Reading edits are compiled by Francine Thompson, W&D’s Content Manager; Bridgette Dutkowski, W&D’s Project Manager; and me! Every month we get together to talk about the content going on W&D for the upcoming weeks, which is most often inspired by articles, timely topics, and cultural touch points outside the lifestyle category. This list is a little different, as we are focusing on books we can’t wait to read. We hope that we enjoy these books and get as much out of them as we hope to we do!

Remember the end of the year recommended summer reading lists? Me either. I know these do exist, based on popular culture and from talking with peers. While I don’t seem to have the time to crack open a magazine (I keep trying, I swear!) I do have a list of books that I’m dying to read. Some are old favorites and some are new titles that are arriving this summer.  I’m hoping that I’ll have time to read all of these on my upcoming maternity leave [insert sarcastic laugh]. What book are you looking forward to diving into this summer?

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+ It’s Okay to Laugh (Crying is Cool, Too) by Nora McInerny Purmort -To be fair, I already read this book, but I plan on reading it again.

+ Sweetbitter by Stephanie Danler – Somehow, I bypassed my entire 20s without ever working in the service industry, but everything I read about this novel claims to encapsulate the entire experience.

+ Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain- To help understand and empower myself in aspects of life.

+ The Girl With the Lower Back Tattoo by Amy Schumer – I mean, ’nuff said.

+ The Girls by Emma Cline– Chilling thriller hinged on Charles Manson’s devoted following and their murderous devotion, told through the eyes of a fictional narrator. This NYT review sold me on it.

+ I am No One by Patrick Flannery – One of my favorite movies of past fews was CitizenFour, the documentary capturing the Edward Snowden story. I am No One seems like a logical summer read for anyone interested in government surveillance and our right to privacy.

+ How to Start a Fire and Why by Jesse Bell- On female friendships, growing up, and growing together.

+ The Innocent Have Nothing to Fear by Stuart Stevens – A timely read during an unprecedented political climate. The book takes place during a contested Republican convention….

+ Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride and Prejudice  by Curtis Sittenfeld– An all time favorite story told in a fresh and compelling way? Sign me up. Both my sister and mother-in-law loved it!

Kate Arends

Kate is the founder of Wit & Delight. She is currently learning how to play tennis and is forever testing the boundaries of her creative muscle. Follow her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.