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Since childhood, I’ve always felt a strong connection between summertime and reading. I recall countless trips to the library with my mom and sisters, turning the wiry book rack around and around as I searched for a new novel.  There were rainy days where I’d get lost in the pages of Nancy Drew or The Bobbsey Twins, and even Adult Swims at the pool when I’d flip through the pages of The Babysitter Club to keep up with the pseudo-dramas that Stacey, Mary Anne, Kristy, and Claudia all found themselves facing.

But, now, summer is a little different, a little busier with life and kids and responsibilities. I’m more thank likely rereading The Very Hungry Caterpillar for the 786th time or paging through a Pottery Barn catalog while I watch my kids ride their scooters down the sidewalk. I do love both of those reads with my very whole heart, by the way, but they’re certainly not nurturing my inner-reader.

This summer, however, I’ve vowed to be different. I’m going to read. In fact, I’ve already read one whole book this summer and it was wonderful! Here’s what’s on my bookshelf…

Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis

This book! Omgosh. I cannot say enough good things about it. It’s an empowering read that seeks to crush all the lies we tell ourselves as women, butted against the actual truth instead. I pretty much highlighted the whole dang thing because every word was affirming and something I needed to here. Rachel’s writing style is conversational and friendly, making me feel like she’s my best friend, sitting across from me at the local coffee shop, swinging her latté around while she animatedly advises me on how to live my best life. It’s SO empowering. This is the one I finished in less than a week and would be an excellent book to accompany you to the pool, on vacation, or on your back patio while you watch your kiddos play after dinner. GO GET IT NOW!

100 Days to Brave by Annie F. Downs

This is a small devotional, with 100 days worth of daily reads that focus on empowering you to be brave through story and scripture. The two-page devotionals are quick and easy to read, offering you words from the Bible and small reflection at the end of each one. I’m only three days into this one, but it’s simple and has been a welcomed addition to my morning coffee time.

She Reads Truth Bible by SRT

This Bible is amazing and I cannot say enough good things about it. From having two (two!) ribbon bookmarks to help you keep your place as you bounce between books, to the hand-lettered scripture found at the beginning of each book, to the reading plans, etc. etc. etc – it’s amazing. I start every morning with a cup of coffee, scripture, and prayer. Because, truth be told, if I don’t do it before the day begins, it won’t get done at all. I get distracted by kids and busy-ness and work, so I have to be sure to prioritize my quiet time first thing in the morning.

Grit: The power of passion and perseverance  by Angela Duckworth

I’ve just begun this one as a professional development for the summer – great for teachers, parents, entrepreneurs, business execs, athletes, and students. Angela is a researcher, professor, former teacher, and author who attests that talent isn’t actually everything – grit actually accounts for more. It’s astounding to read the anecdotes she shares, proving that background, socioeconomic status, and IQ don’t affect someone’s grit. Effort is really important. (Educators, I highly recommend this one.)

So, head over to your nearest library, download them to your Kindle, or have them delivered to your door by Amazon Claus. You’ll be so glad you did!

What are you reading right now? I didn’t list any fiction works and I’d love to here your suggestions!