I am one of those people who makes lists in advance of everything. Before I go on vacation, those lists include which books I am intending on bringing. (Yes, I still bring actual, physical books on vacation, and likely always will.) So, for an upcoming trip to the beach, I had to decide which books would warrant a place in my valuable suitcase space. And that list made me think of all of the great beach reads out there.
I personally tend to not like anything too serious on the beach, but really, my tastes vary a lot. Some of the books I have addressed in previous blog posts, like Bridget Jones' Diary (on the April Fools' Day "Modern Funny Reads" post) are also great beach reads.
I am sure I will create many more posts about beach reads (especially as summer creeps closer), so for now, in no particular order, here are 12 recommendations for the beach for (pretty much) every type of reader.
1. For lovers of historical fiction:
I picked this book up to read on the plane one trip to Mexico several years ago. I chose it because of the awesome title. The book takes place during the German occupation of the small English island of Guernsey during World War II, and the eccentric and charming characters left me completely in love with the story. It is written as a series of letters, and celebrates human connection and the love of the written word. “I wonder how the book got to Guernsey? Perhaps there is some sort of secret homing instinct in books that brings them to their perfect readers.”
2. For lovers of romance and tears:
Who hasn't watched this movie? (Oh Ryan Gosling...sigh...) It is quintessential Nicholas Sparks, dripping with romance. I personally miss Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling - especially Ryan Gosling - but if you want sweetness and swooning, you may want to pack this book alongside your vintage-style swimwear and heart-shaped sunglasses.
3. For lovers of mystery and thrillers:
If you have not read this book yet, you are probably in the minority. The edge-of-your-seat, convoluted mystery is a great page-turner if you want something quick-paced while you watch the waves and wonder at the narrator and truth of this plot.
4. For lovers of realistic character fiction:
This novel, featuring an eclectic gathering of characters and a long-buried secret, is both charming and fascinating. The descriptions of setting, particularly in the boardwalk scenes, take me to the beach, and the story is both fun but much heavier than traditional light reading.
5. For lovers of science fiction:
I read this book in between snorkeling while in Jamaica a couple summers ago. It isn't my typical choice, but I was spellbound by the twists and turns that join the characters in this novel throughout the conclusion of the end of the end of the world as we know it. I closed the book with a newfound outlook on the world around me, because, after all, "survival is insufficient."
6. For lovers of the paranormal and vampires:
Dead Until Dark (and the other Sookie Stackhouse books) by Charlaine Harris
These books are such a guilty pleasure of mine. If you are in the mood for light, sexy reads bordering on trashy, then these might be the books for you. The paranormal characters range from were creatures to faeries, but the vampires are where it's at. If you have seen "True Blood", which was based on these books, you know what I'm talking about. Plus, these covers are just plain fun.
7. For lovers of chick-lit:
I like shoes. I have probably way more than I should, but that surely will not stop me from continuing to accumulate more. Now, I certainly do not have the designer shoes that this protagonist does, but if you are interested in the story of a woman struggling with new motherhood, her own identity, and questions about her marriage, peruse this book in one hand while you sip daiquiris with the other.
8. For lovers of short stories and Canadian Lit:
Short stories are great for the beach. You read one, you go for a swim, you come back, read another, then go for lunch...Get where I am going with this? I adore pretty much everything Atwood has written and this collection, following the course of a life and all of the lifetimes that interconnect it. Some of the stories are funny, some are more deeply emotional, but all are just lovely.
9. For lovers of fantasy and magical realism:
This beautiful page-turner connects a middle-age man and the incredible experience he had as a boy. Terrifying, magical, and beautiful, this book connects us to humanity and the importance of stories we tell. Though the ocean you are lying by, hopefully, will be slightly different from the ocean in this book.
10. For lovers of gothic settings and historical connections:
This atmospheric story focuses on a woman, Edie, tracing her mother's past to an old castle, where she was billeted 50 years prior. There, Edie meets the spinster Blythe sisters, who have their own secrets hidden in the chambers and stones of their castle home. By turns romantic and haunting, this is a great read if you would like to take a break from the heat of the sun and tour through chilly hallways by candlelight.
11. For lovers of the classics:
This study of the Jazz Age, fabulous wealth and overwhelming love, is such a great contrast to the quiet lapping of the waves on the sand. The story is intense, and heartbreaking, and quite beautiful. This fast-paced classic deserves a read or a reread. Plus, it is a small book, which means - bonus! - it is easier to pack!
12. For lovers of YA Fiction:
As a girl who loved The Spice Girls throughout my early adolecence, is it any wonder that I love this coming-of-age story of female friendships and empowerment? The first book also takes place during summer vacation, and automatically has a "feel-good, laid-back" vibe. "Love your pals. Love yourself."
What are your favourite beach reads? Any recommendations?
I would love to read your comments, below, or feel free to contact me via my site. And don't forget to subscribe to get my monthly newsletter.