Have You Booked a Trip?
May 23, 2017
There's something about summer that just calls for an adventure. I don't know if it's the warm weather or the feeling in the air, but I start dreaming about packing my bags for a new destination. And if you're a bookworm, you're probably familiar with the age-old question: WHAT BOOKS WILL I BRING? It's a struggle trying to decide 1) how many books I'll pack and 2) what books I'll be in the mood for while I'm there!
It's challenging to guess what I'll want to read, although I can typically predict the type of book that's most likely to catch my eye. But I do love dreaming about the perfect place to read my books! So, every year I put together a post of "themed bags" where I pair summer getaway spots with the books I hope to read while I'm there. Whether I'm at the beach or just in my backyard, here are ten books that will be in my bag this summer.
I want to read something engaging at the beach. Because I'm surrounded by people, I need the book to hold my attention. I definitely don't want a book that requires my undivided attention. After all, you never know when you'll want to grab a snack, take a dip in the water, go for a walk or watch the families nearby. So, ideally, I want it to be easy to put down and pick back up without missing a beat.
The Secret of a Heart Note by Stacey Lee is about a teen who uses her sensitivity to smells to mix perfumes that help others fall in love. It sounds utterly charming! On Second Thought by Kristan Higgins is the story of two sisters who are drawn closer together by loss. It sounds a little heavier, but I'm drawn to the complicated family dynamics. I'm hoping that both will have the perfect balance of levity and depth!
While I'd probably choose the beach first, there are definitely benefits to visiting the mountains in the summer! There's something to be said for the cooler temperatures and quieter days. And unless you're traveling with a big group, there will probably be fewer people, too. You'll find me sipping coffee in my slippers on the back deck, so I'd probably grab a book that's longer (or slower) since there aren't as many distractions.
In The Alice Network by Kate Quinn, a female spy recruited to the real-life Alice Network in France during WWI is brought together with an American socialite searching for her cousin in 1947. And The Whole Way Home by Sarah Creech is about a talented singer whose past comes back to haunt her when she's on the brink of making it big in Nashville. I can't wait to explore the secrets, drama and (hopefully) strong female characters.
At the lake, you'll find me in any number of places: the boat out on the water, sitting on the dock, or swinging in a hammock (if there's one around). Unless it's a slow ride on a pontoon, I likely won't take a book on the boat. I'm not risking the water damage! But on the dock, I'm up for something with a hint of mystery - buried secrets, shocking discoveries, etc. - that will keep me turning the pages until I can find out what happens next.
The Almost Sisters by Joshilyn Jackson is about a woman who uncovers a dangerous secret when she returns to her childhood hometown to put her grandmother's affairs in order and tell her family that she's pregnant. And The Pearl Thief by Elizabeth Wein features a beloved character from Code Name Verity - and the summary mentions an accident, a disappearance and being framed for a crime. Both should have me hooked!
It's not always possible (or affordable) to travel to my heart's content. That's when I turn to my backyard! When I need some fresh air, a little sun or a new perspective, I can just step right outside for a little refresh. Plus, you can just head right back inside when the air conditioning is calling or the bugs get to be too much. And I don't have to worry about predicting my reading mood because my bookshelves are just right there!
Roots and Sky by Christie Purifoy is a memoir - a journey of her first year in a new house. It seems fitting to read about creating a home while sitting right outside of my own. And What to Say Next by Julie Buxbaum is the story of an unlikely friendship between a popular girl and socially isolated boy. I adore this author's books, and I'll read this one on my porch because I won't be able to wait any longer once it arrives.
When we moved into our home five years ago, I remember being thrilled that we had a neighborhood pool. But as more and more homes have been built, the pool has filled up faster than I would have ever imagined. With little kids running around, music playing and adults chatting, it's not always the best environment for reading. I need the same kind of books I'd pick up at the beach - engaging and enjoyable.
Serenity Harbor by RaeAnne Thayne is the newest release in a contemporary romance series that I fell in love with last year. I've grown to love the little town of Haven Point and the new couple introduced with each book. I expect this one will be no different! When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon is a YA romantic comedy about two Indian-American teens whose parents have arranged for them to be married. It looks adorable!
What books will be in your bag this summer?
Any trips already booked?
This post was inspired by this week's Top Ten Tuesday topic, hosted by The Broke and The Bookish.
