Bibliotherapy: Summer Reading

Librarians often give the best recommendations. In the first installment of a new series, we asked some of Reed's own book experts to offer their summer reading suggestions.

Picture it: You, a blanket, the Great Lawn, and a good book. There's nothing better than diving into a new world—whether it be thrilling, romantic, funny, or challenging. And there's nothing like reading in the summer, when everything on campus slows down a bit, and there are ample opportunities to grab your latest read and get outside among the trees to enjoy it. 

Luckily, the Reed library offers so many options to satiate any reading mood you're in. In the first installment of Bibliotherapy, so named for Reed's popular books collection, hear from some of Reed's library staff about the best books to devour over the dog days. You can find each of them in the Pollock Room on the first floor.

Carly Lamphere, Science Librarian

My Best Friend's Exorcism by Grady Hendrix 

At its core, My Best Friend’s Exorcism is a story of true friendship. The kind of friendship that is really only experienced in those uncertain, shaky, and confusing years of high school. Now throw in a supernatural element where one of those friends is claiming to be possessed by a demon and you get a story that blurs the line between fiction and reality, making the reader question everything until the very end. This book is saturated in nostalgia—especially if you went to high school in the ’80s—and the pains of growing up while presenting some truly intense adult horror themes. (Content Warning: Sexual assault, eating disorders, violence.)

Why it's a great summer read: The opening lake scene is great when you’re in the mood for a summer scare. 

A book best read: On a lazy weekend afternoon you have to yourself and you’re in the mood to feel something a little deeper and spookier while getting all introspective about growing up. 

Angie Beiriger, Director of Research Services, Interim College Librarian

The Antidote by Karen Russell

This book by Portland author Karen Russell is a beautifully written, magical book with a cast of compelling characters that makes it impossible to put down. Bookended by a dust storm and a flood during the Dust Bowl years, the plot involves an immigrant farmer with a mystical crop of golden grain thriving despite the drought; his feral, grieving niece who is obsessed with her mother’s death; and a Black federal agency photographer whose images mysteriously capture the embedded history of the places and faces she’s photographing. Most compelling is the titular Antidote, a Prairie Witch who acts as a vault for people’s deepest, darkest secrets. 

I reccomend it because... I loved meeting these characters and piecing together their interwoven stories. For generations, my family has farmed just down the road from where this story takes place in Nebraska. Reading it felt deeply personal but the framework of magical realism took me to new places I’d love to visit again and again. 

A book best read: Sitting in the lush, green Canyon watching the ducks swim with a cool drink in your hand.

Ann Matsushima Chiu, Social Sciences & Zine Librarian

Heartstopper, Vol. 1-5 by Alice Oseman

If you’ve seen the show first, the graphic novels are even better in terms of coming-of-age queer experiences, sweet friendships, budding gay romance, and the magical potential of being genuinely yourself. While it is full of first loves, it's also about grappling with the ups and downs of friendships, the nuances in LGBTQ identities, secrets, and self worth. (Content Warning: Eating disorders, toxic relationships.)

I recommend it because . . . It's a reminder that the best loves can start from our favorite friendships. 

A book best read: After a refreshing river dip on a lazy hot summer day, in the shade of a big tree reading next to your cutie.

Caleah James, Performing Arts Librarian

Survive the Night by Danielle Vega

The story follows Casey, a young woman fresh out of rehab who decides to attend an underground rave with her enabling friend. It speaks of summer parties, forbidden fun, and absolute horror! One by one party goers are picked off by a mysterious and monstrous assailant. There is terror. There is humor. There are questions. Casey is an unreliable narrator and you can never tell if the events that are happening are in her head or not. This was a fast and fun read for me and anyone who loves horror will enjoy it! (Content Warning: Drug use, addiction, violence, abuse.)

I reccomend it because . . . This book is the perfect blend of thrilling teen horror, sweaty NYC summer raves, and coming-of-age saga all in one night! 

A book best read: When you want to be up all night listening to some EDM and drinking lots of black coffee!

Lauren Keiser Ji, Assistant to the College Librarian

Delilah Green Doesn't Care by Ashley Herring Blake

This book is equal parts sharp, funny, and unexpectedly tender. The budding romance between Delilah and Claire is sweet with a bit of spice, and the characters' personal growth makes it a satisfying read. And the best part? It’s the first book in a trilogy, so you can jump back into Bright Falls and follow two more characters in their romance journeys. 

Why it's a great summer read: Summer is peak wedding season, so why not enjoy a cute sapphic romance about a photographer being guilted into working her estranged stepsister’s event and falling in love with one of the bestie bridesmaids?

A book best read: Outside Paradox with an iced oat milk latte.

Tags: Arts & Humanities