Summer Reading Lists for 2021

One of my favorite things about summer is browsing all of the various summer reading lists. The term “summer reading list” cannot be tied to one type of list, but instead can usually be categorized in one of two ways. The first is a list of books that are already out in the world and ready to be read. The second is what I call a “most-anticipated list” – books that will release as the summer progresses. Frequently, a list is a combination of the two. I include below some of my favorite lists for summer 2021.

I decided to approach my own summer reading lists a little differently this year. I created two physical lists: one is a most anticipated grouping of books that will publish in June through August 2021 that I have not read yet but am looking forward to and the second contains my recommended reads, a list of books that came out in the past year that I have personally read and loved. I also devoted an episode of my podcast to favorite upcoming summer releases.

Thankfully this summer will look much different from last summer. Whether you are heading out on vacation or going to your local pool, check out one or more of these lists to find a book to bring with you:

Thoughts from a Page Summer Recommended Reads: I divided my summer list into four categories and selected my favorites from the past year that will provide great summer entertainment. Check out my Most Anticipated Summer Reads list as well. 

Thoughts from a Page Podcast interview with Elizabeth Barnhill of Fabled Bookshop and Café: Elizabeth is going to make monthly appearances on my podcast, and for the summer recommends episode, we each selected 7 of our favorite summer releases to highlight. We describe each title in depth and then discuss why we chose it. You can listen here. 

30 Best Books for Summer 2021 – The New York Post: This list includes some books that I have not seen on other lists which I always think is a plus as well as several that I have read and loved.

Kelly Hook’s Summer Books: Kelly Hooker of @kellyhook.readsbooks shared a guide that's chock full of great recommendations and it is beautifully executed (it can also be printed and taken with you). Most of the books are already out, but a few will publish in the summer. 

25 Best Books of Summer – Parade Magazine: I enjoy glancing through the Parade book lists and always find one or two that I can add to my own list.

Your Summer 2021 Reading List by Shondaland: This list has a number of books that I have not seen on other lists, and I am excited to check out some new titles from this one.

32 Can’t-Miss New Beach Reads for This Summer – Country Living: This list focuses on lighter fare for summer reading and contains some great suggestions for books to take to the beach!

I hope you enjoyed reviewing these reading lists and feel free to comment below with the summer reading lists that you find and enjoy. Happy reading!

For more book recommendations and bookish thoughts, see Cindy’s monthly Buzz Reads column, her Thoughts from a Page Podcast or follow @ThoughtsFromaPage on Instagram. Find upcoming Conversations from a Page events here.