If you are anything like us, then the beach can be a transformative place. There is nothing like spending a summer Friday cracking open new books, and breathing in the fresh ocean air. If this isn’t something you have already done, then you can thank us later, because this is the most superior way to explore new books. So, our editors have rounded up their favorite books to take to the beach this summer, and the list is not going to disappoint!
The Vanishing Half – Brit Bennett
This story revolves around two identical twin sisters that have found themselves living very different, very separate lives in their adulthood, but the book weaves through time, telling their stories and the stories of their family from the 1950s to the 1990s. The story and the characters are exceptionally written and provide an emotional, captivating tale about race, family, sisterhood, and the consequences of decisions.
The Enneagram of Belonging – Christopher L. Heuertz
If you’re new to the teachings of the Enneagram, I would first suggest Heuretz’s book, The Sacred Enneagram. If you’re familiar with this practice, then I’ve got to be honest—I grew to hate the enneagram. Not because I didn’t want to face what it taught me about myself, but because of what modern society turned it into. In this piece, Chris Heuretz deconstructs the frilly-instagram-able-swipe-through-able “shorthand psycho slang” that modern society (and honestly, the modern church) made of this ancient & sacred principal. I am enamored by the way Heuretz gracefully peels back the layers & brings readers into the history behind the teachings of the Enneagram. Rather than barring readers behind common personality patterns, this book opens readers up to rich & meaningful growth beyond one’s dominant type.
The Silent Patient – Alex Michaelides
Once I started this book, I finished it in less than 24 hours – I was hooked! After a painter is found to have killed her husband, she spends the next few years in complete silence, not saying a word to anyone. A psychotherapist arrives at the center she stays at and is determined to get her to tell her side of the story, and from there, the twists never end. If you like books that keep you on the edge of your seat, this is a must-read!
Little Fires Everywhere – Celeste Ng
After hearing people rave about the Hulu television series, I knew I wanted to get my hands on this book before I spent a weekend binging the show! Once I began reading, it was almost impossible for me to put down. Celeste Ng authors a riveting novel that brings readers in to conversations on race, harbored secrets, identity, and motherhood. The plot to this novel was tragic, yet beautiful, and left me wanting more after I finished every chapter. And… I will be one to say, I loved the book more than the show! I am so glad I read it first!
Boundaries – Henry Cloud
If you struggle with boundaries like we do, then this book is a must have. Not only will it teach you when it’s appropriate to say yes, and say no, but it will guide you on how to actually do that. The book is such an easy but transformative read for any person on a self improvement journey.