For those of us “too busy to read” during the school year, the summer, with its longer days and relaxing rhythms, is the perfect time to pick up that long-forgotten book. However, if you’re in need of a new summer read, check out our staff recommendations below!
Ali, Writing Coach
This summer I read Unsheltered by Barbara Kingsolver. Kingsolver is one of my all-time favourite authors, but I missed reading this book when it was published in 2018. Unsheltered tells the story of two different families living in the same house, centuries apart. For both families, the house is in shambles as their world—and worldview—seems to crumble around them. The modern-day timeline follows a couple who are taking care of their new grandson and aging father in the wake of Hurricane Sandy; alternatively, the 19th-century timeline follows a struggling young scientist who is punished for his belief in the new work of Charles Darwin. I loved this book for its take on political division, emphasis on community care, and beautifully written sentences. I am looking forward to reading her latest novel, Demon Copperhead, next.
Melodie, Office Manager
I gave my teenage niece Real Mermaids Don’t Wear Toe Rings by Helene Boudreau. It was a fun adventure novel (with friendship drama and a bit of romance, too). The main character Jade made me smile and chuckle. I think it would make a good screenplay; it is a perfect summer read.
Monika, Educational Consultant
I have been reading Ducks, a graphic novel by Kate Beaton, about her life working in the Alberta Oil Sands. The book won Canada Reads this year, so I am not alone in liking it – what I found was interesting was the complexity of how she portrayed life in the camps, and how she looked more to report than to judge.
Bianca, Writing Coach
I highly recommend The Broken Earth Trilogy by N. K. Jemisin. All three of the novels won the Hugo Award for Best Novel, making Jemisin the first author to win the award in three consecutive years, as well as the first to win for all three novels in a trilogy. It is a beautifully written, imaginative, and wildly original story with excellent world-building. The author has a way of setting the scene and creating fantastical worlds without spending too much time on description, moving the story forward with each line. Through these fantasy/science fiction novels, the author covers a wide range of themes, including cultural conflict and oppression. I thoroughly enjoyed all three books, but even if you just end up reading the first book in the series, The Fifth Season, it is a real page-turner with a fantastic ending, so you are sure to be thoroughly satisfied.
Jacqueline, Educational Consultant
Between Two Kingdoms – A Memoir of a Life Interrupted – by Suleika Jaouad
With one of my close friends battling cancer, I picked up this book to better understand her situation. I gained a lot more than an understanding of her world. This inspirational memoir, featured on the New York Times Bestseller list, chronicles a young cancer survivor’s journey from pre-diagnosis to recovery. Suleika’s honest exploration of what it takes to survive illness, loss, and heartbreak and re-emerge on the other side resonates with readers navigating the inevitable transitions of life. Her continual pursuit of personal and professional development amidst extreme physical and mental challenges is inspirational. Her tenacity to develop new kinships and create community while mounting her own battle is remarkable and her introspection of the impact of her illness on those she loves heart-wrenching. Suleika’s survival is a testament to the strength of the unbreakable human will to survive. Between Two Worlds is a transformative read with sensory snapshots that will create lasting impressions.
I also recently finished Songbirds by Christy Lefteri whichhighlights the plight of migrant workers on the island of Cyprus. Beautifully written this sad novel illuminates the danger for women who leave their homes to work abroad. A thought-provoking novel that will open your eyes and challenge your assumptions.
Kate, Writing Coach
On the long flight back from London last week, I enjoyed reading Colditz by Ben Macintyre. The non-fiction account takes place during WW2 when Colditz, a remote German castle, served as a place of imprisonment for many Allied prisoners of war.
Macintyre’s writing style is detailed, and he describes, with empathy, the emotional and psychological impact captivity had on many of the soldiers. I highly recommend this and Macintyre’s other book, A Spy Among Friends, for those who enjoy history!
Melinda, Founder/President
I’m reading Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear. I really enjoyed how it broke things down to the most basic, start small, be consistent level. Instead of broad sweeping generalizations, there were real, practical examples to create change NOW! I think it would be awesome for our students, especially those transitioning this year to post-secondary institutions.
Happy summer and happy reading from Team Options!
