HGT’s Summer Reading List
The summer sun is calling us to slow down and take in the good times, which makes it the ideal time to curl up with some interesting books. There's a book on this list for everyone, whether you're spending a quiet evening relaxing in a hammock, on the beach, or both. These are some of the most popular titles for all ages and genres to keep you occupied this summer.
For Young Adults
“Iron Widow” by Xiran Jay Zhao
A groundbreaking sci-fi novel blending Chinese history and futuristic technology. Follow the story of Zetian, a young woman who seeks vengeance in a male-dominated society.
“Ace of Spades” by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
A thrilling mystery set in an elite private school where two students are targeted by an anonymous texter. A gripping tale addressing themes of race and class.
“The Gilded Ones” by Namina Forna
A West African-inspired fantasy about a young girl, Deka, who discovers her unique abilities and must fight for her survival in a patriarchal world.
For Adults
“The Covenant of Water” by Abraham Verghese
A sweeping saga spanning over a century, this novel explores themes of love, loss, and identity in the context of a South Indian Christian family.
“The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig
A philosophical and poignant exploration of life’s choices and regrets, following Nora Seed as she navigates through various parallel lives in a magical library.
“Project Hail Mary” by Andy Weir
From the author of “The Martian,” this thrilling science fiction novel follows a lone astronaut on a mission to save Earth from an existential threat.
Popular Right Now
“Yellowface” by R.F. Kuang
A provocative and timely novel about cultural appropriation and the publishing industry, following a young author who takes extreme measures to achieve literary success.
“Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros
A new fantasy romance that has captivated readers with its intricate world-building and compelling characters. Perfect for fans of epic love stories set in fantastical realms.
“Happy Place” by Emily Henry
A heartwarming romantic comedy about a former couple who must pretend to still be together during a vacation with friends, exploring themes of love and reconciliation.
Bonus: For Everyone
“Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus
Set in the 1960s, this novel follows Elizabeth Zott, a chemist who finds herself hosting a cooking show and challenging societal norms. It’s both humorous and inspiring.
“The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune
A delightful and heartwarming fantasy about an orphanage for magical children and the caseworker sent to investigate it. A story about love, acceptance, and finding home.
“Klara and the Sun” by Kazuo Ishiguro
A thought-provoking science fiction novel about an Artificial Friend named Klara, who observes the world around her and seeks to understand human emotions and relationships.
“All the Colors of the Dark” by Chris Whitaker
In 1975, the Vietnam War ends, and girls disappear in Monta Clare, Missouri. A local boy named Patch saves a wealthy family's daughter, leaving heartache behind. Their search for answers leads to truths that could mean losing each other. Chris Whitaker's novel explores obsession, hope, and the blurred line between triumph and tragedy.
Books by POC+ Authors
“Legendborn” by Tracy Deonn
A modern-day twist on Arthurian legend, this fantasy novel follows Bree Matthews as she navigates a magical world at an elite university while unraveling family secrets and confronting systemic injustices.
“Such a Fun Age” by Kiley Reid
A thought-provoking novel about race and privilege, following the complex relationship between a young Black babysitter and her well-intentioned employer.
“The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett
A compelling story spanning generations about twin sisters who choose to live in different racial identities, exploring themes of family, identity, and societal expectations.
“The Prophets” by Robert Jones Jr.
A lyrical and heart-wrenching debut novel that explores love between enslaved men on a Deep South plantation, challenging notions of freedom and humanity.
“Black Boy Out of Time” by Hari Ziyad
A memoir exploring identity, race, and gender through the author’s personal journey, offering profound insights into the intersections of Blackness and queerness.
“Murder with Collard Greens and Hot Sauce” by A.L. Herbert
During a hair convention, Mahalia's Sweet Tea faces a surge in customers, especially after the buzz around beauty mogul Monique Dupree. However, the glitz fades when Monique is found murdered, revealing her vanity empire was marred by rivalries, explosive affairs, and backstabbers. Halia and her cousin Wavonne must uncover the culprit before another deadly surprise.
This summer, let these books take you on journeys of discovery, adventure, and introspection. Happy reading!
