Summer is officially here and if you’re anything like us, you’re ready to enjoy it. And while this may involve cottage visits, family gatherings and other fun summer activities, we’re also big proponents of enjoying the little things. Everyday moments are what shape our quality of life, and summer is the perfect opportunity to soak in the quiet pleasures of the season. This may involve enjoying your morning coffee on a balcony or outdoor patio, taking lunch outdoors whenever possible, walking through local gardens, enjoying the late-evening sunsets or going for a dip in an outdoor pool. It may be as simple as having your windows open to let in fresh air and a warm breeze!
Your summer may also involve reading some great books—something many of us enjoy year round. Here are our recommendations for your summer reading list—these titles have been chosen because they’re great for seniors, but they’re worth reading no matter what age you are. If you have additional recommendations, please share them with us on Facebook!
Wintering by Katherine May
While we see the irony in recommending a book with this title in the late days of June, believe us when we say it’s perfect for your summer reading list. Wintering is a smart, tender non-fiction book about the power of rest and retreat during difficult times. It’s introspective, engaging and quite comforting—an excellent read for seniors and younger readers alike. If you enjoy this book, you may want to pick up Enchantment by the same author.
Akin by Emma Donaghue
Canadian author Emma Donaghue has written some incredible novels—The Wonder, Room and The Pull of the Stars, for example—and Akin is no exception. It tells the story of an elderly man who unexpectedly finds himself caring for a young relative he’s never met before. Rather than canceling his long-anticipated trip home to Nice, France, the man takes his young nephew along with him. It’s a heartfelt, clever and fast-paced book that blends adventure, sombre discovery and humour.
At Last Count by Claire Ross Dunn
A sweet and entertaining novel, At Last Count is ideal for anyone who enjoys Canadian fiction, birding, coming of age stories and uncovering the complexities of family. Main character Paisley has obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and a complicated family history, but as she faces new challenges, her strength and wit shines through. Author Claire Ross Dunn is a Toronto-based screenwriter who has written for Degrassi and Little Mosque on the Prairie as well as several films. Funny, sad and delightful all at once, this is a lovely book that makes for great summer reading.
Ordinary Wonder Tales by Emily Urquhart
Emily Urquhart may be the daughter of acclaimed Canadian novelist Jane Urquhart, but she’s an exceptional writer in her own right. Ordinary Wonder Tales is her third non-fiction book—an essay collection that discusses folk tales, superstition and the ordinary wonders that surround us throughout our lives. It’s a smart, charming collection that readers of all ages will enjoy. And because it’s divided into stand-alone essays, it’s easy for seniors to read as quickly or as slowly as they’d like without losing track of their place in the book.
The Lie Marker by Linwood Barclay
Canadian author Linwood Barclay has written over 20 novels, many of which are popular with mystery fans who like an exciting read. The Lie Maker is his most recent release, and it’s getting great reviews from readers and critics alike. Described as a “twisty, fast-paced thriller” about a man searching for his father years after being in the witness protection program, The Lie Maker promises plenty of action. And if you’re looking for more mysteries or thrillers, there will be countless options at your local bookstore. Consider titles by Louise Penny, Robin Cook, Ruth Ware, Hannah Mary McKibbon or Samantha M. Bailey. You could also explore some older titles by Agatha Christie, Sue Grafton, P.D. James, Mary Higgins Clark or James Patterson. Happy reading!