What Are You Reading This Summer?

I love to read. 

Especially if what I am reading is engaging, or makes me feel the emotions of the characters. And if it’s also beautifully written, that’s a bonus. 

I want books that are bighearted and deep, books that explore humanity and kindness and connections. Could you use some of that too?

Uplifting Recommended Reads

July is my birthday month, and as my gift to you, I’m sharing some books that have moved me recently. I hope you’ll check out one or all of them. And if you have favorite books, I’d love to hear about them.

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

“Isn’t there something wonderful in that, to think that a story of one’s life is preserved in some way, that this very letter may one day mean something, even if it is a very small thing, to someone?”

It may not be surprising that I appreciate a story told in letters, but that’s not all that drew me to this one. It’s a story of connection and kindness over decades. I enjoyed getting to know the narrator Sybil Van Antwerp through her letters. I think you will too. 

If you prefer to listen, this one is like listening to a play with multiple characters.

Theo of Golden by Allen Levi

“The best portion of a good person’s life is ‘the little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and love.’”

Theo arrives unexpectedly in the town of Golden, and one by one listens to the stories of residents. It’s a story about friendship and helping people, kindness and compassion. Weave in gratitude and hope and a little wonder, and it’s no surprise that I loved slowing down with this book. 

Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton

I love nature, as you probably know, so this delve into the natural world was deeply satisfying. This one is nonfiction. 

“Under the subtle influence of the hare, my own wants have simplified. To be dependable in love and friendship more than in work. To leave the land in a more natural state than I found it. And to take better care of what is to hand, seeing beauty and value in the ordinary.” 

Like the other books, it is about deep connection. But this time the connection is between the author and a baby hare she cares for during Covid lockdown. During that time of loneliness, she finds compassion, caring, and companionship. 

If you’ve read any of these (or do read them after my suggestions), I’d love to hear what you think. I’d also love to hear what you’re reading these days, especially if they are books that show tenderness, caring, and kindness, books that shine light on our common humanity and connection. 

Wishing you wonderful reading experiences.

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