Spring break is here, which means it’s time to dust off your suitcase and start packing for an adventure! Whether you’re ready to relax in the sand or get cozy in a quiet cabin, I’ve got six books that are perfect for your next vacation destination.
For the Beach Bum
For those ready to get their tan on, check out the latest novel from one of my absolute favorite authors, “Malibu Rising” by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Four siblings, each famous in their own right, throw a massive party at their Malibu mansion, as they usher in delicious drama, chaos and maybe arson(!). Set in the ’80s, the California vibes will have you saying “surf’s up” in no time!
For the Campers and Cabin-Lovers
“Hunting Party” will absolutely keep you awake (from fear or because you can’t put it down, who knows?) because Lucy Foley knocks it out of the park with this one. Set in an isolated estate in the Scottish Highlands, a group of friends celebrate New Year’s Eve together. Two days later, one of them is dead. As the adage goes, keep your friends close, but just how close is too close? There’s a 99% chance your vacation will NOT end up like this book, but you never know….
For the Social Jetsetter
Prepare yourself … this book might make you want to talk to the passenger sitting next to you (foreign concept, I know.) “Turbulence” by David Szalay is a beautiful portrait of how one life can impact another. Set on a turbulent airplane, two passengers begin a conversation as they experience the complex human emotions that connect us all. The best part? You can definitely finish this book before you arrive at your destination!
For the Car Caravan-ner
We all know road trips can occasionally drag so when you’ve finished all your pre-made playlists and gas station snacks, try an audiobook! “The Dutch House” by Ann Patchett offers a captivating story on family dynamics, wealth and how a magical house can make a lifelong impression. The story feels like a dark fairytale, set over five decades, and focuses on the complex relationship between two siblings. My favorite part about the audiobook is that it’s read by actor Tom Hanks. Who wouldn’t want Tom Hanks riding shotgun with them?
For the City Sightseer
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Look no further for the glitz and glam of city life than “City of Girls” by Elizabeth Gilbert! Set in the 1940s, recent college dropout Vivian Morris moves to the city to live with her Aunt Peg, who owns a flamboyant and crumbling midtown theater called the Lily Playhouse. When Vivian creates her own personal scandal, the unconventional characters of the playhouse are there to show her the life she’s always dreamed of. It’s wild, fun and made me wish I had two tickets to Broadway.
For the Couch Potato
You may not be traveling the world this spring break, but who says you can’t dream of your next adventure now? I’ve always dreamed of visiting Europe one day, and the first place I’m headed to is Italy. But for now, the only way I’m getting to the Italian countryside is with my library card. Enter: “The Umbrian Thursday Night Supper Club” by Marlena De Blasi. Fall in love with the story of four Italian women — Miranda, Ninucia, Paolina and Gilda — who meet every week on Thursday evenings to cook, eat, drink and talk together. Light some candles and order in some pasta with this one for a truly spectacular “buona notte.”
Ashlee Conour is the marketing specialist at Naperville Public Library.