KQED's Forum What’s on Your Summer Reading List?
Jun 27, 2025
Join bestselling novelist Jasmine Guillory, known for her romance novels like "Flirting Lessons," alongside bookstore experts Kar Johnson and Camden Avery. They dive into the ultimate summer reading list, sharing their favorite titles and discussing the latest literary trends. Expect recommendations for every type of reader, from heartwarming romances to thought-provoking essays. The trio emphasizes the joy of diverse voices in literature and the communal bonding that comes from sharing great books during the sunny season.
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Immersive Summer Read Experience
- Jasmine Guillory loved the book "Stop Me If You've Heard This One," about a lesbian clown in Florida.
- She found it funny and immersive, perfect for summer reading.
Authentic Trans Narratives Rise
- Book buyers see more trans and gender non-conforming people in literature who are messy and complicated.
- This shift reflects a demand for authentic, non-linear life stories instead of neat coming-out arcs.
Romance for Newly Divorced
- For a newly divorced reader, try "A Lot Like Amore" by Alexis Daria for a fresh start in romance.
- It features a woman exploring love again through a rebound fling with different dynamics.