your summer reading, here are a few tips:

1. Set Realistic Goals:

Don’t overwhelm yourself with an overly ambitious reading list. Aim for a mix of light reads and more challenging ones. And reading for a few minutes a day, or a few pages a day is just fine. No need to overwhelm yourself with something that is supposed to be fun!

2. Get Comfy:

Find a cozy spot in your home or garden where you can relax and read without distractions.

3. Unplug:

Set aside some time each day to disconnect from your devices and immerse yourself in your book of choice. It’ll feel good to do this one thing for you.

4. Explore Different Genres:

Summer is a great time to experiment with new genres or authors you haven’t tried before.

What I'm Reading This Summer

I’m a total bookworm. Reading is and has always been my escape, and one of the ways I relax. I’m excited to share my summer reading list with you! Here are the books I plan to dive into:

**“Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers” by Jesse Sutanto**
**“A Love Song for Ricki Wilde” by Tia Williams**
**“This Could Be Us” by Kennedy Ryan**

Fiction:

1. “This Could Be Us” by Kennedy Ryan - This book is #2 in the Skyland Series. I thoroughly enjoyed “Before I Let Go” last year, “Reel” earlier this year, and Kennedy Ryan’s style of romance writing in general. Really looking forward to reading this on the beach.

2. “A Love Song for Ricki Wilde” by Tia Williams - Similar to Kennedy Ryan, I have read two of Tia Williams books, “Seven Days in June” and “The Perfect Find.” This is another beach/poolside romance I’m excited to dig into.

3. “Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers” by Jesse Sutanto - I just finished this book and oh my gosh! I laughed, I teared up, I had no idea where the book was going at times, and I loved every minute. I must check out more of Jesse Sutanto’s work moving forward.

**ADHD for Smart Ass Women by Tracy Otsuka**
**How to Keep House While Drowning** **by kc davis**

Non-Fiction

4. ADHD for Smart Ass Women by Tracy Otsuka - Tracy Otsuka is an ADHD coach who specializes in women with the disorder. As a woman with ADHD who works with clients with ADHD, I am excited for this one.

5. How to Keep House While Drowning by kc davis - A short and highly accessible read about taking care of your home when overwhelmed or working with neurodivergence. I listened to this book earlier last month and my mind was blown by davis’s reframing and techniques. Five stars, no notes.

6. Better Sex through Mindfulness by Lori A. Brotto - I’ll be listening to this during my morning walks, another mindfulness practice I follow and have written about.

Summer and reading go together like popsicles and sprinklers at auntie’s house. It’s a season that invites us to slow down, explore new worlds, and reconnect with the joy of getting lost in a good book. So, grab your reading list, find a sunny spot (or a shady one), and dive into a summer filled with stories. After all, the best journeys are often found in the pages of a book. Happy summer, and happy reading!