Summer is my favourite time of year because I finally have the time to tackle the forever-growing reading list I have been neglecting throughout the busy school year. Whether at the cottage, on the beach, or at my favourite coffee shop, I always enjoy immersing myself in a good book. So, here is a list of books you can add to your summer reading list. And because we love promoting the local scene, all of these books are by local authors. Happy Summer and happy reading!
Finding Larkspur: A Return to Village Life By Dan Needles
Finding Larkspur is all about the local life and embracing the small towns we come from, or now call home. Being from a small town (not so small anymore), I can attest to the feeling of needing out,yet envious of the people moving in. Finding Larkspur captures the essence of a village experiencing a significant shift as city folk move in, in search of a slower pace of life. It’s written for the life-long residents and newcomers about the conventions that define these communities in a series of amusing and honest stories.
This book is best enjoyed at your village coffee shop sipping a cold iced tea.
The Roach Family and Other Stories by Cindy Matthews
This collection of short stories revolves around flawed characters confronting societal norms as they strive to fit in. The stories are intertwined with dark humour as the characters find ways to control their destinies. Matthews spares no detail, leaving the words to paint a thrilling picture in your mind. Like her first collection of short stories, we couldn’t put this one down.
This read is perfect for curling up by the window on a rainy day where you can immerse yourself in the depth and wit of these vivid stories.
Shepherds Sight: A Farming Life by Barbara McLean
Shepherds Sight: A Farming Life by Barbara McLean recounts her life and journey tending a flock of Broder Leicester Sheep on her Grey County farm. The novel embodies the triumphs and tribulations of nurturing lambs, shearing and spinning wool, and the overall act of farming throughout her life. Mclean’s novel demonstrates a life deeply devoted to being a sheep farmer and living a rural existence.
A good place to enjoy this book is on the porch, embracing the fresh air and warm summer sun.
Equipoise by Katie Zydbel
Equipoise is a collection of short fiction stories revolving around the insights of womanhood and the struggle to find balance within that. The women of these stories are shaped and limited by their surroundings as they navigate life challenges and self-discovery. It confronts the troubles of opposing roles, relationships, landscapes, and catastrophes.
This book is best for a quiet place of reflection, on the lake, or at the cottage.
The View From Coffin Ridge: A Childhood Exhumed
The View From Coffin Ridge: A Childhood Exhumed is Gwen Lamont’s courageous memoir of resilience, revealing how she confronted her past. The memoir is packed with haunting and heartbreaking details about her childhood that have been exhumed in this celebrated effort.
This compelling story of reconciliation of the past and self-discovery is best read in a quiet and contemplative space like the early mornings while camping.
Childhood Unplugged: Practical Advice to Get Kids Off Screens and Find Balance
I am sure we’re all aware of the effect technology has on children, good or bad. Whether you have kids or not, I think this is an interesting read. Childhood Unplugged: Practical Advice to Get Kids Off Screens and Find Balance by Katherine Martinko draws from her experience and expert interviews to highlight the impact of excessive screen time on children’s development. With practical, age-specific advice for parents and caregivers, this book is a supportive guide for those seeking to limit digital media’s influence.
Best read on the beach, with no phones in sight just the crashing of the waves and the warm sun.
Written by Maddy Grasman
