The past year or so has been hit or miss when it comes to my book selections.

I get recommendations from any and every where: Instagram, Youtube (BookTube), blogs, word of mouth, what other people are silently reading at coffeeshops, anywhere. Lately, though, if a story doesn't catch me in the first couple chapters, I put it down and/or return it to my local library. As far as I'm concerned, reading a book is consumption of art, the same way walking through MoMA or going to a play is. It's supposed to grab your attention. When you're in a museum, you leisurely browse and walk past various pieces before one of them makes you stop and stare. With books, I'm always looking for something that makes me stop and stare, one that quickly makes an impression and all but swallows me whole by the end. Quite a big ask for a novel.

Below are the books that have recently evaded my DNF (did not finish) list. I'm sharing the goodness since summer is here, and I always love a good read during my summer travels.

There has always been something vividly appealing about the summer solstice.


It seems as though i'm late to this party.
© the active spirit. +