3 Books That Capture the Power of Summer

Picked for you by King County Library System librarian Jenna Zarzycki, these three books shine a light on the transformative power of summer. Drop into a KCLS library near you or visit its website to browse books, attend events, access resources, and more.

‘When Mikan Road Was Ours: A Novel’ by D.K. Furutani

This debut draws readers into the history of one Japanese American family for a particularly resonant read. Murano has never felt more cut off from the rest of the world, struggling to handle his father’s death and his own cancer diagnosis under a sky choked with California wildfire smoke. When he inherits a draft of his late great uncle’s memoir, Murano reluctantly decides to read it. As he listens to the voices and experiences of his relatives in the 1930s and ’40s, Murano becomes determined to understand why his family fell apart and to find his own place within it. This is a rich, thoughtful story of identity and the strong effects of the past.

‘Just for the Season’ by Rachel Griffiths

Rachel Griffiths writes infectiously fun historical romances, and her latest is a particularly enjoyable example. After Charlotte Aveton gets embroiled in a scandal, the only way to save her besmirched reputation is through marriage. Luckily, Charlotte’s clever grandmother has the perfect plan. Their family will host a bevy of eligible bachelors at their luxurious estate for a summer house party. At the end of the festivities, Charlotte will pick her favorite contestant — er, attendee — and secure a proposal. Everything is sure to work out wonderfully — if only the alluring Duke of Warrick would stop interfering with their plans.

‘Make Nice’ by Ryan Effgen

Three siblings arrive at a cushy island resort prepared to celebrate their mother’s life and “make nice” just until the long weekend is over. Viv is reeling after deciding to separate from her husband and trying to parent her daughter, Ash. Science-minded Pete is thrilled with the possibility of a new species of snail, and idler Corey is focused on offloading some illicit substances on the first wealthy tourist he can find. Over the course of the weekend, all three grapple with long-held family secrets and revelations about themselves. This is a chatty, snarky story about imperfect families and the ways they can shape you.