5 Books to Escape Into this Summer

If you asked me to describe myself, one of the first things I would say would be that I am a reader. In fact, you can go to my introductory blog post, here, where I even talk about my other blog dedicated to books. But, there is no rule saying I can’t bring my love of books over here, is there?

During this insane year, with COVID-19, I think we could all use a little escapism in our lives, whether it is through movies, music, or books. Especially because this summer is going to look so different. I have been trying to give myself time each night to escape from all the stress I have been feeling. Lately, it has been a lot of TV, because of my peanut-sized attention span, but I also like to dedicate time to reading.

These 5 books are mystical, funny, and heartwarming. There is something on this list for everyone. Whether you like fantasy, mystery, or contemporary fiction, you will find something to read on this list. There are joyous books and melancholy books on this list, and hopefully, you will find your next favorite read here!

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The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Starting this list off with one of my favorites, The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern. After reading this book a couple of years ago, Erin Morgenstern quickly became one of my favorite authors. The prose in this story is beautifully written, and you can’t help but fall deep into the lives of Celia and Marco.

This novel is a gripping fantasy set around a traveling circus that is only open after sunset, and closes before the sun rises. It is full of mystery, magic, and romance. It will absolutely help you forget what is happening around you, if only for a little bit.

Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert

Looking for something a little more joyous? Then I recommend Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert. This author had me laughing and swooning throughout the story, as we watch chronically ill Chloe Brown navigate a blooming relationship with her landlord, Redford Morgan.

This book has romance, humor, and a very plucky cat. The characters are relatable and lovable, you will be rooting for them until the very end of the book.

Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan

Now, this is a book with a little more mystery to it. Clay Jannon, in search of a job, stumbles upon a small bookstore that stays open 24 hours a day. Nothing about this job is ordinary, from his boss to the strange customers that wander into the shop at 3 in the morning.

I don’t want to reveal too much about Mr. Penumbra’s 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan, because the best possible way to read it is completely unaware. I went into it without even reading the summary, and I enjoyed the journey immensely.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a scandalous, romantic story set in old Hollywood. It follows Evelyn Hugo, a Hollywood icon, as she traverses relationships and life under the spotlight.

I have always been interested in stories like this. Stories about movie stars in the golden era of Hollywood. This novel has that and so much more. It warms the heart and feeds the soul, something we could all use right now.

All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

Sick of today? Trying to escape from 2020? A historical fiction novel may be just what you need. All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr is set during the time of World War II, and follows two perspectives, that of Marie Laure and Werner. These two children navigate the ever-changing world they were born into.

This story is a little more melancholy than the rest on this list, but I assure you that it is worth it. Every time I opened this book I immediately fell into the pages, completely oblivious to what was happening around me.

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In my opinion, there is no better way to escape than with art. Film, music, and literature have been fantastic outlets during this time when everything is so uncertain.

I hope the books on this list help in this wild time, and bring some sort of escape.