As we welcome the lovely month of June, we also (unfortunately) welcome the heat. Great. But fear not, since I have found a few books that are sure to keep you out of the summer heat and entertained with these compelling and gripping stories. If you want to beat the summer swelter, then do I have the books for you in my Top 5 Books listed below:
- Good Luck, Babe – Erin Baldwin
Starting off this list is this gay romance novel! An original story by Erin Baldwin, this story tells the lives of two best friends as they find themselves fake-dating on their favorite reality TV show. Compared to other popular writers like Becky Albertalli, this novel is sure to be one of your favorite books for the summer of 2026!
- The Children: A Novel – Melissa Albert
From the mind of Melissa Albert, this new novel brings a new haunting story that is sure to stay with you this summer. Following the journey of Guinevere as she struggles and grapples to discover the truth of what happened one infamous night in her past. Praised as “extraordinary” by the one and only Stephen King, be sure to add this book to your reading list!
- The Typing Lady: And Other Fictions – Ruth Ozeki
Yet another work from Booker Prize finalist Ruth Ozeki delivers more stories that are sure to be classics in this new novel. Containing short stories about a singular outlook into childhood ambition and the desire of childhood that leads to the reflective older years.
- Black Freedom: A Visual History of Juneteenth and Emancipation Days – Blair LM Kelley
In the month of June, this book is a MUST-read for this upcoming Juneteenth. Depicted fully in illustrations, this novel showcases the history of Juneteenth and additional celebrations for Emancipation Day to showcase the struggle of many Black Americans. See the rich history, fight, and struggle in Blair LM Kelley’s new novel!
- Drayton and Mackenzie – Alexander Starritt
Ending this list is a new and intelligent novel by Alexander Starritt. Praised by the Sunday Times as “A big, bustling novel about love, friendship, money [and] ambition,” this novel is sure to leave you in utter tears. Do not make the mistake of missing this newest novel.
