As the summer draws to an end we reached out to some staff and faculty asking for their best book recommendations for one final read of the summer. Or if you are a fast reader, a few final reads of the summer. Kick back, relax and happy reading!
Still Life by Sarah Winman
Recommended by: President Raymond Rice
“A quasi-historical novel that covers about seven decades of the 20th century, in both England and Italy, with a focus on WWII and its aftermath. Great characters, hilarious (and sometimes tear-jerky) episodes, and best of all a Shakespeare-quoting parrot!” – President Rice
A Court of Thorns and Roses (Series) by Sarah J. Maas
Recommended by: Kayli Malenfant
Kayli notes that these novels may include mature themes and content, and a trigger warning is advised.
Fourth Wing (Series) by Rebecca Yarros
Recommended by: Kayli Malenfant
“I’m reading the newest book in the series right now, it came out this year!” – Kayli Malenfant
The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong
Recommended by: Alana Margeson
A Golden Fury by Samantha Cohoe
Recommended by: Kayli Malenfant
“A hidden gem historical fantasy found for just $1.25 at Dollar Tree, but well worth the read!” – Kayli Malenfant
The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann
Recommended by: Jen Lynds
“This recounts the 1741 wreck of the British warship HMS Wager off the coast of Patagonia.” – Jen Lynds
Verity by Colleen Hoover
Recommended by: Wendi Malenfant
“I just finished Colleen Hoover’s Verity and it was shockingly terrifying and a great read. It’s considered a psychological thriller ”
Poverty by America by Matthew Desmond
Recommended by: Jen Lynds
“This book questions why the United States, one of the wealthiest nations in the world, tolerates so much poverty. Great book for sociology majors!”
Under the Skin: The Hidden Toll of Racism on American Lives and on the Health of Our Nation by Linda Villarosa
Recommended by: Jen Lynds
“Villarosa, a journalist and former executive editor at Essence, investigates how structural racism in medicine contributes to the poor health outcomes of Black Americans. Great for English/journalism/biology majors!”
A Flower Traveled in My Blood by Haley Cohen Gilliland
Recommended by: Jen Lynds
“This is the true story of Argentina’s military dictatorship, which seized power in 1976 and launched a brutal campaign to suppress leftist dissent, including the abduction of hundreds of babies born to disappeared pregnant women. Great for history majors!”
Medicine River: A Story of Survival and the Legacy of Indian Boarding Schools by Mary Annette Pember
Recommended by: Jen Lynds
“An account of Native American boarding schools in the United States, and the legacy of abuse wrought by them in an attempt to destroy Native culture and life. Great for history majors!”
Together. The Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World by Vivek H. Murthy
Recommended by: Tomasz Herzog
“You’ve asked a very difficult question. There are many books worth mentioning here. Since it isn’t possible, let me recommend just two ” Herzog, when asked for recommendations.
The Cruel Prince & The Wicked King by Holly Black
Recommended by: Kayli Malenfant
A Note from Kayli: The Lost Sisters is a companion novella, and The Queen of Nothing wraps up the trilogy.
The Power of the Powerless by Vaclav Havel
Recommended by: Tomasz Herzog
This article gives you a variety of different reading options… Will your next read be a thriller? A drama? A historical fiction novel? Don’t forget to check out your local library for these great reads!
Happy reading!
