Sunshine, clear skies, lemonades, and turquoise waters are all the elements we typically expect in a coastal beach read. However, summer reads can offer more than just a light-hearted escape; they can also delve into the challenges and complex emotions that come with summer. These bittersweet summer reads capture the essence of the season while exploring themes that are not all sunshine and rainbows. So if you are seeking a story to accompany you on lazy afternoons by the shore, continue reading for a list of the 5 best bittersweet summer reads.
Second Chance Summer - Morgan Matson
Genres: Romance, Young Adult
Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson is a quintessential summer read, even if it is bittersweet. The story revolves around Taylor Edwards, a teenage girl who returns with her family to their lake house in the Poconos for one last summer together. Taylor's father was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer, and this trip is meant to be an opportunity for the family to create lasting memories.
Throughout the story, Taylor navigates complex emotions as she faces the imminent loss of her father, reconnects with childhood friends, and experiences a new love.
Overall, Second Chance Summer is an ideal pick if you're searching for a summer-themed book. Set against the picturesque backdrop of a lake, with nostalgic summer activities and heartfelt sleepovers, it's a perfect read for any warm day. However, be prepared for more than just fireworks, swimming, slushies, and sunshine. Several poignant scenes make this story a bittersweet journey.
Image Credit: Cove Johnson Rabidoux
The Shore - Katie Runde
Genres: Fiction, Contemporary
I will admit I have yet to finish The Shore by Katie Runde; however, it is already proving to be a bittersweet read. Don't let the cover of two teens playing on the beach fool you into thinking that this story is a lighthearted read. The Shore revolves around themes of family, loss, regret, and the complexities of relationships.
The story follows Margot, who, along with her two teen daughters, Evy and Liz, is grappling with her husband's brain tumor diagnosis. The tumor has transformed him into an erratic version of himself, leaving all three women to deal with his unpredictable behavior while also trying to maintain a sense of normalcy in their lives.
Today declared The Shore as βone of the best beach reads of all time,β and I couldn't agree more. This novel quickly draws you in with its unique characters and realistic portrayal of family dynamics. As I approach the end of the book, I anticipate reading even more bittersweet moments.
Image Credit: Erol Ahmed from Unsplash
When We Had Summer - Jennifer Castle
Genres: Young Adult, Contemporary, Coming-Of-Age
When We Had Summer by Jennifer Castle is another story that is filled with fun summer activities but also explores much deeper themes like grief and death. The novel follows a diverse group of friends who experience the aftermath of losing one of their own. They come together at their beloved summer getaway to honor their friend's memory and complete their #SummerSistersBucketList while still navigating complex emotions such as loss.
Just from the description of this book, you can get a sense of the bittersweet and sad moments that unfold in this story. However, do not put this book to the side just because it tackles emotional themes. In fact, you may even be surprised by the moments of joy and growth in this story amidst the sorrow as the friends come to terms with their grief and forge deeper connections with each other.
Overall, When We Had Summer is a worthwhile YA read that is a great choice for those seeking a heartfelt and thought-provoking summer story.
Image Credit: Cove Johnson Rabidoux
Malibu Rising - Taylor Jenkins Reid
Genres: Romance, Drama, Historical Fiction
You have probably heard of Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid. This novel instantly became a hit and for good reason! The novel is set in Malibu in the 1980s, during the annual end-of-summer party hosted by the famous Riva family.
The Rivas are not only known for their extravagant parties but also their complex dynamics and secrets. As the night unfolds, the story weaves through past and present, delving into the lives of the four Riva siblings: Nina, Jay, Hud, and Kit.
Throughout the novel, the Riva siblings confront their challenges and fractured relationships, while the party intensifies with drama, revelations, and unexpected guests. Malibu Rising is perfect for summer not only because it's set on a beach, but also because of its portrayal of Malibu culture, complete with fame, surfing, and Hollywood glamour.
If you are looking for a summer novel filled with mystery, romance, engaging characters, and heartfelt, bittersweet scenes, Malibu Rising is perfect for you!
Image Credit: Cove Johnson Rabidoux
This One Summer - Mariko Tamaki
Genres: Young Adult, Graphic Novel, Coming-Of-Age
When I first picked up This One Summer I did not expect it to become one of my favorite books, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. While This One Summer is a graphic novel, rather than a traditional novel, it is truly captivating with its rich characters and beautiful artwork.
The story centers on Rose, who journeys with her parents to their lake house in Awago Beach, a cherished retreat for her. There, she reunites with Windy, a friend who feels like the little sister she's never had. However, this summer proves different from previous ones.
Rose's parents are constantly arguing, leaving Rose and Windy to seek distractions from new areas. As they do, they stumble upon a local teen in a life-threatening situation.
This One Summer couldn't be a better summer read as it evokes so much nostalgia and captures the essence of summer from marshmallow roasting, backyard BBQs, and lake swimming.
Image Credit: Cove Johnson Rabidoux
Sometimes you don't only want to read about the carefree days of summer but also crave stories that explore deeper themes. The bittersweet summer reads listed above do just that and they are sure to resonate with you long after the final page is turned. So, whether you're lounging by the beach or seeking a captivating story under the sun, these novels provide bittersweet explorations of family, loss, and growing up.
From Morgan Matson's Second Chance Summer to Jennifer Castle's When We Had Summer, each book will invite you to immerse yourself in the highs and lows of summer, the most transformative season. So, pack your beach bag with sunscreen and tissues, because these bittersweet tales are sure to enrich your next seaside escape.
