5 (Unexpected!) Books to Read on the Beach
The month June brings schedule changes, the sun, and SUMMER! The combination of the warmer weather with the slower pace of life puts me in the mindset to relax with a good book (preferably on the beach!). I don’t go to the beach very much anymore, but when I do you can bet that I’ve got a few books to keep me company! Even when I can’t relax in front of the calming ocean waves, I do enjoy reading outside in my backyard or in other nature environments—it just seems to help me relax even more.
With that being said, here are a few unexpected summer reads that would be perfect for the beach, during family vacation, or wherever your ideal reading location is this summer. I use the word unexpected because you’ll find several different genres and styles of books below. Choose something that appeals to you, or break out of your comfort zone!
Authentically, Izzy (Pepper Basham)
A charming and creative romance (that’s also clean!), this book is primary written through emails and text messages between characters. This usually isn’t my favorite format for fiction, but the author draws you in pretty quickly with her fun and quirky characters. And there’s plenty of literary references to please the any bookworm!
The Bookshop (Penelope Fitzgerald)
A quaint seaside town, a widow struggling to keep a bookstore running, and the quirky and colorful characters who either support—or oppose—the venture: what’s not to love? The author balances humor and reality while addressing the serious sides of the business of art and literature, with an unexpected ending that will leave you thinking. And by the way, I did read this for the first time on a beach!
My Heart Cries Out: Gospel Meditations for Everyday Life (Paul David Tripp)
This is a collection of simple poems that deal with magnificent topics like the Gospel, sin, and grace. What better time to read them than when you’re on the beach or in a relaxed summer state? These reflective poems will give you plenty to think about, but there’s also reflection questions and suggested Scripture references for further reading.
Surprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life (C.S. Lewis)
C.S Lewis recounts his early years and traces the theme of “Joy” from his childhood into adulthood until he finally is converted. His attention to detail might come across as overly wordy, but the reader will truly get a sense of Lewis’ struggles in life and how he was drawn back to God. His testimony will encourage you to look for and appreciate “Joy” in your own life.
The Gospel Comes With a House Key (Rosaria Butterfield)
This bestseller offers a radical view of hospitality. If you’re a Christian and concerned about reaching your friends and neighbors around you, this is the perfect place to start. This is also the perfect book to read during the summer, because why not host a neighborhood BBQ or plan ahead for new, hospitable rhythms to implement in the fall? If you read this book in a legalistic way, you’ll be intimidated; instead, take ideas and be inspired by the many ways you can reach those around you.
Are you going to give any of these books a try this summer? What would you add to this list?
Photo by S O C I A L . C U T on Unsplash
