29 August, 2025
discover-summer-s-best-reads-with-recommendations-from-ellen-cornwell

As the summer draws to a close, many book enthusiasts are seeking captivating reads to enjoy during the warm months. Ellen Cornwell, editor of The Tide, and her husband, Andy, have curated a diverse list of recommended titles across various genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s literature.

Non-Fiction Highlights

For those interested in real-life stories, the suggested non-fiction reads include *Endurance: Shackleton’s Incredible Voyage* by Alfred Lansing, published by Basic Books. This classic recounts the harrowing journey of Ernest Shackleton and his crew during their ill-fated Antarctic expedition. Another compelling selection is *The Feather Thief: Beauty, Obsession, and the Natural History Heist of the Century* by Kirk Wallace Johnson, a gripping narrative that explores the theft of rare bird feathers.

Additional notable titles in this category are *Modoc: The True Story of the Greatest Elephant That Ever Lived* by Ralph Helfer and *Red Notice: A True Story of High Finance, Murder, and One Man’s Fight for Justice* by Bill Browder. Each of these books provides unique perspectives on resilience and justice. Readers can also explore *Rise to Greatness: Abraham Lincoln and America’s Most Perilous Year* by David Von Drehle for an insightful look at a pivotal time in American history.

Fiction Picks for Every Taste

Fiction lovers will find a wealth of captivating stories in Cornwell’s recommendations. *A Land Remembered* by Patrick D. Smith offers a rich depiction of Florida’s history through the eyes of a family over generations. Meanwhile, *Beneath a Scarlet Sky: A Novel* by Mark Sullivan tells a stirring tale set in Italy during World War II.

For mystery enthusiasts, the Aimée Leduc series by Cara Black is a must-read. Other fiction highlights include *Go as a River* by Shelley Read, *Lady Tan’s Circle of Women* by Lisa See, and *The Great Alone* by Kristin Hannah.

Lisa See’s works, including *On Gold Mountain: The One-Hundred-Year Odyssey of My Chinese-American Family* and *The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane*, delve into the complexities of family and cultural heritage. Additionally, *The Only Woman in the Room* and *The Other Einstein*, both by Marie Benedict, explore the lives of remarkable women in history.

Readers looking for heartwarming narratives can turn to *The River We Remember* and *This Tender Land* by William Kent Krueger, both published by Atria Books. These novels promise engaging storytelling set against vivid backdrops.

Children’s and Young Adult Selections

Children’s literature is not overlooked in this list. Classics such as *Farmer Boy* by Laura Ingalls Wilder and *Hatchet* by Gary Paulsen remain timeless favorites. Young readers can also enjoy *Heroes: A Novel of Pearl Harbor* by Alan Gratz, which teaches resilience and bravery.

For lighter, fun reading, *Hoot* by Carl Hiaasen and *Let’s Go, Coco!* by Cindy Ward and Tomie dePaola engage young imaginations. Additionally, *Wonder* by R.J. Palacio and *The War I Finally Won* by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley offer touching narratives that resonate with both children and adults.

As summer comes to a close, readers are encouraged to explore these selections, ensuring a diverse and enriching reading experience. Those with personal favorites are welcome to share their recommendations by emailing [email protected].