Looking forward to summer reading

River Park South

The summer reading is different for everyone. For some, it’s a chance to keep learning, grow personally, and engage with important topics. It’s a flexible way to explore new ideas and broaden perspectives during a time usually associated with relaxation. Others prefer their summer reads to be less academic and more about pure escapism — books that are entertaining and forgotten almost as soon as the last page is turned.

My own summer stack currently includes eight books, covering various genres. It’s a good mix of books for learning and those for entertainment, though a book can certainly be both.

At the top of my list are Indigenous Rights in One Minute by Indigenous rights lawyer Bruce McIvor, and 52 Ways to Reconcile by local author David A. Robertson. Both come highly recommended for understanding Indigenous rights and gaining crucial insights. In the case of the latter title, suggestions for ways for non-Indigenous individuals, like me, to contribute to reconciliation are welcome; number 52 is ‘share this book’. Consider it done.

Another book I’m looking forward to is Languishing: How to Feel Alive Again in a World that Wears Us Down by Corey Keyes. This one came to me through a professional development opportunity. It’s all about finding your way to “flourishing” and rediscovering joy and well-being, especially when so much in the world seems to push us in the opposite direction.

For a dose of wit and humor, I’ll be diving into Media Brat: A Gen-X Memoir by Patricia Dawn Robertson, daughter of sportswriter John Robertson. Her trademark style offers a unique look at growing up with a well-known parent. I’m particularly keen on the chapter “Meet Me at the Monty,” a nostalgic nod to a popular local hangout from our younger days. Keep an eye out for Patricia’s regular op-eds in The Free Press.

When it comes to fiction, Taylor Jenkins Reid is always a favorite. I’ll be rereading The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, and then likely reading it again. I also need to revisit the ending of Liann Shang’s Julie Chan is Dead to better understand a comment I heard the author make during an interview. Adding newly discovered author Megan Collins to the mix rounds out my summer fiction choices.

What’s on your reading list for the summer of ‘25? Suggestions are welcome.