Summer reading recommendations

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Book review: top 3 reads of the summer

Kiswa Khan ’23 Assoc. Managing Editor (she/her) I’ve been experimenting with many di erent genres over the summer. Here are some of my top choices that I would recommend. Happy reading! Just Kids

Book lovers Daisy Jones & The Six

(contemporary romance)

Nora Stephens and Charlie Lastra both work in the publishing industry. ey nd themselves in a small town in North Carolina editing a book together after Nora’s sister plans a trip to Charlie’s hometown. e story involves coming to terms with grief, independence, family circumstances and the special bond Nora shares with her sister. I found it refreshing that the romance between the characters simply moves in tandem with their lives rather than being the main plot of the book. All the characters in this book were incredibly tangible and introspective, but also relatable and easy to connect with. Overall, I loved the smalltown trope and the chemistry between the characters. Every page was so funny and perfect, and the story never lacked depth. (historical fiction)

The rise and fall of the famous 70’s band “Daisy Jones & e Six” involved erce rivalry between the lead singers and shared emotional turmoil. e story is written in an interview format, where every band member is a narrator, and every decision made in the past is brought to light. is adds a layer of reader stimulation, since you nd yourself having to piece together a story with all the di erent perspectives that you have. e book exhibits the challenges of living in the public eye and the transformation and denial of one’s identity in the interest of tting in. is book is a true display of life and a reminder that even with fame, celebrities exist with us in the assumptions and stigmas of our world. “Daisy Jones & e Six” is a must read and brings important considerations about humanity and choice to light. (memoir/autobiography)

This book is hands-down one of my favorite books ever. “Just Kids” is a love letter from Patti Smith to her best friend Robert Maplethorpe. It chronicles their life together as artists and best friends in New York throughout the 60’s and 70’s. eir story touches upon themes of adulthood and identity, but it is also about friendship, love, youth, music and meaningful relationships. I don’t usually love memoirs, but I absolutely fell in love with their story and Patti’s way of telling it. I was engrossed in their adventures, but above all, I loved how easily they clicked despite their different identities. e fact that they were able to nd comfort in the presence of one another was beautifully captured. You really get the sense that they were their truest selves when they were with each other. is is a beautiful story of soulmates and tragedy. If you like poetry and rock and roll, read this book!