The Sunday Paper’s 2025 Summer Reading List
Whether you're lounging by the pool, road-tripping to new destinations, or simply enjoying slower mornings with a coffee in hand, our 2025 Summer Reading List is packed with literary escapes to match every mood. From novels you won't want to put down, to thought-provoking nonfiction, to inspiring true stories, this list has something for everyone. Our team has curated a list filled with reads that inspire reflection, spark conversation, and remind us of the power of a well-told story to nourish, challenge, and connect us back to ourselves—wherever this summer may take you.
NOVELS
Studies at the School by the Sea
In the long-awaited conclusion to Jenny Colgan’s heartwarming School by the Sea series, beloved teacher Maggie Adair finds herself torn between the sunlit shores of Downey House and the pull of her Scottish roots. With equal parts charm and emotional depth, this is the perfect book to read while you soak in the sun—bittersweet, uplifting, and full of seaside soul.
The Love Haters
Katie Vaughn dives into Key West chaos with a fake-swimming gig and a love-hating Coast Guard hero. Romance, hurricanes, and a rescue dog make this a sizzling beach read you won’t want to put down.
Sleep
A lyrical exploration of memory and motherhood, Sleep traces a woman’s journey through past and present, parenting and trauma. A haunting, hopeful novel to get lost in under the summer stars.
Shadow of the Solstice
Anne Hillerman delivers mystery and justice on Navajo land as cults, conspiracies, and corruption threaten the vulnerable. This is a gripping, socially conscious thriller for fans of suspense.
Fox
Coming June 17
Joyce Carol Oates crafts a chilling psychological mystery around an enigmatic teacher with dark secrets. Perfect for a stormy night when you're craving something bold and unsettling.
Maine Characters
From beloved author Hannah Orenstein, this love letter to lake life is “the Parent Trap for adults,” the story of two half-sisters who meet for the first time at their father’s cabin in Maine after his unexpected death. Think sisterhood, secrets, and second chances in the sunshine.
One Golden Summer
Good things happen at the lake. That’s what Alice’s grandmother says, and it’s true. Old memories and new sparks collide as Alice returns to a magical lake and the boy she never forgot. A tender story of love, healing, and lake days that last forever.
Family Reservations
A cutthroat culinary dynasty cracks at the seams in this darkly funny tale of ambition and inheritance. Juicy, sharp, and addictive—like the best family drama recipes.
The Sisters
Meet the Mikkola sisters: Ina, Evelyn, and Anastasia. Spanning decades and continents, The Sisters is a sweeping saga of love, betrayal, and complicated family ties. For fans of rich, character-driven storytelling.
The Emperor of Gladness
An unlikely friendship between a teen and a widow blossoms into a poignant tale of redemption. Profound and poetic, this novel is perfect for quiet mornings on the porch.
The Names
One name, three paths—this inventive novel explores how one mother’s decision reshapes generations. A thought-provoking read that stays with you long after the final page.
Olivetti
A forgotten typewriter and a quiet boy team up to solve a family mystery in this charming, heartfelt adventure. Perfect for young readers and nostalgic grownups alike.
Sunny Side Up
Available June 24
Body-positive, bold, and brimming with heart, this rom-com follows Sunny as she reclaims her confidence and her love life. A sparkling, feel-good story to devour in one sunny sitting.
Atmosphere
Coming June 3
A brilliant woman aims for the stars in this sweeping story of ambition, love, and space exploration. Epic and emotional, this one's perfect for dreamers and stargazers.
Great Big Beautiful Life
Two writers, one elusive heiress, and a tangled tale of truth and attraction. Emily Henry delivers witty banter and slow-burn romance in this must-read summer escape.
Can't Get Enough
When a high-powered woman meets her match, sparks and complications fly in this smart, sultry romance. A must-read for fans of fierce leads and forbidden love.
NONFICTION
Big Dumb Eyes
Nate Bargatze brings his signature charm to this laugh-out-loud memoir of growing up, messing up, and learning to laugh through it. A hilarious companion for your next road trip.
