What is a vacation without a book? Whether you’re lounging on a far-flung tropical island, curling up by the fire after a day on the slopes, or catching a tan by the pool, a juicy, unputdownable book (yes, that’s an actual phrase) makes all the difference. If you’ve read all the interesting articles in Plum Guide’s Journal, it probably comes as no surprise that we’re literary geniuses, as well as travel experts. We know our stuff when it comes to the written word, and have plenty of recommendations for books to take on holiday. Whatever genre you’re into, you’re bound to find your next favourite book in our expert guide to the best summer reads.
The Key To Happiness by Meik Wiking
An open book by the sand at a beach
In his role as Founder and CEO of the Happiness Research Institute, Meik Wiking understands happiness better than anyone. Drawing on case studies from the world’s happiest countries, Meik divides the book into the six building blocks of happiness - togetherness, money, health, kindness, trust, and freedom. Based on extensive research and hard evidence, this book is a practical guide to improving your happiness - a feel-good summer read.
Aeries Rising, Plum Guide home in London
On The Road by Jack Kerouac
Jack Kerouac’s legendary travel narrative is one of the best summer reads for your list. Few novels have had such an impact on American culture as On The Road, a classic novel of longing, freedom, and the open road. Based on the author’s adventures with Neal Cassady, the book tells the story of two friends on a cross country trip, diving into the world of jazz, sex, and illicit drugs in 1950s underground America.
All About Love by Bell Hooks
From renowned social activist and feminist icon Bell Hooks comes this book that will change the way you think about love. This book explores the role of love in our lives, from the cultural to the intimate, and guides readers toward a better understanding of how to cultivate it. Whether you’re familiar with Hooks’s life and work, or you’re just now discovering her, this is an essential read.
Danielle Darrieux, Plum Guide home in Paris, France
The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami
A book on a beach towel next to sunglasses at a sandy beach
Japan’s most highly regarded novelist is known for his beautiful yet haunting style, and this book is widely considered to be one of his best. Set in a Tokyo suburb, Toru Okada encounters a bizarre group of people on a search for his wife’s missing cat. This is an enchanting, dream-like mystery that tackles themes like romantic disappointment, the nature of consciousness, and the traumas of World War II.
A Cook’s Tour by Anthony Bourdain
In this book, the late but great chef Anthony Bourdain travels the world in search of the perfect meal. From live cobra in Saigon and a medieval pig slaughter feast in Portugal, to (less scary) oysters in France, Bourdain’s stories will leave you with a strong case of wanderlust, and a hungry belly (or in some chapters, indigestion). Brilliantly written with a sharp, honest, and sometimes dark sense of humour, this is the perfect read for those who love food and travel.
Running Up That Hill, Plum Guide home in Rome, Italy
The Kindness Method by Sharoo Izadi
If you’re feeling inspired to make a change in your life, this book is a great place to start. Behavioural Change Specialist Shahroo Izadi combines her professional training and personal experience in this insightful guide to treating yourself with the kindness you truly deserve. Full of techniques on how to map your habits, set your own goals, and strengthen your willpower, this book will leave you feeling empowered and ready to make a change.
Riding Out by Simon Parker
A book and a beach hat on a pebbly beach
In March 2020 at the start of the pandemic, Simon Parker’s life fell apart. This is the true story of how he decided to take on grief and anxiety the way he knew best - combining travel and exercise on a 3,500 mile bike journey around Britain. On the way, he meets resilient Britons who are also riding out the storm in their own little ways. This is an inspiring tale of optimism and hope, as both Britain and the author set off on a journey to mend themselves.
Raindrop Barn, Plum Guide home in The Cotswolds, England, UK
A House For Mr Biswas by V. S. Naipaul
Originally published in 1961, this book is one of V.S. Naipaul’s early masterpieces. Set in post-colonial Trinidad, this is the tale of Mr Biswas, who has spent his whole life striving for independence. On his quest to find a home for himself, he marries into the Tulsi family, whose family politics have a strong hold over him. This heart-rending novel is hilarious and at the same time deeply tragic, making for an entertaining summer read.
Think Like A White Man by Nels Abbey
Written in the persona of Boulé Whytelaw, the distinguished Professor of Modern White People Studies, this hugely entertaining book is a satirical guide on how to understand (and defeat) the white man in the corporate world. It’s an original, refreshing, and intellectual approach to discussing race, making many hard-hitting points while also being filled with laugh-out-loud moments.
Viva La Venice, Plum Guide home in Los Angeles, USA
Becoming by Michelle Obama
A closed book on a wooden swing at the beach
In this memoir, former First Lady Michelle Obama brings readers into her world by sharing the experiences that have shaped her. From her childhood in Chicago to life in the White House, her stories are told with honesty, wit, and humour. Sprinkled with warmth and wisdom, this is a deeply personal autobiography, which refuses to hold back on her triumphs and disappointments - both public and private.
The Kindness Of Strangers edited by Don George
If you’re seeking a feel-good read, this delightful collection of stories is just what you need. A combination of amateur and seasoned travel writers share their experiences on the road - and the unexpected kindness and generosity they encounter from strangers they meet on their travels. Set all around the world, these stories will leave you with a newfound faith in humanity, as well as a strong sense of wanderlust.
After Effects, Plum Guide home in Madrid, Spain
The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy by Douglas Adams
The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Galaxy is simply perfect for your next holiday. This hilarious tale follows Arthur Dent, who just about escapes the destruction of Earth by catching a ride on a spaceship with his alien best friend Ford Prefect. It's so good that this work of comic genius has been turned into a radio show, TV show, stage play, and comic book.
How To Pronounce Knife by Souvankham Thammavongsa
A mother and daughter harvest earthworms in the middle of the night, an ex-boxer turned nail salon worker falls for a pair of immaculate hands… this collection of stories captures the day-to-day lives of immigrants and refugees - and their hopes, dreams, disappointments, and desires to belong. The stories are poignant, delightful, and beautifully told through simple writing with a depth of feeling, making for hard-to-put-down holiday reads.
Vinyl Union, Plum Guide home in Berlin, Germany
The New Nomads by Felix Marquardt
A woman on a sun lounger reading a book in summer
Part memoir, part generational manifesto, The New Nomads is an insightful, intelligent, and alternative look into migration - and its global impact. In an age where the word migration has mixed connotations, this book explores how humans have always migrated, and how the future of humanity lies in re-embracing nomadism. Felix Marquardt delivers this in a witty, compelling, and engaging manner, leaving you with new and refreshing ways of viewing migration in the 21st century.
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
Not all summer reads have to be light and happy. This acclaimed dystopian novel may be chilling (and terrifyingly plausible), but you won’t be able to put it down. Taking place in the fictional totalitarian Republic of Gilead, it follows the story of Offred - a handmaid for the Commander and his wife. Although originally published in 1985, the book is as relevant today as ever, tackling issues related to power, gender, and religious politics.
Marine Whisper, Plum Guide home in Barbados
Butter Honey Pig Bread by Francesca Ekwuyasi
Francesca Ekwuyasi’s debut novel tells the story of three Nigerian women, Kambirinachi and her estranged daughters, as they work to repair their relationships with themselves and each other. Using food as a tool for self-exploration, family ties, and connections, this book portrays the bonds between mothers, daughters, and sisters, while skilfully weaving in ancient myths of the Igbo and Yoruba traditions.
