Often, when we think of beach reads they are romances or mysteries. But, why not something with a little more depth that has that engrossing beach read allure? We imagined we were a customer browsing our staff pick shelves looking for a book to accompany them on a day of sun-soaked relaxation. We believe these seven novels would be great companions along with a towel and a bottle of sunscreen.
Mouth to Mouth by Antoine Wilson
Andrea's Pick: A story of altruism, chance and deception. The rescue of a swimmer leads down a creepy road when the rescuer wheedles himself into the life of the man he rescued. The plot is revealed to an old college friend where it has a feeling of exaggeration, and maybe untruth. A good page-turner with an interesting premise.
Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau
Roxanne's Pick: Many times, people come into Bookstore1 yearning for a book that’s not bleak or trauma filled and Mary Jane is the ticket for a fun, but poignant walk down memory lane. For people who came of age in the 1970’s, this book is a retrospective blast involving all the kitsch of the ‘70’s...from Bonne Bell lip gloss and Aqua Net hairspray, to starch ironed sheets, just to name a few.
Once Upon a Wardrobe by Patti Callahan
Melanie's Pick: 8 year old, sickly George begs his sister Meg, a student at Oxford, to find and ask C.S. Lewis where the idea of Narnia came from. This charming novel is a testament to the power of stories. Those who enjoy The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe will feel like they are wrapped in a warm blanket before a lovely fire as they are transported to the magical world of Narnia.
This Time Tomorrow by Emma Straub
Nora's Pick: Straub, author of the hugely popular All Adults Here and The Vacationers, tells a charming, nostalgic tale of an upper Westside father and daughter in search of more time together. Straub’s warmth, humor, and psychological perceptiveness make this a sweet, funny read with a dash of light hearted time travel thrown into the mix.
The Girl From the Channel Islands by Jenny Lecoat
Elsie's Pick: Jenny Lecoat's book transports you to World War 11 and the significant role of the Channel Islands in the war effort. Isolated from the allies, in the middle of the English Channel, brave against the German invaders.
The Judge's List by John Grisham
Doug's Pick: Not a regular Grisham reader, but captivated by a brief blurb. Had to read it! The Judge's List convinces readers how even the high and mighty can act lawful and yet be sociopathic. My niece Iris is studying forensics, and particularly serial killers. Ready for this one, Iris?
The Woman in the Purple Skirt by Natsuko Imamura
Georgia's Pick: An odd little novel of obsession that focuses on workers in a Japanese hotel. Enjoyable quick read. Do we ever really know who the woman in the purple skirt is?