Summertime……..
"Summertime and the livin' is easy" is the opening lyric of the song "Summertime," composed by George Gershwin for the 1935 opera Porgy and Bess. Some may know the rest…..
I’m genuinely happy for the warm sun and especially excited to dive into my favorite summer reading tradition, which always brings a special kind of joy. Here are my top book choices for summer 2026 that I believe you'll enjoy and find meaningful, offering both entertainment and insight.
Last year, one of my readers kindly recommended a compelling book called The Carpenter’s Son by John Gray. I’m truly so glad she did! It turned out to be an excellent and deeply moving read in every respect. As acclaimed #1 New York Times bestselling author Richard Paul Evans puts it, "If you've ever wished you could travel back in time to the days of Jesus and ask all of the most difficult and profound questions, this is the novel for you. The Carpenter's Son brings Christ into our modern world in a vivid and relatable way, and it will fill the reader with love, hope, and faith not only in God but also in the possibility of a better world." I found it so inspiring that I even chose to include it in my book club discussions!
For inspiring spiritual reading, try Set The World on Fire: A 4-Week Personal Retreat with the Female Doctors of the Church. Author and retreat leader Vinita Hampton Wright guides you through the powerful lives and times of these saints, helping you grow in strength, humility, hope, joy, and vision.
Each week of your retreat starts with reading and prayer on the weekend to introduce the saint and the main topic. Then you follow five days of morning and evening prayer. Much of the text is from the saint’s own writings. Scripture, reflection questions, and action ideas help you connect personally.
As Time Goes By by Mary Higgins Clark. The #1 New York Times bestselling “Queen of Suspense” Mary Higgins Clark crafts a thrilling mystery in which a news reporter develops an interest in her birth parents just as she is assigned to cover the high-profile trial of a woman accused of murdering her wealthy husband.
Summer reading is more than just turning pages, it’s a heartfelt invitation to adventure, thoughtful reflection, and peaceful relaxation. Whether you’re leisurely lounging by the pool, escaping to a shady hammock beneath swaying trees, or savoring quiet, unhurried mornings with a warm cup of coffee, books open doors to new and exciting worlds as well as fresh, inspiring ideas. They spark deep curiosity, ignite creativity, and offer the perfect balance between leisure and meaningful learning. This summer, let captivating stories be your passport to wonder because every book holds the timeless promise of discovery and growth.
Let me know what you are reading this summer. You never know, it might just become a part of my book club’s next exciting lineup!
Happy Reading!
Blessed and Safe Summer to All!
Thank you for allowing me to be part of your spiritual journey! Keep at it! Keep praying. Love the Lord.
Peace and Grace.Fran Acosta,OFS
