Summer Reading List!

We have less than twelve Fridays until Autumn. For me, I did a little happy dance when I heard that because I absolutely adore Autumn. Pumpkins, apple cider, flannel, gorgeous leaves...

But, we still have barely started July, which means that Literature Girl summer is still upon us, the days of finishing a book in two days and obsessing over fictional characters as much as possible with our somehow still very busy schedules.

Below is a list of some of my favorite books that I can't help but think of Summer when I see them. I've listed any content warnings and a brief synopsis of the story as well. I hope you enjoy and maybe find a new summer read to enjoy at the pool or on the hammock!

Fantasy:

• The Song that Moves the Sun by Anna Bright

  An urban fantasy that involves two best friends, a whirlwind journey through the galaxy, music, and maybe just a little bit of historical characters. One of my all time favorite books, The Song that Moves the Sun includes absolutely gorgeous prose, a fantastic story with incredible world building and some of the most adorable characters in existence.

  Cautions include: a few minor instances of language, a slightly graphic violent scene and depictions of trauma and ptsd.

  
  

• Sisters of Sword and Song by Rebecca Ross

  Set in a Greek/roman type world, Sisters of Sword and Song revolves around two sisters who become caught up in a dangerous mission to rescue their queen. Complete with magic, fictional mythology and a rich backstory for almost all of the characters. I read this book last month and absolutely loved it!

  Cautions include: some violence, depictions of abuse and trauma, and a few instances of language.

  
  
  
  

• The Many Assassinations of Samir, the Seller of Dreams by Daniel Nayeri

  I loved this book because it was short and easy to read and unique. Daniel Nayeri sets his story in an Arabian/Persian setting and spins a tale of a lost little boy without a family finding a home in his master. The end holds a double plot twist that completely blew my mind. Daniel Nayeri is a masterful writer, whose prose flows seamlessly. Hilarious and deeply profound, I can't recommend this book enough.

  Cautions include: slight violence and several intense scenes.

  
  
  
  

  Fiction:

• At Home in Mitford by Jan Karon

  Written to depict the beauty of small-town life, At Home in Mitford is the story of a middle-aged rector whose biggest problems are the new computer in his church office and a rich old widow who wants to gift his church her fortune. Add in an attractive neighbor and a sweet little boy who needs a home, and this book will capture your heart and make you wish for the Mayberry type lifestyle.

  Cautions include: none that come to mind! :)

  
  

• Everything Sad is Untrue by Daniel Nayeri

  Two Daniel Nayeri recs in one post? Oh yes. *beams*

  Everything Sad is Untrue is probably my favorite YA book ever. Displayed as a true story, Daniel Nayeri explains how his mother became a Christian in Muslim Iran, and how she fled for her life with her two children. Once one of the richest children in the city, Daniel now became the poor and bullied kid at his new school in Oklahoma.

  The writing is fantastic and gorgeous. Daniel makes a beautiful point about Christianity on page and then has you laughing hysterically on the next.

  Cautions include: depictions of domestic abuse, potty humor.

  
  

• The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith

  In Africa, detectives are needed. Alexander McCall Smith writes about Precious, a woman who inherits a small fortune from her father and builds a ladies' detective agency. Light-hearted and unique, this book's excellent writing could easily become one of your favorite books.

  Cautions Include: one instance of language, intense scenes

  
  
  
  

  Non-Fiction:

• This Changes Everything by Jaquelle Crowe

  Unlike these other recs, this one doesn't specifically say "summer" but it's still an easy and fun read. Focused on teens living out their faith and the radical power of the gospel, this book is one I will never not recommend. ♥

  
  

• Through Gates of Splendor by Elizabeth Elliot

  The powerful story of the martyrdom of Elizabeth's husband, Jim Elliot, and his companions. Complete with pictures and specific insights from Elizabeth, Through Gates of Splendor brought the story of Jim Elliot alive for me.

  
  
  
  

  That wraps up my recs for now, but I'm planning on doing a fall list, and a winter list, so be on the lookout for those! If you see something on this list that looks fun or like something you want to try, comment below and let me know what book you're interested in, or share what books you're reading this summer!

  
  

  Until next time, keep a ready heart and an open mind. ♥

  Love,

  -Mira

  
  

  P.S. To read my intro post, click here!

  
  

Read my Intro!

•