From the Bottom of My Beach Bag, Summer 2021 Edition

It is time to clean out the coveted beach bag once again. Although we had more freedom this summer than last, it was refreshing to explore in person. However, we can still set aside time to seek adventures between the pages of this summer’s top best sellers. And what will we find at ‘the bottom of my beach bag?’

Favorite authors and genres which allow us to indulge in a little mystery, a splash of intrigue, and even historical fiction as well true crime non-fiction.

So, without further ado, here are my favorite reads From the Bottom of My Beach Bag, Summer 2021 Edition:

Gift From the Sea, Anne Morrow Lindbergh

This gem came onto my radar on a much-needed retreat to Sanibel Island. Much like the author herself who first penned this classic on a similar retreat to neighboring Captiva Island. First published in 1955, Lindbergh beautifully captures the essence of a simpler way of living. While observing her surroundings, she gives meaning to the many shells she comes across. Lindbergh is insightful; each shell becomes symbolic for different phases we endure as we mature, particularly in a woman’s life. This book is a gift that has withstood the test of time. Perfect for anyone reflecting on their own life at any stage.

The Push, Ashley Audrain

Heralded as “one of the best books of 2021,” The Push is a compelling page-turner. Audrain’s story will keep you pondering if some people are simply born “bad.” Blythe Connor desires to be a caring mother, mainly fueled by the lack of love she experienced from her own mother. As Violet’s mother, unfortunately, she cannot bond with her beautiful daughter. Violet’s distant demeanor, torments Blythe yet she knows she will be a better nurturer with new baby Sam. Blythe is desperate for her now-distant husband to see what frightens her most. But will Violet continue to interfere with Blythe’s vision of what motherhood should be? Can Blythe make her husband Fox believe her instincts? Keep reading – and keep waiting -for “the push.” 

Writers and Lovers, Lily King

King draws the reader in immediately with her engaging dialogue and endearing protagonist. Casey Peabody is an aspiring writer who pays the bills by waitressing among a cast of eccentric characters. Frustrated by her on-going procrastination, her seemingly dead-end career, and her outstanding debt; Casey is hanging on by the proverbial thread. A chance encounter at a book signing veers her life into a romantic twist. Eventually she will have to choose between an established novelist or an up-and-coming writer/high school teacher. Follow Casey on her journey as she stays true to her craft. Eventually she may give in to the possibility of love. A strong message to anyone who recognizes and tenaciously sticks with their dream.

The Four Winds, Kristin Hannah

Once again, Hannah delivers with this captivating story set during the Dust Bowl while providing gritty historical details. Both heartbreaking and endearing, the story follows Elsa Martinelli from a life where she felt worthless to a life where she found purpose. She learned to passionately love and care for both her children and her land. Surprising herself, Elsa finds strength and determination in a world that is harsh; she searches for a better life during an unforgiving time in our country’s history. The accurate depiction of the Dust Bowl migrants will have readers rooting for Elsa to find her place among them.

The People We Meet on Vacation, Emily Henry

While predictable from the beginning, it is still a fun journey following Poppy and Alex on their many adventures during a decade of summer vacations. Witty dialogue and bantering between the central characters made this fun, beach-read flow quickly as these friends mature. First meeting in college, Poppy and Alex are complete opposites in tastes, lifestyle preferences, and overall personalities. Yet their instant bond keeps them together through career choices, life choices, and relationship choices. Join them on their vacations for some good fun and a happily-ever-after ending that was a long time coming!

A Good Neighborhood, Therese Anne Fowler

The stereotypes of the characters are a bit contrived, yet Fowler provides thoughtful insight. These characters depict what is happening across our country today with racial strife and class differences. Set in a North Carolina neighborhood, life is sublime for Valerie Alston-Holt and her son Xavier. Musically inclined, Xavier is heading to college in the fall. Then the Whitman’s move into the neighborhood. Creating quite a stir with their new McMansion and aversion to the rules, friendships are made and then challenged. Brad Whitman brings an entitled vibe to the charming neighborhood, as well as a teenage daughter who finds herself drawn to Xavier. Lines are crossed and lives will be changed forever.

Chaos:  Charles Manson, the CIA, and the Secret History of the Sixties, Tom O’Neill

Everyone growing up in the ’70’s remembers obsessing over Helter Skelter, published in 1974, and the literal chaos created by Charles Manson as the decade of hippies and “make love, not war” came to an end. In 1999, O’Neill was given the assignment to cover the 30^th anniversary of the Tate-LaBianca Murders, but what he uncovered during his in-depth research took him two decades to document and put into Chaos. O’Neill received little cooperation from Hollywood insiders and law enforcement officials during his investigation. Also, mind-control experiments were being conducted by the CIA during the ‘60’s. These factors continually baffled O’Neill as did Manson’s ability to be released from custody time and again. Could the murders have been prevented? How did one charlatan influence a group of peaceful hippies to commit murder? O’Neill methodically researches these questions and more.

The Midnight Library, Matt Haig

Have you ever lived with regrets, thinking a different choice would have taken your life on another course? The regret consumes you so much that you consider making a radical choice – death. Such are the demons that surround Nora Seed when she falls into the Midnight Library; a place which provides opportunities to ponder how these other life choices may have worked instead. Join Nora on her quest as she discovers alternate versions for a life full of regrets. Still, she has the chance to erase those regrets. Nora must decide how to live the best version of her life…before she runs out of opportunities.

Only a few weeks left of my favorite season of the year. Yet, I still plan to read, and add, to this list. My beach bag is feeling lighter as I have successfully accomplished another summer of avid reading. As always, comment on your favorite from this list or add one of your own summer favs!

Happy reading!

For more summer reading fun, check out From the Bottom of My Beach Bag: Summer 2020 – scribingwithscout

Purchase these books at Barnes and Noble or Amazon.