Spring Break is right around the corner and while you’re stocking up on bathing suits and cute cover-ups, don’t forget to grab some beach reads! One of the best parts about break is lounging on the beach and getting sucked into an excellent book. Jumping into a new novel can relax you and take your mind to an entirely different place, which is essentially the point of being at the beach or on vacation in general. It also passes time, so you won’t realize how much time you’ve been frying in the sun (remember some protective sunscreen!). You’ll be tanned and relaxed- win-win. Here’s a list of fun and easy beach reads!
1. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) – Mindy Kaling
If you’re looking for a comical and smart beach read look no further. Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns) offers a unique look inside the mind of the mega successful actress and writer, Mindy Kaling. In this memoir she shares hilarious tales from her childhood and witty anecdotes about her rise to fame. It’s very clear why this novel, released in 2011, quickly became a best seller. Mindy also recently revealed she’s writing a sequel, so keep an eye out!
2. Divergent Series: Divergent, Insurgent, Allegiant – Veronica Roth
With the new movie being released in a little under a week, what better way to prepare for it than to read the series? Plus, it’s always better to read the books before watching the film-adaptations. Divergent is a captivating action packed series set in a futuristic society about a girl willing to test the limits. Once you start this series, you will not be able to put it down. If you loved The Hunger Games, this series is for you.
3. The Cuckoo’s Caling – J.K. Rowling
Published under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith, Rowling published this crime thriller in early 2013. It’s the story of a private detective investigating a supermodels death and the world surrounding her. Naturally, this novel is well written and the mystery is cleverly thought out. You definitely don’t want to miss this.
4. One More Thing: Stories and Other Stories – B.J. Novak
B.J. Novak has been an obsession of mine ever since his days on The Office, and his writing and directing is nothing short of excellent. One More Thing: Stories and Other Stories is a smart collection of sixty-three entertaining stories written from Novak’s perspective. The genius comedian touches on a variety of subjects, and it’s very interesting to see what he’ll throw at you as the novel progresses. The book is surprising and witty, and although you might have to stumble your way through some of the stories, the collection is undeniably unique and creative.
5. Orange Is the New Black: My Year in a Women’s Prison – Piper Kerman
The hit Netflix series Orange Is the New Black is based off of this memoir by Piper Kerman. If you’re a fan of the show then you already know the story of Piper’s fifteen-month stint in prison for drug charges. This book gives a really interesting look into the American prison system. Kerman incorporates this knowledge with a hilarious voice, so this is a must-read!
6. Uganda Be Kidding Me – Chelsea Handler
Another great beach read is Chelsea Handler’s new book Uganda Be Kidding Me. Just released on March 11, 2014, this book is the book everyone is talking about. Handler shares humorous travel anecdotes, and it will give you a few good laughs while reading.
7. My Korean Deli – Ben Ryder Howe
My Korean Deli is a hilarious memoir about Ben Ryder Howe’s days working at deli in Brooklyn. Howe infuses culture, humor, family, and thoughtfulness into this well-written novel. It’s a reflection of his struggle to find himself while working at a successful literary magazine and working at a deli. This is a unique memoir that will keep you interested and make you laugh.
8. The Fault in Our Stars – John Green
The New York Times best seller The Fault in Our Stars is a compelling novel about cancer and love. This is such a well-written novel, and it will have you laughing and crying throughout. You should definitely read this novel before the movie comes out in June 2014. It’s predicted to be a huge box office success, and after reading you’ll understand why.
9. The Husband’s Secret – Liane Moriarty
The Husband’s Secret, a New York Times best seller, follows the life of three women dealing with difficult situations like divorce and lost loved ones. However, Moriarty turns heavy subject matter into an enjoyable, daring, smart novel. Moriarty has a unique voice that separates this novel from any other best sellers.
10. Looking for Alaska – John Green
Once you read your first John Green novel, you’ll realize why it’s so hard to stay away from his books. In his debut novel Looking for Alaska, Green tells the story of a boy, seeking something more, that meets a girl at boarding school that will ultimately change his life forever. This is a powerful novel about life, humans, and love.