In summers past, I’d pull a beach towel out of the closet, grab my book and maybe some water, lay my towel in the grass of the backyard, and stretch out to read. Engrossed in legal thrillers, I’d spend hours reading. I’m happy to report that my list for this summer spans a range of genres, free of questionable novels about lawyers!
July may be well into the American summer season, but it’s not too late for a fresh book list. Last summer my “to be read” book pile stood several inches high; it was a tower of ambitious intentions. Once again this year, I have a pile of more books than I’ll probably read, but it’s fun to dream, right?
Whether you’re a mom or not, working or staying at home, single or married, read on. My summer book list for 2025 includes titles I’ve loved in various seasons of my life, from college days through this year. The books span genres: fiction, non-fiction, spiritual, and a few titles you might love reading aloud with any children in your life!
Thirteen Books for Summer 2025
Fiction
Sincerely, Stoneheart by Emily Wilson Hussem // Hussem writes for the modern woman, cleverly revealing the enemy’s tactics to distract and isolate women. Each letter I’ve read has been thought-provoking to the point of pricking my conscience to become a better me. Sincerely, Stoneheart is written in the style of C.S. Lewis’ Screwtape Letters, and does not disappoint for fans of Lewis. I think this would be great to share with a small group!
Hannah Coulter by Wendell Berry // A novel set in a fabled Kentucky town, Hannah Coulter reads like the memoir of an aged woman reflecting on learning to enjoy the life she had, while sprinkling bits of advice to the reader throughout. I listened to the audiobook version, which was like listening to Hannah tell me her story herself, as though she were a neighbor opening her heart to me, a younger mother and wife also feeling the heartaches of change and loss.
Peace Like a River by Leif Enger // Another novel which reads similar to a memoir, the main character of Peace Like a River retells the story of a tragic period in his family’s history, inviting the reader to “make of it what you will” (to quote the character) and consider the miracles in the midst of tragedy.
Non-Fiction
Letters of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity // Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity entered the Carmel in Dijon shortly after Saint Thérèse of Lisieux's death. Her letters to family and friends remain as a treasure for us to get to know the woman who found Heaven on earth, deep in her own soul. Or, read This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer to learn about Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity.
Reclaiming Quiet: Cultivating a Life of Holy Attention by Sarah Clarkson // Reclaiming Quiet is a book to read slowly, ponder, pray with, and put into practice. Even with full schedules and children clamoring for attention, Clarkson writes that creating space to hear God and enter more deeply into His peace is possible and worth the effort! Taking this summer to cultivate a life oriented more towards God could set an incredible foundation before the fall season ramps up with activity.
For the Spiritual Life
Confessions by Saint Augustine // I was in college in the early 2000s when I last read Confessions by Saint Augustine. Even if you’ve read Confessions in the past, now is a great time to reacquaint yourself with Saint Augustine. He is a powerhouse Saint, Doctor of the Church, and epic intercessor for those who’ve lost their way. And our new Pope Leo XIV is a member of the Augustinian order (which was founded in 1244 but uses the Rule of St. Augustine from the 400s). Read Confessions because it’s a Catholic classic, to know Saint Augustine, and to gain an understanding of the spirituality that captivated Pope Leo’s heart, forming him as a priest and servant of the Lord.
Abide In His Love: A Meditation on John by Susanna Spencer // Like the previous two Gospel studies from Blessed is She, this study breaks the Gospel of John into bite-sized sections to read and pray with in lectio divina or imaginative prayer style. It is divided into six sections, with introductory and concluding reflections and meditations for each chapter of the Gospel to help guide you as you enter more deeply into the Word with Saint John. This is a beautiful study to use for your personal prayer time or with a small group.
Lift Up Your Heart: A 10-Day Personal Retreat with St. Francis de Sales by Father John Burns // For anyone who has wanted to read Introduction to the Devout Life but struggled to begin or stick with the spiritual masterpiece by Saint Francis de Sales, this adaptation from Father Burns will be a welcome choice. Burns’ reflections draw the reader into prayer each day to encounter the truth of God’s love for us and the realities of the Four Last Things. The goal is to be moved by God’s love to renew our commitment to live entirely for Jesus. It’s a beautifully written book, which I plan to pray with again before the end of the summer.
Fun Reads With Family, Great for Road Trips
The Wilderking Trilogy by Jonathan Rogers // This series about an unlikely boy discovering his call to lead his people captivated my entire family. With echoes of the biblical David story, humor, and adventure, it’s high on our list of favorites. I highly recommend the audiobook for the narrator's sound effects and excellent voices.
Beneath the Swirling Sky by Carolyn Leiloglou // Fantasy, mystery, and adventure mix in this series about two children with the ability to travel through famous paintings. The third book in the series is set to be released this fall; it’s on my almost ten-year-old’s wish list.
The Penderwicks by Jeanne Birdsall // A series about four sisters’ adventures in friendship and new beginnings. Our family favorites are the first few books of the series.
For Fun
30-Minute Watercolor Painting for Beginners // For those looking to try a new hobby, this book has several 30-minute painting tutorials. I’m loving the step-by-step illustrations and instructions in this book.
For other book ideas, I often check the lists from the team at Read Aloud Revival, which are full of recommendations by age group, including lists for adults. May your summer reading, no matter how many books you finish, inspire you!
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