Written by Maria Allen
Photography and styling by Kate Rogan of Ellie Finn Photography
Summer is the perfect time to dive into a good book. We asked the staff at Buttonwood Books and Toys in Cohasset to share some of their personal recommendations. From beautiful children’s books to quintessential beach reads, this list has you covered.
During this challenging time, Buttonwood Books and Toys is offering contactless curbside pickup, home delivery and shipment of books, toys, gifts and cards. Send an email to [email protected] or leave a message at (781) 383-2665 and an employee will get right back to you. Purchases must be made by credit card, and free gift wrapping is available. For the most up-to-date information, visit buttonwoodbooksandtoys.com.
ADULT FICTION
The Book of Longings
by Sue Monk Kidd (Viking/Penguin)
“I loved this book of historical fiction which tells the story of Ana, the wife of Jesus, and sister of Judas. While there is certainly plenty of details of Jesus’ life and work, the focus is on the strong and intelligent Ana. For anyone who enjoyed “The Red Tent,” this is for you.”
— Mary Kay Burnett
All Adults Here
by Emma Straub (Riverhead Books)
“A great read about family relationships in small-town America in the 21st century.”
— Sarah Pease
Big Summer
by Jennifer Weiner (Atria Books)
“This book is about friendships and forgiveness set during a disastrous wedding on picturesque Cape Cod.
This is a great summer read!”
—- Lauren Koncius
Writers and Lovers
by Lily King (Grove Press)
An extraordinary new novel of art, love and ambition. “Hands down, one of my favorite reads of the year. The writing is exquisite.”
— Kathy Detwiler
Ask Again, Yes
by Mary Beth Keane (Scribner)
A novel about two neighboring families in a suburban town, the friendship between their children, a tragedy that reverberates over four decades, and the power of forgiveness.
“This book has wonderful characters. Great for fans of Ann Patchett.”
— Lauren Koncius
Untamed
by Glennon Doyle (The Dial Press)
“This book takes you by the shoulders and shakes you and tells you to trust yourself. In uncertain times and an uncertain world, it is definitely the message that I needed! A great read!”
— Jill Forester
YOUNG ADULT READS
Echo Mountain
by Lauren Wolk (Dutton Books for Young Readers)
“Rooted in the Great Depression and set in Maine, Echo Mountain imagines one family’s journey from a house in town to a build-your-own cabin on a mountain. It is a family survival story like “Little House on the Prairie”. Children who like strong female characters and history will enjoy this book unreservedly.”
— “Totsie” McGonagle
All America Muslim Girl
by Nadine Jolie Courtney (Farrar, Straus, and Giroux)
“A young girl decides to explore her Muslim faith and then must figure out her place in her “All-American” world. A timely and relevant read.”
— Kristine Jelstrom-Hamill
CHILDREN’S BOOKS
Summer Song
by Kevin Henkes (Greenwillow Books)
“Henkes captures the magic of summer with simple text and gorgeous pictures. Green grass and lawnmowers, cool shade and melting ice cream. A wonderful summer read to share.”
— Kristine Jelstrom-Hamill
Don’t Worry Little Crab
by Chris Haughton (Candlewick Press)
“The illustrations are bold and wonderful. This is the story of a little crab who wants to explore the wide ocean beyond his small tide pool, but he is scared! Sweet and encouraging.”
— Kathy Detwiler