Summer reading special
We’ve pooled together some of our best reading recommendations for the long hot summer ahead – so dip in and find your new favourite novel
’Tis the season – with apologies to everyone in the southern hemisphere – for long reading sessions while lounging by the pool, sunbathing in the park, sheltering in a tent during a downpour…
We’ve pulled together a bumper series of Booker-nominated reading recommendations for the summer months ahead, whether you’re off on holiday or staying put.
Among these reading lists you’ll find books where hot weather and seaside settings are much more than just a backdrop, as well as novels that will make you laugh or keep you on the very edge of your seat.
Still unsure where to start? Our summer quiz will recommend the best holiday book for you.
10 Booker-nominated books that are perfect for hot weather
In these searingly good Booker-nominated reads, hot weather is part of the plot: a symbol of tension, a metaphor for oppression, a filter for individuals’ memories or an active part of events.
10 Booker-nominated books to take to the seaside
Take a trip through some of literature’s most unforgettable coastal settings with these Booker-nominated novels. While we can’t guarantee you’ll feel the sand between your toes, we know these literary masterpieces will transport you to the shore in a heartbeat.
Nine Booker-nominated novels to take on a road trip
From adventurous pensioners to genre-bending excursions, join a long drive like no other this summer in the company of these Booker-nominated novels. Sit back and fasten your seatbelt…
13 of the best page-turners from the Booker Library
The notion that a rollicking good read is somehow incompatible with literary excellence is one that has been continuously disproven by titles selected by Booker judges over the years. These compelling novels will keep you gripped from beginning to end.
11 of the funniest novels from the Booker Library
On holiday, our mood lightens as the stresses of work fall away. These witty works – from biting social satire to family farce – are sure to put a smile on your face.
Editors’ picks: our favourite Booker Prize-nominated books to read this summer
From the nostalgia of the British seaside to distant, sun-soaked landscapes, dive into the Booker Prizes team’s recommendations for summer reading.
20 of the best summer reads nominated for the Booker Prize, chosen by our readers
But enough about us – what are you reading this summer? From novels that transport you to a far-flung location in the space of a few well-crafted sentences, to books that turn up the heat with a riveting plotline: these are some of your all-time favourite books to escape with.
Summer reading quiz: find the perfect Booker book to take on holiday
Tell us about your dream holiday and we’ll recommend the perfect book from the Booker Library to pack in your suitcase.
What’s on your TBR list this summer? We’d love to know! Share your seasonal reading recommendations with fellow subscribers in the comments below.
Surprising amount of very poorly designed book covers.
Summer reading quiz isn't appearing for me 😓