favorite

As we turn to a new page on the calendar (yes, we still have paper ones hanging on our walls!), we hope many of you are headed on vacation this month. And, if so, we suspect you might have some extra time for reading, either at the beach, by the pool, or on a flight. 

Here are the favorite summer page-turners from several members of Team AMR. (We, of course, have to kick off a suggestion from Ellison “Book Bully” Weist, co-host of our 2x/year book-themed podcast episodes.)

The Heart’s Invisible Furies by John Boyne

“It has all the feels, laughs, and tears.” —Ellison Weist, podcast co-host

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Summer Sisters by Judy Blume

“It’s so hard to pick just one, but this novel ranks at the top for me. First of all, it’s Judy Blume—enough said! But this coming-of-age story makes you feel like you’re at Martha’s Vineyard with the characters, and you lose all track of time as you read. I devoured it for the first time years ago but I love to return to it, losing myself in the story.”

—Cathy Engstrom, newsletter editor 

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The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory 

“It’s romance, but fun and smart. The rest of her books are really good, as well.”

—April Hopkins, Train Like a Mother Club customer service

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Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey 

“Fascinating, inspiring, and hilarious. Consider listening to it on audiobook because his voice is so dreamy!!”

—Britany Williams, podcast co-host

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Any and all books by Jennifer Weiner

“I’ve read every single one of her books, and I loved them all. Also Weiner is really into cycling, and she’s recently started running, too. Her books are fun, easy reads, yet not so light as to be mindless.”

—Michelle San Antonio, Community Supporter (who also works p/t in a bookstore!)

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Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

“It is fun, witty, and hilarious—just what we need for those beachy summer days.”

—Jennifer Harrison, Heart + Sole and Triathlon Programs Coach

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Atomic Habits by James Clear

“I don’t tend to read the same fiction books more than once, but I love to re-read non-fiction. I pick up something different each time I read this bestseller: There are so many great tools and strategies within its pages—my copy is all marked up and very well loved.” 

—Brooke Thames, BAMRbassador Coordinator

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28 Summers by Elin Hilderbrand

“I like to read at least one Elin Hilderbrand every summer because they are always set on Nantucket! This novel is easy and light and, like most Hilderbrand books, involves a romantic affair in a beautiful setting.” 

—Katie Sznewajs, Chief Marketing Officer + podcast co-host

Have a favorite beach read?
Add yours in the comments below!