Seven Inspiring Summer Reads
Summer is the season of transformations, and the most powerful changes stem from priceless literary adventures that feature strong female leads and precious lessons of empowerment. We rounded up the seven summer reads that will inspire you to conquer the world, achieve your goals and continue the inspirational hustle you live by – so yes, add these to your pom-pom-adorned tote bag ASAP.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Forgo your obsession with Kourtney Kardashian’s revenge body and discover your new female idol: Evelyn Hugo. This sensational story about an aging Hollywood starlet and the magazine reporter she hires to pen her tale will leave you in bouts of chills, thrills and tears (this is Taylor Jenkins Reid, after all). Easily the most swoon-worthy summer tale in years, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo will be the book on your bookshelf you’ll reach for time and time again.
New People by Danzy Senna
If 2017 has taught us anything, it’s that knowledge, information and an understanding of all the facts is more important than ever. Maria is planning her dream wedding with her college sweetheart…except she is daydreaming of another man, a poet, and their romance is completely forbidden. A daring exploration of class and social etiquette, New People will paint broad strokes of vibrancy to every reader’s cultural understanding of the world.
The Lake Effect by Erin McCahan
Inspiring YA alert! If this beloved genre is the way to your spirit, then this one will leave your heart light and brimming with optimism. Briggs Henry ditches his suburban surroundings for a summer of socializing and working a fun gig in Lake Michigan…except, that gig involves being dragged around to funerals, and it’s anything but glamorous. A darling teenage romance and coming-of-age-tale, The Lake Effect is summer reading at its finest.
Refuge by Dina Nayeri
If you need a distraction from the divided world we live in, this is the inspiring diversion you’ll never want to put down. A tale true to its title, Refuge is a daring and beautifully written tale of daughter who transplants her entire life, hopes and dreams to a new land…while leaving behind her beloved father. From culture shock and spirit-crippling social rejection to the sharp pangs of homesickness, this stunning read paints a vibrant portrait of the heartache and realities that come with being a refugee. Readers will be left with a higher level of acceptance for everyone we share this planet with — especially those who are different than us.
Light Radiance Splendor by Leah Chyten
If you’re looking for an inspirational spiritual experience, Light Radiance Splendor will surely leave an imprint on your soul. The Divine Shekinah is on a mission to restore light to the world in the face of endless injustices dominating humanity – but is it too late? If you’re totally exhausted with the universe in 2017 (raises hand), this read will restore all hope.
A New Model by Ashley Graham
Are you tired of the waves of self-criticism that ripple through your body after five minutes on Instagram? Are you need of inspiration that will leave you embracing yourself (exactly as you are)? Our woman crush forever and voluptuously perfect supermodel Ashley Graham delivers a collection of essays that will connect every reader with better self-confidence. Unleash your fierce feminist and continue the inspiring movement of demolishing harmful body image ideals perpetuated by society – and it all starts with reading the first page.
The People We Hate at the Wedding by Grant Ginder
Are you totally exhausted from wedding season? Do you simply need an escape that will make you maniacally laugh out loud and inspire you to forget about all your social woes? This wedding-centric treat is the ultimate trifecta of distraction, entertainment and refreshing family drama you won’t be able to get enough of. Two siblings reunite to celebrate the nuptial of their half-sister Eloise in a flashy London ceremony (only, there is much that lurks beneath the sparkly façade of perfection). Outrageously funny and deliciously rich in drama, Grant Ginder will absolutely be your go-to author after turning the last page of The People We Hate at the Wedding.
