Summer is the perfect time to catch up on your reading list. Whether you're looking for a beach read, an inspiring story or a thought-provoking book, this list of 15 must-reads for your summer vacation is sure to have something for everyone. From classic novels to contemporary best-sellers, this list has something for every reader. So grab your beach towel and your favorite drink, and get ready to dive into these amazing books.
Everyone knows smart is sexy and reading is one of the best ways to expand your mind. Although we don't always have the time we would like to spend with good books; summer often offers a chance to catch up. Vacation time allows time to travel, lounge around the house, and relax by the pool or ocean.
We asked Facebook fans and staff of RebelsMarket what books they would suggest for a summer reading list and have compiled their choices into a handy must have reading list.
Photo courtesy of La Carmina
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Colin and Karen recommend 1984 by George Orwell
This classic has woven controversy since its publication in 1949. Orwell's vision of a dystopian future where the government watches and controls citizens has inspired many modern writers. Though the book has been included on many required reading lists; it also made Time Magazine's list of Top 10 Censored Books.
These pieces are perfect for patriotic holidays.
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Heather and Jason suggest the Wheel Of Time series by Robert Jordan
Consisting of 14 books, a prequel, and a companion novel; The Wheel of Time fantasy series has developed a huge fan following that has spawned numerous games and a huge convention following.
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Sarah and Kelsey think you will enjoy Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews
A modern tale of gothic horror, Flowers in the Attic is a twisted tale of love and greed. This story will have you feeling every emotion imaginable but be warned; once you begin a V. C. Andrews addiction, you won't stop until you have read them all.
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Roxanne and Angela from FB and RebelsMarket blogger Belle agree - The Anita Blake: Vampire Hunter series by Laurell K Hamilton is a must read
Anita Blake is a woman to be reckoned with and an empowering role model for female readers. Her relationships with supernatural creatures (friend and foe) take her on adventures and put her in the middle of conflicts that are normally reserved for male heroes. She also has many romantic encounters that would make fans of the 50 Shades of Grey series blush from head to toe.
Gothic touches for the summer months.
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Christina in our Customer Service department recommends The Magic by Rhonda Byrne
For those who enjoy Self Help books; The Magic involves a 28 day process to find deeper gratitude in life and use this knowledge to help manifest the things you want in life.
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Alicia and Abra - Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
Summer is a great time to revisit classic stories. Of Mice and Men is not long and will satisfy the bookworm working on a tight schedule.
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Brandy and Debbie think you should check out The Outlander series by Diana Gabaldon
You may have heard of the popular Starz television series but have you had a chance to check out the books that inspired the show? Following the story of a nurse who time travels to 18th century Scotland; this series of novels and short stories has something for fans of ever genre.
These pieces should help with any travel not related to time hopping.
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Brian, Mary, and Darlene think summer is a good time to brush up on The Bible
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Shoshanna - The Emperor's Edge Collection Lindsay Buroker
Shoshanna feels this story will be of particular interest to our steampunk fans. Bonus - at last check this fantasy treasure can be downloaded for free on Amazon.
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Amie, Daenyra, Mallefica and Kari are fans of Game of Thrones by George RR Martin
Most people are aware of the Game of Thrones series but many have opted to restrict their exposure to HBO's televised version. As with most shows that begin with books, Game of Thrones had to undergo major editing to become manageable in tv format. This means there is still a lot to discover in Westeros for anyone willing pick up the books!
Winter is still far away- Use these pieces to get comfy by the pool!
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Mark recommends The Kingkiller Chronicles by Patrick Rothfuss
This trilogy will help you escape the real world with the fantasy adventures of Kvothe as told by him in reflections on his journeys.
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Personal recommendation - Anything by Jodi Picoult
Like many rebels, I can be a bit stubborn opinionated. Jodi Picoult has a way of creating stories based on current events in a way that shows every side of the story in a fair and equal way. She also teamed up with her daughter to write a lovely modern fairy tale!
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Joey and Nicole - Go Ask Alice by Beatrice Sparks
This novel takes us back to the 70s when drug culture was just beginning in America. The main character takes us on a journey through her teen years while giving a glimpse into the turbulent changes of the era. From standard concerns about friends, fashion, and boys; to a darker voyage through her introduction to a lifestyle built around drug use - Go Ask Alice is a relatable and impactful tale for teens and adults.
Retro style for a Summer of Love
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Many fans think you should pick up a book from Dean Koontz this summer.
Koontz is known as one of the modern Horror masters but he has also written a number of Sci-Fi and Fantasy novels. He also has witty humor that becomes evident in character dialogue. The Odd Thomas series has the best examples of his humorous banter.
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The top suggestion from our Facebook fans goes to ... Stephen King
With a wide array of topics and genres, Stephen King has something for everyone. Fans of gothic horror will love Jack's slow descent to madness in The Shining. Mothers will cringe to imagine themselves locked in a car with their child while the dangerous Cujo paces outside. Teen angst feels vindicated with Carrie. Secret cowboys will find a hero in The Gunslinger. Still having trouble deciding? Go with The Stand. Absolutely everyone will find someone to relate to in the apocalyptic epic The Stand and as Dakota stated on Facebook -
Stephen King's The Stand.
Cause it'll take ALL summer
All of the styles shown from RebelsMarket can be found in our handy Summer Essentials collection here