The classic “summer reading list.” Vogue, Elle, WSJ—all the major publications come up with a list of must-reads for your summer adventures (oh, did I mention the New York Times?) While all the books they feature are riveting, profound novels, I’m afraid they’re a bit too intense for my summer daze. These three months are the only break we’re allowed, the one time of the year we aren’t making our brain work 1,000 miles a minute analyzing Aristotle, researching financial statistics, or memorizing the human anatomy.
We want a book that’s on the lighter side. A fall head-over-heals romantic comedy, that’s just as witty and smart as it is adorable. A story that will literally have you laughing out loud, with a heroine you can totally relate to. We want a book that doesn’t actually make us rack our brains, but that keeps us guessing along the way.
Call these reads our guilty pleasures. Don’t feel pressured to get through Vogue’s or the New York Times’ summer round-ups—I’ve come to your rescue. These are my top-five light, clever, can’t-put-down books that you must read. So, go on, indulge.
1. I’ve Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella
This book is my new absolute favorite (hence, the #1 ranking). The entire story is based around a cell phone. Basically, after this book you hope you lose your phone and end up sharing one with quite the handsome catch. It may seem like a predictable plot, but there’s so many twists and turns you’ll be laughing along and waiting for the next chapter to come about. It’s kind of like the giddy, laughable feeling you get when you’re in the midst of texting your crush, eagerly anticipating his next text as the white dots pop up on iMessage (don’t lie, you know what I’m talking about). This book really reads as fast-paced and humorous as your text messages.
2. The Runaway Princess by Hester Browne
If you obsess over Will and Kate—and now baby George—even half as much as I do, then this book is written for you. Instead of Will and Kate, it’s Leo and Amy. It will make you want to move to London, share a flat with a newfound high-society friend who throws fabulous parties, and, well, find your prince charming. It’s a very posh read. I will not spoil anything, but the last chapter will definitely melt your heart.
3. Bergdorf Blondes by Plum Sykes
A modern-day satire, Plum gives you a peak into the luxurious lives of the Park Avenue Princesses. Her heroine is referred to only as moi—just to give you an idea of what you’re getting into. The pure ridiculousness of the characters and their adventures are too funny; you can’t help but giggle. You’ll indulge in a fantasy of yourself strutting down Fifth Avenue, rocking Manolo Blahnik stilettos and a Chanel frock, on your way to meet friends for a Cosmopolitan, which you’ll nonchalantly charge to your platinum card. I don’t hate it.
4. Emma by Jane Austen
This list would be incomplete without a classic. I am assuming that you have read Pride and Prejudice (if you haven’t, then immediately make that the #1 on your summer reading list), so Emma is sure to become your other beloved Jane Austen novel. Emma Woodhouse cannot be described as anything less than self-deluded, but her good intentions justify her meddling schemes—Emma is a fully invested matchmaker. Austen might have written this book in 1816, but don’t we all secretly play matchmaker for our friends? Looks like Emma is your new best friend.
5. Confessions of a Shopaholic and Series by Sophie Kinsella
If you loved the movie, you’ll love the book(s) even more. Rebecca Bloomwood is totally insane, yet so lovable at the same time. Her ridiculous sprees—and these go well beyond just shopping sprees—are painfully funny, you’ll cringe and laugh at the same time. A chronic shopper myself, I have to admit that Rebecca’s immaculate wardrobe did make me crave a trip to the mall. But, Rebecca’s constant shopping mishaps and reliance on her magic cards did actually curtail my spending. So, indulge in Rebecca’s shopping sprees instead of breaking your own bank. It’s worth it, I promise.
Happy reading!
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