The Seattle Public Library loves to promote books and reading. This column, submitted by the library, is a space to share reading and book trends from a librarian’s perspective. You can find these titles at the library by visiting spl.
org and searching the catalog. Ready for a new twist on the beach read? Although “beach read” often conjures up images of breezy romances or gripping thrillers, we would argue that the classic summer novel is less about the content and more about the experience: something you read only for pleasure and that immerses you entirely in the story. Here are four to consider, including a chilling horror debut, a near-future climate-themed fantasy, a memoir to be savored and a high-stakes Hollywood romance.
By our definition, a great beach read doesn’t need to be set in the summer, like Seattle author Jaq Evans’ queer horror debut, “What Grows in the Dark.” Brigit Weylan’s childhood trauma — her older sister died mysteriously in the woods — forever marked her as an outsider. As an adult, Brigit leans into this darkness, conducting paranormal investigations with her best friend Ian.
The two friends are drawn back to Brigit's hometown of Ellis Creek, Va., when a sheriff calls her in to help find out the fate of two teens who have disappeared in the same woods where Brigit’s sister was found. As leaves fall on Ellis Creek and mounting dread builds, Brigit and Ian explore the sinister presence in the woods, the possible connections bet.