P.S. Try listening to the audiobook read by Bargatze. It is a hoot!
Uncommon Favor
Basketball legend Dawn Staley shares the inspiring story of grit, growth, and breaking barriers. A must-read for sports fans and anyone chasing greatness on their own terms.
7 Rules of Self-Reliance
This empowering guide offers practical wisdom for navigating modern life with confidence and purpose. Ideal for a career reset or fresh personal start this summer.
Ordinary Time
Annie B. Jones finds adventure in a quiet life in this tender celebration of staying put. A beautiful meditation for anyone finding joy in the everyday.
Fired Up
Coming June 17
This energizing call-to-action from Shannon Watts will inspire you to step into your power. Whether you're starting over or starting fresh, it’s time to get fired up.
Don't Believe Everything You Think
This bestselling guide reveals how to let go of anxiety, self-sabotage, and overthinking. Clear your mind and find mental peace with this insightful read.
Moral Ambition
Rutger Bregman challenges us to redefine success as solving real-world problems. Inspiring and practical, this is your guide to making a meaningful impact.
Boat Baby
Vicky Nguyen’s memoir blends heart and humor in a tale of refugee roots and journalistic triumph. A funny, fierce celebration of resilience and identity.
We Can Do Hard Things
This uplifting guidebook from Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle offers wisdom for life’s toughest seasons. A comforting companion for any emotional journey.
How Can I Help?
Doug Tallamy empowers you to make a real ecological difference right in your backyard. Perfect for nature lovers looking to start small and dream big.
World Travel
Explore the world through Anthony Bourdain’s eyes in this rich, posthumous travel guide. Insightful and unfiltered, it’s a globe-trotting journey from a culinary legend.
Erased
Anna Malaika Tubbs powerfully exposes how patriarchy has erased women’s contributions. A bold, necessary read for those seeking truth and change.
The Ambition Trap
This anti-hustle manifesto redefines ambition as joy-driven, not burnout-bound. Essential for anyone ready to find success on their own terms.
Everything Is Tuberculosis
John Green’s most personal work yet tells a deeply human story of global health and friendship. Heartbreaking, hopeful, and urgent.
The Purposeful Warrior
Jocelyn Benson turns personal threat into a rallying cry for truth and democracy. A powerful memoir for these pivotal times.
Dear Writer
Maggie Smith offers inspiration and tools for writers of all levels in this soulful, practical guide. Ideal for creative minds seeking a summer spark.
Life Is a Lazy Susan of Sh*t Sandwiches
Coming May 27
Two best friends dish out hilarity and hard-earned wisdom on life’s messiest moments. A wild, wise, and wonderfully unfiltered summer read.
Lawless
Leah Litman takes aim at the Supreme Court with sharp wit and bold critique. Timely, irreverent, and empowering for legal minds and everyday citizens alike.
Maya Blue
A high-stakes, raw memoir of addiction, survival, and reclaiming power from the shadows of chaos. This is one you won’t forget.
Raising Hare
A wild hare and one woman’s quiet countryside life create a tender, eye-opening bond. A deeply moving story about trust, nature, and letting go.
Empire of AI
Karen Hao takes us inside OpenAI and the global tech race with fearless reporting. Essential reading for anyone curious—or concerned—about our AI future.
I, Spastic
With humor and grit, Neil defies labels and shares his wild, inspiring adventures living with dystonia. A joyful, beautiful, and rebellious autobiography full of wisdom.
The Project
David A. Graham breaks down Project 2025 with clarity and urgency. A vital, accessible guide to understanding how politics might reshape America.
The Dry Season
Melissa Febos explores celibacy, solitude, and self-reinvention in this fierce, freeing memoir. A bold ode to living on your own terms.
Anatomy of a Con Artist
Coming August 19
Johnathan Walton exposes the tricks and red flags of real-life scammers with gripping tales and practical advice. A smart and suspenseful must-read.
I Am Worthy
Coming August 26
Christine Gutierrez blends therapy and spirituality in this soulful guide to reclaiming your worth. The perfect book for a self-love summer reset.
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