The Anti-Woke Summer Reading List
For those in search of books that don’t push an agenda. These 23 picks are well-written, emotionally satisfying, and worth a spot on your summer reading list.
Way too many books lately feel like political lectures in disguise, so there’s something refreshing about a story that simply wants to be a story. No forced messaging and no characters behaving like mouthpieces instead of people.
Whether you're looking for a light love story, a historical drama, a twist you didn't see coming, a new non-fiction read, or a memoir that makes you cry at 1 a.m., you’ll find something here for you.
Easy to Pick Up, Hard to Put Down
Perfect for a sunny day, a porch swing, or a quiet weekend when you want something easy to read but hard to put down.
The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh
Say yes to charm and self-discovery in this feel-good story about a recovering people pleaser.
Pretty Little Pieces by Carmen Schober
Sent to renovate a forgotten cottage in small-town Tennessee for a design show, Georgina is determined to rebuild...not just the house, but her love life, too.
Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes
Dual timeline, poetic language, and stars above London. This one is lyrical, romantic, and profound.
Bookshop by the Sea by Denise Hunter
Romance that’s cute, romantic, and grounded in forgiveness. Like Hallmark, but better written.
Historically Set, Emotionally Timeless
For the woman who likes a little literary weight, rich character studies, and history.
The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
A page-turning moral dilemma on a remote lighthouse island.
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
Classic coming-of-age in gritty, hopeful Brooklyn.
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Historical mystery and midwifery courage collide in colonial Maine with Agatha Christie vibes.
A Midnight Dance by Joanna Davidson Politano
A backstage Victorian ballet mystery meets spiritual awakening.
Excellent Women by Barbara Pym
A dry, brilliant British comedy about a spinster navigating the oddities of post-war society.
The Timeless Series by Gabrielle Meyer
An addictive series of genre-blending fiction with time travel and romance.
For the True Crime & Thriller Girlies
Dark, twisty, and bingeable, but still tasteful and smart.
The Housemaid series by Freida McFadden
Addicting domestic thrillers with big twists and shocking reveals.
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
A glamorous woman murders her husband and then stops speaking. Why? You'll devour the answer.
Cormoran Strike Series by Robert Galbraith
Classic British detective fiction with fast pacing and layered characters. J.K. Rowling under a pseudonym doesn't disappoint.
In Your Smart Girl Era
For the woman who’s fascinated by science, philosophy, or history.
Dominion by Tom Holland
A stunning, sweeping history of Christianity’s influence on the West. Very intellectually rich but still accessible.
Soundtracks by Jon Acuff
Overthinking is out, rewiring your brain is in. Fun, light, but genuinely transformative.
Sexual Personae by Camille Paglia
A raw, controversial, brainy look at art, gender, and eroticism.
Bad Therapy by Abigail Shrier
An exposé on modern therapy culture and why it’s hurting more than helping, especially our girls.
Bittersweet & Beautiful
These are the books that stay with you and hurt a little.
The All-American by Susie Finkbeiner
Sisters, baseball, and loyalty in 1950s America. A nostalgic story about finding your identity.
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
Books, grief, and second chances in a small-town bookstore. If you love books about books, this one is gold.
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
An unlikely friendship between a grieving widow and a clever octopus.
Memoirs Worth Your Time
Open Book by Jessica Simpson
A deep dive into the girl-next-door pop star who sparkled everywhere she went until the glare of fame nearly broke her.
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
A harrowing, riveting true story of growing up in chaos and clawing your way toward beauty and dignity.
Call the Midwife by Jennifer Worth
The original memoir that inspired the beloved TV series. Intimate stories of birth, poverty, and resilience in postwar London’s East End.
