Books to Shake Off that June Gloom

If you are looking for some fun summer reading (Chick Lit type stuff – sorry guys) I have two recommendations for you right off the bat.  Both have been out for a couple years – the good news being they are in paperback now (that’s right - no excuse for you not to get a copy if by chance you haven’t read them).  So if you haven’t yet had the pleasure and you like this genre of books (and I do hate how some people turn up their noses at the mere thought, as if the term “Chick Lit” is so offensive – call it Light Summer Reading if it makes you feel better) then these are a couple you don’t want to miss. 

They are easy-to-read, entertaining stories that pull you along all the way through – perfect for an afternoon stretched out in the sun (does anyone with kids do that anymore??) or for one of those times when you want to curl up with a good book.  In fact, I liked them so much I have actually re-read them (a couple times).  And coming from this Zen Mama Wannabe, who feels so stretched on time that I barely have enough of it (or energy for that matter) to read as it is, you should know I wouldn’t waste my time reading something twice unless it was worth it.  These are. 

I have more serious summer reading on my nightstand, just waiting for me to delve into, but somehow these are the ones that call out to me -- even just recently when I wanted to read a quick chapter of something fun before I crawled under the covers and went to sleep.  Of course, a few pages always turns into many chapters (when you are reading books that keep you drawn into the story and plot) and last night it was well after midnight (nearly 2 hours later) before I realized what had happen.  If you too love it when that happens, I don’t think these will disappoint.

This is the first of several books Emily Giffin has written and by far her best.  What makes Something Borrowed exceptionally good is that it takes an interesting premise (the main character has done something really bad – ok, I’ll be blunt – it is one of the cardinal sins a friend can do to another) and yet makes her likeable, to the point you are rooting for her from the very beginning.  Think about it: from a writing stand point, that is really hard to do.  The story flows seamlessly – and what is fun for those of us who lived it, there are 80’s references (like Forenza sweaters – remember those???) that make you nod your head right along with them. 

 

Sophie Kinsella has written SO many good books (you must check out the Shopaholic series, because that is what she became known for – and please go in order) and yes, I have them all, but this one is especially delightful and a particular favorite of mine.  Heard a while back they were making it into a movie.  Not sure if that is still in the works, although it could easily be great on the big screen if done right, but the book is A+. With snappy dialogue and some laugh out loud funny parts, you will see why this author is top of her game right now -- and why Can You Keep a Secret? is one you can read over and over again. (I have).

Lastly, I’ll throw in one I just heard about: Mating Rituals of the North American WASP.  It JUST came out, and sounds like it could be cute.  I've only just started it, but am finding I don't want to put it down - a good sign, and one by which I judge all my books.  The story seems predictable, but cute – and sometimes a little lighthearted “cuteness” is what you need, especially when the weatherman predicts overcast days of "June Gloom" as they call it here in California, with no end in sight.

And if you have any light, fun recommendations for me, I’d love to hear them.  This Zen Mama Wannabe is always on the lookout for a good read -- and a little sunshine!

Comments

[callieandbatido]

I haven't ready any of these but will check them out. I am always looking for some light summer reading, AKA Chick Lit. Thanks for the recommendations.

[CarolinaGal]

Heading off for a 6-hour flight -- have already gone out and purchased your recommendations so I something entertaining to do on the plane. (Actually I've already read the Sophie Kinsella one - LOVE HER!) Hope the others are just as good! :)

[Momof3]

Another book you should look for to read is "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society". Fascinating story and technique of telling it. Hard to believe it's all fiction. (Not the situation, but the way it is told.) As well as the authors, from what little is told on the book jacket.....Anyway, I highly recommend it. I could hardly put it down.

[LarkLady]

I've been home sick this week, and once my headache mellowed enough to read, I've gone through several books. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society was lots of fun! I read first the youth edition and then the "real" edition of Three Cups of Tea -- the first when my head and eyes weren't up to anything more than that, and then the full version to get all the details.

Then I read Ann B. Ross's Miss Julia Speaks Her Mind, the first of a series now 10 books long that had been recommended to me by friends. Although I have to confess I've never known anyone quite like Miss Julia, I took a liking to her and enjoyed the book and her antics (which were many!).

I think I'll be back at work tomorrow, but I'll miss the hours of uninterrupted reading time!