As a kid, a summer reading list was kind of a drag for most of us. We didn't want a relaxing afternoon, getting lost in another world. We wanted to be swimming at the pool or exploring someone else's backyard or playing video games in the air conditioning with a big bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. But today, we're looking for a different kind of escape—one that's more contemplative and introspective. Here are the best books for your summer vacation, from large tomes fit for your coffee table to smart reads to tuck into a travel bag or pull out while you're lounging by the water.
For Your Coffee Table
For Your Coffee Table
Mark Seliger Photographs
You know Mark Seliger's work, even if you don't know the 59-year-old photographer's name. Working his way up from a lowly staff photographer at Rolling Stone, he's taken pictures of everyone from Kurt Cobain and Keith Richards to Kim Kardashian, and the results are always impactful images that stick with you. This oversized new book showcases his best-known portraiture, as well as never before seen outtakes and selections from his landscape and personal work, including portraits of Holocaust survivors and documentary photography of Cuba.
$75 / $43.79 at Amazon
Making LA Modern: Craig Ellwood
Craig Ellwood, a dashing man once called the "Cary Grant of architecture," was one of the most visible faces of California mid-century modernism back in the day. He was known as much for his exquisitely designed, minimalist structures as he was for his exuberant lifestyle. This vibrant photo book celebrates his work and will appeal to design junkies, architecture buffs, lovers of sleek modernism and interiors, as well as anyone interested in problem-solving and elegant solutions.
$65 / $43 at Amazon
LeRoy Grannis: Surf Photography
A re-edition of LeRoy Grannis's sold-out Collector's Edition, this collection gathers his most vibrant surf photography—from the perfect wave at San Onofre to dramatic wipeouts at Oahu's famed North Shore. One of the key image-makers in surfing history, Grannis also covers the emerging surf lifestyle, from "surfer stomps" and hordes of fans at surf contests to board-laden woody station wagons along California's famed Pacific Coast Highway.
$35 / $32.54 at Amazon
For Your Carry-On
For Your Carry-On
A Place for Us
A Place for Us
If you're looking for a winding tale to get lost in while traveling or trying to sleep at the hotel, this epic debut novel from Fatima Farheen begins at an Indian wedding, gathering a family back together, then spans decades and examines life through the eyes of each family member. The focus then shifts to Amar, the estranged son, and the secrets and betrayals which have caused this close-knit family to fracture.
$16.20 at Amazon
$16.20 at Amazon
#NeverAgain: A New Generation Draws the Line
#NeverAgain:
A New Generation Draws the Line
David and Lauren Hogg, two survivors of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida were part of the group of students who founded March for Our Lives. The siblings have also just written a book which is at once a manifesto for political change and a ringing endorsement for the power of activism and the importance of standing up for what you believe in all areas of your life.
$7.98 at Amazon
$7.98 at Amazon
Kitchen Confidential (Updated Edition)
Kitchen Confidential (Updated Edition)
If you haven't read Anthony Bourdain's legendary breakout memoir, now's the time. The wild-but-true stories recount a quarter-century of drugs, sex and cooking in the restaurant business. It's full of Bourdain's hilarious swagger, honest opinions and, at times, shocking admissions. This updated edition features additional insight along with never-before-published material and interviews.
$6.41 at Amazon
$6.41 at Amazon
For Your Beach Bag
For Your Beach Bag
Creative Quest
Creative Quest
In search of some inspiration while you check out for a while? Want to return to work invigorated and ready to tackle new challenges? Questlove—musician, bandleader, designer, producer, culinary entrepreneur, professor, and all-around cultural omnivore—shares his wisdom on the topics of inspiration and originality in a one-of-a-kind guide to living your best creative life. He also tackles the lessons he's learned from forefathers such as George Clinton, collaborators like D'Angelo and like-minded artists including Ava DuVernay.
$18.63 at Amazon
$18.63 at Amazon
The Parisian Field Guide to Men's Style
The Parisian Field Guide to Men's Style
The iconic French model Ines de la Fressange and fashion journalist Sophie Gachet have put together a handy guidebook to the City of Lights from a strictly stylish point of view. Chockfull of inspiration and essential tips on how to dress like the ultimate French gentleman, it also includes guidance on where to shop (and where to stop for a drink when you need a break).
$26.91 at Amazon
$26.91 at Amazon
The Mars Room
The Mars Room
This is the kind of page-turner you don't have to be embarrassed about gorging on while on vacation. Rachel Kushner's devastating third novel opens with women shackled inside a bus, shouting at each other as they travel in the middle of the night from one prison to another. The story is a gritty, gripping and brutal tale of a woman's life behind bars. It examines how your upbringing and bad decisions can result in devastating life changes. But the book's darkness is what makes it so great.
$16.20 at Amazon
$16.20 at Amazon
Planning on taking your summer reading outdoors?
Read up on some simple things you can do to relieve yourself from sweltering days.
Be sure to avoid these common sartorial pitfalls when the sun's shining.
Did you stay outside just a little too long? Consult these simple, dermatologist-recommended sunburn home remedies.
